how to make spaghetti bolognese with mince

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Mince

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has found its way into the hearts and homes of millions around the world. This hearty meal combines rich flavors with comforting textures and is relatively easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to create an exquisite Spaghetti Bolognese using minced meat.

Ingredients

To serve approximately four people, gather the following ingredients

- 300g spaghetti - 400g minced beef or a mixture of beef and pork - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 large carrot, finely chopped - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped - 400g canned chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 150ml beef stock - Olive oil - Salt and pepper, to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients Start by prepping your veggies. Chop the onion, carrot, and celery finely. This mix of vegetables, known as soffritto, forms the flavor base of your sauce.

2. Cook the Vegetables In a large skillet or saucepan, heat about two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Minced Meat Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced meat to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the meat evenly for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring that it is no longer pink.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings Once the meat is browned, stir in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Pour in the beef stock, mixing well to combine all the ingredients.

5. Simmer the Sauce Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook uncovered for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For a richer flavor, you can simmer it for up to an hour, stirring occasionally and adding a little more stock if it becomes too thick.

6. Cook the Spaghetti About 10 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

7. Combine and Serve Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the Bolognese sauce and toss well to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

8. Taste and Adjust Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little more salt, pepper, or herbs can make a big difference.

9. Plate and Garnish Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese in bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves for a touch of freshness.

Conclusion

Making Spaghetti Bolognese with mince is a straightforward and rewarding process that brings the comforting taste of Italian cuisine to your table. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its flavor but also in its adaptability; you can modify the recipe by adding more vegetables or even incorporating different types of minced meat. With this guide, you should feel confident to prepare this beloved dish and share it with family and friends. Bon appétit!