how to make spaghetti bolognese with mince

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese with Mince

Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty and beloved dish originating from Italy, known for its rich and flavorful meat sauce served over pasta. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious Spaghetti Bolognese using ground beef (mince) that you and your family will love.

Ingredients

To make a classic Spaghetti Bolognese, gather the following ingredients

- For the Bolognese Sauce - 400g (14 oz) ground beef (mince) - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely chopped - 1 celery stick, finely chopped - 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 150ml (5 oz) red wine (optional) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil

- For the Pasta - 300g (10.5 oz) spaghetti - Salt, for water

- To Serve - Grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are chopped and measured. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery (this mix is often referred to as a mirepoix). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the Mince

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart. Cook until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato paste, canned chopped tomatoes, and (if using) the red wine. Add the dried oregano and basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the Bolognese sauce simmer uncovered for at least 20-30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or stock.

6. Cook the Spaghetti

While the 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. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the spaghetti is drained, add it directly to the pan with the Bolognese sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

8. Serve and Enjoy

To serve, dish up the Bolognese pasta onto plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil leaves if desired. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Making Spaghetti Bolognese with mince is not only a comforting and fulfilling choice for dinner; it’s also a wonderful dish to share with family and friends. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and flavors according to your taste. Whether you prefer extra vegetables, a different type of meat, or even a vegetarian version, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy your culinary creation!