easy spaghetti bolognese sauce

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless dish that has won the hearts and taste buds of many around the globe. It is a traditional Italian recipe that has been adapted and simplified over time, making it easy to prepare for families or a quick dinner during a busy weeknight. With a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious Bolognese sauce that will impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

To create an easy Spaghetti Bolognese sauce, you will need the following ingredients

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 carrot, finely chopped - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped - 500g (1 lb) of ground beef or a mix of beef and pork - 1 can (400g) of chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons of tomato paste - 1 teaspoon of dried oregano - 1 teaspoon of dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 400g (14 oz) of spaghetti - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional) - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1. Prepare the Vegetables Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. This combination of veggies, known as 'soffritto,' forms the flavor base of your sauce.

2. Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped carrot, and celery. Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.

3. Brown the Meat Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or your chosen meat mixture) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart and stir it into the vegetable mix. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

4. Add the Tomatoes Once the meat is browned, stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the dried oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process enhances the flavors and gives the sauce a rich texture.

5. Cook the Spaghetti While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and reserve a small cup of pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce's consistency later.

6. Combine and Serve Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If the sauce is too thick, you can stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, allowing the pasta to be fully coated.

7. Garnish and Enjoy Serve the spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with a side salad and a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Making an easy Spaghetti Bolognese sauce is a straightforward process that brings robust flavors to your dinner table. This dish not only offers comfort but also allows for creativity; you can customize it with different meats or vegetables according to your preference. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or entertaining friends, this Bolognese sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delightful taste of this classic Italian dish!