Bolognese sauce, or ragù alla bolognese, is a classic Italian meat sauce that is rich and flavorful. This homemade bolognese is made with ground beef and a blend of vegetables, creating a slow-cooked meat sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta.
This Italian dinner recipe is ideal for spaghetti bolognese or any pasta with meat sauce. The depth of flavor develops beautifully over time, making it a favorite for family meals and gatherings.
Understanding Bolognese Sauce
Bolognese sauce, known in Italy as ragù alla bolognese, is a staple in Italian cuisine. This classic Italian meat sauce is characterized by its rich and hearty texture, making it a perfect companion for various pasta dishes.
The foundation of a homemade bolognese lies in the careful selection of ingredients, particularly ground beef, which adds depth and flavor. When prepared correctly, this slow-cooked meat sauce transforms into a comforting meal that evokes the essence of traditional Italian cooking.
The Ingredients That Make It Authentic
To create an authentic bolognese, a blend of fresh vegetables is essential. Onions, carrots, and celery form the aromatic base, while garlic adds an extra layer of flavor.
Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste contribute to the sauce’s richness, while the addition of whole milk and white wine enhances its creaminess and complexity. This combination of ingredients is what sets a true ragù alla bolognese apart from other sauces.
Cooking Techniques for the Perfect Sauce
The preparation of bolognese sauce involves a series of steps that require patience and attention. Sautéing the vegetables until they are tender is crucial, as it builds the foundation of flavor.
Once the ground beef is added, browning it properly ensures that the sauce develops a robust taste. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a sauce that is both thick and meaty.
Pairing with Pasta
While bolognese sauce can be enjoyed with various types of pasta, spaghetti is the most popular choice. The long strands of al dente spaghetti provide the perfect vehicle for the rich sauce, allowing each bite to be filled with flavor.
When serving, a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of parsley not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful finishing touch to this classic Italian dish.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This hearty sauce is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can elevate the dish.
Moreover, experimenting with different types of meat, such as pork or veal, can yield unique variations of the traditional bolognese. Regardless of the choice, the essence of a homemade bolognese remains rooted in its authentic preparation and quality ingredients.
Why Bolognese is a Family Favorite
Bolognese sauce is more than just a meal; it represents comfort and tradition. Its ability to bring family and friends together around the dinner table makes it a cherished recipe in many households.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this Italian dinner recipe is sure to satisfy and impress, making it a timeless favorite for all occasions.
Traditional Italian Bolognese Sauce Recipe
This authentic bolognese sauce features ground beef simmered with onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 8-10 minutes).
- Incorporate Milk: Pour in the milk and simmer until it has mostly evaporated, stirring occasionally.
- Deglaze with Wine: Add the white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
- Slow Cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
