If you're craving a comforting and hearty meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy, look no further than this "Really Good Bolognese Sauce." With its rich flavors and aromatic ingredients, this classic dish is not just a recipe; it's an experience that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as you simmer this savory sauce to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Bolognese sauce is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your pasta night to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your vegetables: finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrot and celery into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and the onions turn translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook the meat until it's completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which will add depth to the sauce's flavor.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer slowly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Allow the sauce to cook for 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce reduce and thicken.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle, and optionally top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: Take the time to finely chop your vegetables and mince the garlic before you start cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy pot is ideal for this recipe as it distributes heat evenly and helps prevent burning.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. This step is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor in your sauce.
- Deglaze with Wine: When you add the red wine, be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful browned bits. This adds depth to your sauce.
- Low and Slow: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least an hour. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop and intensify.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in flavor!
- Serve with the Right Pasta: Traditional Bolognese pairs beautifully with tagliatelle or pappardelle, which hold the sauce well.
- Garnish for Flavor: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
