Description
“Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
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Ingredients
400g spaghetti
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
400g ground beef
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Bolognese Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine:
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well-coated.
Serve:
Plate the spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Italian classic with every bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
For a truly authentic Bolognese, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your vegetables (onion, carrot, celery) are very finely chopped to create a smooth sauce base. In your large skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize it slightly. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Partially cover the skillet and let it cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The long, slow simmer is key for developing deep flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Bolognese sauce generously over the al dente spaghetti. For a traditional touch, toss the pasta with a small ladle of sauce in the pot first to coat it, then plate it with more sauce on top. Garnish with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a medium-bodied red like a Chianti or Sangiovese.
How-to Summary
To summarize: finely chop and sauté your vegetables, brown the beef, add tomato paste and liquids, then simmer the sauce slowly for 45+ minutes. Cook spaghetti separately until al dente, then combine and serve with Parmesan and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes. While spaghetti is classic, tagliatelle or pappardelle are traditional in Bologna as their wider shape holds the meat sauce better.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Absolutely. The sauce tastes even better the next day. Cool it completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for 3 months.
What can I use instead of beef broth? You can substitute with red wine for a richer flavor, or use a combination of water and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Is it okay to use fresh herbs? Yes. If using fresh oregano and basil, triple the amount (use 1 tablespoon each) and add them in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
How can I make a vegetarian version? Replace the ground beef with 200g of finely chopped mushrooms and 200g of cooked brown lentils for a hearty, meaty texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the Sauté: Do not rush cooking the onion, carrot, and celery. This “soffritto” is the flavor foundation.
- Short Simmer Time: Avoid simmering the sauce for only 20 minutes. A longer, slower cook melds the flavors and tenderizes the meat.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta to al dente. It will continue to soften when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Never stir Parmesan cheese directly into the simmering sauce, as it can become grainy. Only garnish the finished plates.
Conclusion
Mastering a Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is about patience and technique. By taking the time to build flavors slowly, you create a rich, comforting dish that far surpasses any quick version. This hearty sauce, clinging to perfectly cooked pasta, is a timeless meal that is sure to become a favorite in your home cooking repertoire. Buon appetito!