How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Mince
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has won hearts and taste buds all around the world. This savory and hearty pasta dish is especially popular for its rich flavors and comforting textures. In this article, I will guide you through making a delicious Spaghetti Bolognese using minced meat. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be able to impress family and friends with your culinary skills.
Ingredients
To prepare Spaghetti Bolognese, you will need the following ingredients
- 300g minced beef (or a mixture of beef and pork) - 300g spaghetti - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 400g can of chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 150ml beef stock - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for cooking - Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) - Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients Start by gathering all your ingredients. Finely chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery will help them cook evenly and enhance the flavors of the dish.
2. Cook the Vegetables In a large skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Brown the Mince Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced meat to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and evenly distribute it among the vegetables. Cook until the meat is browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the flavor of the Bolognese.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning Once the meat is fully cooked, stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well until everything is combined. Add the beef stock, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer the Sauce Cover the skillet and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, allowing it to cook for up to an hour will deepen the flavors even more. Stir occasionally and check if additional liquid is needed; you can add a splash of water or stock if the sauce gets too thick.
6. Cook the Spaghetti About 10 minutes before the sauce is ready, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce When the Bolognese sauce is ready, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. You can either serve the sauce over the spaghetti or combine them together in the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
8. Serve Plate the Spaghetti Bolognese, and finish it off with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For added color and freshness, garnish with a few fresh basil leaves.
Tips for the Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese
- Ingredient Quality Use good-quality minced meat for the best flavor. If possible, grind your own meat for a fresher taste. - Variations Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce for extra flavor. - Wine For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine before the chopped tomatoes. - Storing Leftover Bolognese can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
In conclusion, making Spaghetti Bolognese with mince is not only easy but also a rewarding experience. With its rich flavors and delightful aroma, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to serve it with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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