Spaghetti Bolognese is indeed a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group of loved ones, this classic Italian pasta dish is sure to please.
A hearty bowl of love-filled spaghetti bolognese
Homemade spaghetti bolognese is a classic comfort food that’s more than just a meal; it’s a labor of love. The rich flavors that develop as the sauce simmers to perfection are a testament to the care and joy put into its preparation. Bolognese is indeed a dish that nurtures both body and soul, and sharing it is an act of love and nourishment. Your description captures the essence of this beloved pasta dish beautifully, making it even more enticing for those who savor it. Cooking with care and joy truly transforms a meal into a heartwarming experience.
Starting with the Best Sauce, Make the Best Bolognese
Bolognese sauce is indeed a savory masterpiece, characterized by its slow-simmered blend of meat and flavorful ingredients. While ground beef is the traditional choice, some recipes incorporate a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal to enhance the depth of flavor. Pancetta, a savory Italian bacon, adds a delightful touch of richness to the sauce. The combination of onion, celery, and carrot, often referred to as a mirepoix, contributes to the sauce’s aromatic base. Garlic, white wine, tomatoes, and a hint of milk or cream complete this harmonious symphony of tastes. Your version, featuring ground beef, pancetta, and a velvety cream finish, undoubtedly adds a unique and delicious twist to this beloved Italian classic.
Ingredients:
• Olive oil
• 4 ounces pancetta, diced finely
• 1 small onion, diced finely
• 1 large carrot, diced finely
• 1 large rib celery, diced finely
• Salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 8 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 10 ounces uncooked spaghetti
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to serve on side
Preparation:
Here’s a condensed version of your spaghetti bolognese recipe:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta and cook until golden (about 3 minutes).
- Add diced onion, carrot, and celery with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until veggies are soft and golden (6-7 minutes).
- Crumble in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess liquid.
- Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and tomato paste. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer covered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, keep warm.
- Turn off heat, stir in heavy cream and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add warm spaghetti to the sauce, toss to combine.
- Serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Tips & Tidbits for Bolognese:
Here’s a concise version of the ingredient options for your spaghetti bolognese:
- Ground beef: You can use lean, organic ground beef (85/15), or try a combination of ground beef, ground pork, or ground beef with equal portions of pork and veal, or even substitute sausage.
- Pancetta (optional): A small amount of diced pancetta adds extra flavor, but you can omit it if desired.
- Dry white wine: Traditionally used, but you can also substitute red wine or omit it.
- Spaghetti or other pasta: While spaghetti is classic, you can use pappardelle or other broad pasta.
- Milk or cream: Milk is traditional, but you can use cream for a richer flavor, or double the milk quantity if preferred.
