Simple Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce Recipe for a Delicious Family Meal

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce A Classic Comfort Food

When it comes to comforting meals, few dishes can rival a classic spaghetti Bolognese. This beloved Italian sauce, rich in flavors and simplicity, has become a staple in many households worldwide. Its heartwarming aroma wafting through the kitchen evokes memories of family gatherings, laughter, and shared meals. In this article, we will explore how to create an easy spaghetti Bolognese sauce that is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

- 400g (14 oz) minced beef or turkey - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 100ml (3.4 fl oz) red wine (optional) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for cooking - 400g (14 oz) spaghetti - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Preparing the Sauce

1. Sauté the Vegetables Start by heating a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. This mix, known as mirepoix, lays the essential flavor foundation for your Bolognese sauce.

2. Add Garlic and Meat Once the vegetables are ready, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the minced beef or turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned all over. This step intensifies the flavor of the sauce and gives it a rich, hearty base.

3. Incorporate the Tomatoes After browning the meat, it's time to enrich the sauce with tomatoes. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and add the tomato paste. If you’re using red wine, pour it in now, allowing it to reduce and meld with the other ingredients. This is optional but adds a depth of flavor that is often associated with traditional Bolognese sauce.

4. Season and Simmer Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and blend beautifully. This leisurely cooking time is crucial for a rich sauce, so resist the temptation to rush it.

5. Cook the Spaghetti While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

Serving the Dish

Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, you can either toss it directly with the sauce or serve the sauce on top of the spaghetti. If desired, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to the sauce to achieve your preferred consistency. Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil for an aromatic touch.

Conclusion

This easy spaghetti Bolognese sauce recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It demonstrates that with just a few simple ingredients and steps, anyone can create a delightful meal that pleases both the palate and the soul. Whether you're cooking for family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a comforting plate of spaghetti Bolognese!