easy spaghetti bolognese sauce

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce A Classic Italian Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the heartwarming appeal of spaghetti Bolognese. This rich and savory sauce has become a staple in kitchens around the world. Traditionally hailing from Italy, Bolognese sauce, or 'ragù alla Bolognese,' as it is known in its homeland, is not only beloved for its taste but also for its versatility. Whether served over spaghetti, lasagna, or even enjoyed on its own, Bolognese sauce offers a delightful culinary experience that is both simple to prepare and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

To make an easy spaghetti Bolognese sauce, you will need a handful of basic ingredients that are readily available and affordable. Here’s what you’ll need

- 400g (14 oz) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 medium carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Olive oil - Salt and pepper, to taste - 300g (10.5 oz) spaghetti - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparation Steps

Creating a delicious Bolognese sauce can be surprisingly quick and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you nail this classic dish

1. Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

2. Brown the Meat Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and has lost its pink color, about 8-10 minutes. This step enhances the sauce's flavor, so be sure not to rush it.

3. Add the Tomatoes Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. The tomato paste will add depth and richness to the sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Season the Sauce Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. At this stage, if you desire a hint of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of sugar, especially if the tomatoes are too acidic.

5. Simmer the Sauce Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will meld and develop. If you have time, let it simmer for up to an hour for even better results.

6. Cook the Spaghetti About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and reserve a little pasta water.

7. Combine and Serve If desired, mix the spaghetti directly into the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed for moisture. Alternatively, you can serve the sauce over the spaghetti. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Bolognese

1. Quality Ingredients Using fresh and high-quality ingredients will elevate your dish significantly. Opt for fresh tomatoes in season or a good brand of canned tomatoes.

2. Meat Variations You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use lentils for a vegetarian version.

3. Herbs Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor, but remember to adjust the quantity as fresh herbs are more potent.

4. Make Ahead Bolognese sauce actually tastes better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for an easy meal later on.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Bolognese is an iconic dish that celebrates the goodness of simple ingredients brought together with love. Its easy preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you just want to indulge in a hearty meal at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to please the whole family. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a plate of this delicious Italian comfort food!