Bolognese sauce, or ragù alla Bolognese, is a hearty Italian meat sauce that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Originating from Bologna, this dish features a rich blend of flavors, including slow-cooked meats, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect over pasta, it’s a timeless recipe that every home cook should master. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this classic sauce that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 400g ground beef
- 200g ground pork
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1.5 hours.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in ground beef and pork; cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the red wine; let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Season with salt and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- After an hour, add milk and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Serving and Pairings
Bolognese sauce pairs beautifully with tagliatelle, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. This sauce also freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat; it adds depth of flavor.
- Avoid adding too much liquid; it should be thick and hearty.
- Don’t skip the simmering time; it enhances the sauce’s flavor.
- Ensure to season incrementally for better taste control.
- Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Let the sauce sit for a few hours or overnight for richer taste.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
FAQs
Can I make Bolognese sauce in advance?
Yes, Bolognese sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors deepen and improve when allowed to sit overnight.
Is there a vegetarian version of Bolognese sauce?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
What pasta is best for Bolognese sauce?
Traditionally, Bolognese sauce is served with tagliatelle, but it also pairs well with fettuccine, pappardelle, or spaghetti.
How long can I store Bolognese sauce?
Stored in an airtight container, Bolognese sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are often preferred for Bolognese sauce as they provide a rich and consistent flavor, making them an excellent choice.
Conclusion
Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its rich, meaty sauce and versatility, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served over pasta or used in lasagna, this recipe is a must-try for all cooking enthusiasts.
Bolognese Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 carrot finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 400 g ground beef
- 200 g ground pork
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in ground beef and pork; cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the red wine; let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Season with salt and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- After an hour, add milk and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutrition
