Spaghetti bolognese

spaghetti_bolognese

Spaghetti bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has become a beloved staple in many households across the world. Made up of a delicious meat sauce served over al dente spaghetti noodles, it’s a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. There are many different variations of the recipe, but the best ones are always made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

The origins of spaghetti bolognese are somewhat difficult to trace. Some believe that it was first created in Bologna, Italy, where a similar dish is still served today. However, others believe that it was brought to Italy by French chefs who were working there in the late 18th century. Whatever its origin, one thing is certain: spaghetti bolognese is a dish that has stood the test of time.

The key to a great spaghetti bolognese is the sauce. It should be rich, meaty, and full of flavor. The meat used in the sauce can vary, but most traditional recipes call for ground beef. However, some recipes use a combination of beef, pork, and even veal to give the sauce a more complex flavor.

To make the sauce, start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and then add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes, or until they begin to soften. Then add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and no longer pink. Next, add a can of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything together and then add a bay leaf, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least an hour, or until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente, which means that it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the cooked spaghetti and then toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

To serve, ladle the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Some people like to garnish their spaghetti bolognese with fresh basil or parsley, but this is optional.

Spaghetti bolognese is a versatile dish that can be made in advance and reheated for leftovers. It’s also great for feeding a crowd, as it can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate a larger group. And, of course, it’s a great comfort food on a chilly evening. So why not give this classic dish a try and see how it becomes a family favorite in your household?

Ingredients:

  • 500g spaghetti
  • 500g minced beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree
  • 400g canned tomatoes
  • 1 beef stock cube
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute.

  3. Add the minced beef to the pan and cook until it has browned, stirring occasionally.

  4. Crumble the beef stock cube into the pan and stir to combine.

  5. Add the tomato puree, canned tomatoes and sugar to the pan. Stir to combine.

  6. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for around 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

  7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Serve the spaghetti topped with the bolognese sauce and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).

Enjoy your delicious English Spaghetti Bolognese!