Delicious Tomato-Based Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe for Authentic Italian Flavor

Tomato Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe A Classic Italian Dish

Spaghetti Bolognese is one of the most beloved pasta dishes around the world, offering a rich, hearty flavor that is hard to resist. The combination of tender spaghetti intertwined with a savory meat sauce makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. Whether you are cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this Tomato Spaghetti Bolognese recipe will surely impress. Let's dive into the details of how to prepare this delightful dish from scratch.

Ingredients

To serve four people, you'll need the following ingredients

- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti - 300g (10.5 oz) ground beef or pork (or a mix of both) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 medium carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 100ml (3.4 oz) red wine (optional) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Olive oil - Salt and pepper, to taste - Fresh basil and grated parmesan, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the Meat Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or pork. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

4. Incorporate the Tomatoes Once the meat is nicely browned, add the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste into the skillet. Stir to combine. If you're using red wine, pour it in now and allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates.

5. Season the Sauce Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

6. Combine with Spaghetti Once the sauce is ready, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the spaghetti is nicely coated with the rich sauce.

7. Serve Divide the spaghetti Bolognese among plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of grated parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Tips for Success

- For a healthier version, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken. - Nutritional yeast can be an excellent substitute for cheese for a vegan option. - Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra vegetables. - The sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to three days, or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Tomato Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is not just a meal; it's a comforting experience that brings together flavors and aromas reminiscent of traditional Italian cooking. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to Italy right from your kitchen! Enjoy your cooking!