Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italy with Marta's Rustic Pork Beef Ragu, a dish that promises to transport you straight to a cozy trattoria! This savory ragu, brimming with tender ground pork and beef, simmered to perfection in rich red wine and tomatoes, is not just a meal—it's an experience. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a bit of patience, you can create a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g ground pork
- 300g ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Next, add the ground pork and ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the meat until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the meat is browned, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Pour in 1 cup of red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
- Add the canned tomatoes to the pot, including their juices. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the ragu simmer for about
- 5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will develop rich flavors.
- After the cooking time, taste the ragu and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Once the ragu is ready, serve it hot over your choice of pasta or polenta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
- Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Marta's Rustic Pork Beef Ragu with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince your garlic in advance. This way, you can focus on cooking without interruptions.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ground pork and beef for the best flavor. Fresh tomatoes or a good brand of canned tomatoes can make a significant difference in taste.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the meat. This step adds depth and richness to your ragu, so let it caramelize a bit for maximum flavor.
- Wine Matters: Use a red wine that you enjoy drinking. The flavor of the wine will infuse into the sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the ragu to simmer gently for at least
- 5 hours. This slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your ragu before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to elevate the flavors.
- Serve with Love: Pair your ragu with freshly cooked pasta or creamy polenta, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and aroma.
- Leftovers are Gold: This ragu tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
