Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce, also known as ragù alla bolognese, is a classic Italian meat-based sauce that is typically served with pasta. It is a rich and flavorful sauce that has its roots in the city of Bologna, Italy. Bolognese sauce is characterized by its combination of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and seasonings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (a combination of beef and pork can also be used)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they become softened.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef to the empty space. Break up the meat with a spoon or spatula and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Once the meat is cooked, combine it with the sautéed vegetables in the pot.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, bay leaf, dried oregano, and dried basil to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the sauce cook for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the sauce simmers, the more flavorful it will become. You can simmer it for up to 4 hours if desired.
7. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked pasta of your choice, such as spaghetti, tagliatelle, or rigatoni. You can also use it as a sauce for lasagna or other pasta dishes.

Bolognese sauce is a versatile and hearty sauce that is loved by many. Its rich flavors and meaty texture make it a perfect accompaniment to pasta dishes. Enjoy the Bolognese sauce with your favorite pasta and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch.