easy spaghetti bolognese

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese A Comforting Classic

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of many around the globe. Originating from the Italian city of Bologna, this exquisitely rich sauce is traditionally served with tagliatelle, but for many, the comfort of spaghetti is simply unbeatable. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a hearty meal that warms the soul. In this article, we will explore the steps to create an easy Spaghetti Bolognese that you can whip up on a busy weeknight or impress your friends during a dinner party.

Ingredients You Will Need

- 400g of spaghetti - 1 tablespoon of olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 carrot, diced - 1 celery stick, diced - 500g of minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork) - 400g of canned chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons of tomato paste - 1 teaspoon of dried oregano - 1 teaspoon of dried basil - A splash of red wine (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional) - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients Start by chopping the onion, carrot, and celery. Having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.

2. Cook the Vegetables In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the diced carrot and celery and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

3. Add the Meat Increase the heat slightly and add the minced beef to the pan. Stir the meat, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it until browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to your sauce.

4. Deglaze the Pan If you're using red wine, pour a splash into the pan. Stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the alcohol evaporates.

5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings Once the meat is browned, add the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil to the pan. Stir everything together, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for at least 15-20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will develop.

6. Cook the Spaghetti While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.

7. Combine and Serve Toss the drained spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce in the pan. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve the spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

This easy Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a perfect introduction to Italian cooking, making it accessible for chefs of all skill levels. Packed with flavor and wonderfully satisfying, it’s no wonder this dish is a family favorite. Whether you're enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it at a gathering, your guests are sure to be delighted. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy this comforting classic!