Italian Bolognese Sauce with Spaghetti

Italian Bolognese Sauce with Spaghetti

Introduction

Italian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful sauces, and one of the most beloved is Bolognese sauce. This classic Italian sauce is a meat-based sauce that is traditionally served with spaghetti. The combination of tender ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs creates a sauce that is both hearty and delicious. In this article, we will explore the history of Bolognese sauce, its key ingredients, and provide you with a step-by-step recipe to recreate this iconic Italian dish in your own kitchen.

The History of Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce, also known as ragù alla Bolognese, originated in the city of Bologna in Northern Italy. The sauce has a long history, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the late 18th century. Originally, Bolognese sauce was made with a mixture of ground beef, pancetta, onions, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and wine. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and variations may include additional ingredients such as milk or cream.

Key Ingredients

To make a delicious Bolognese sauce, you will need the following key ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 ounces pancetta, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe

Follow these steps to create a delicious Italian Bolognese sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove the pancetta from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same saucepan, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the saucepan. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Return the cooked pancetta to the saucepan and stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the whole milk to add richness to the sauce.
7. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
8. Once the sauce is ready, serve it over the cooked spaghetti. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Conclusion

Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it is the perfect sauce to enjoy with a plate of spaghetti. By following this recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste of Italy in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Bolognese sauce with spaghetti!