If you’re looking to make a hearty meal that’s both easy and delicious, you can’t go wrong with Spaghetti Bolognese.
It’s a classic dish that’s loved by many, and I’m here to guide you through making it from scratch.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and the fact that it uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
I’ll break down each step, making sure you understand everything, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll be able to whip up this comforting meal with confidence.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress your friends without too much hassle.
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe serves four people.
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 500g lean beef mince
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 stick of celery, finely chopped
- 1 can (410g) of chopped tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of sugar to balance acidity
For Serving:
- 400g spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Equipment:
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Colander for draining spaghetti
Method:
Preparing the Bolognese Sauce:
Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables:
Stir in the grated carrot and chopped celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
Brown the Mince:
Increase the heat slightly and add the beef mince to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking up any lumps with your wooden spoon.
Incorporate Tomatoes:
Mix in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, blending them well with the mince.
Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef stock and sprinkle in the oregano or mixed herbs. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
Simmer:
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavours meld together.
Cooking the Spaghetti:
Boil Water:
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavour.
Cook Spaghetti:
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
Drain:
Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander.
Serving:
Plate the Dish:
Place a portion of spaghetti on each plate.
Top with Sauce:
Spoon the Bolognese sauce generously over the spaghetti.
Add Cheese and Herbs:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve:
Serve hot, allowing each person to add more cheese or seasoning according to their taste.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavour.
- Simmering: Allow the sauce to simmer properly for a rich, developed taste.
- Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to add to the sauce if it’s too thick.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your taste preferences.
Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, hearty dish that brings people together.
Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch to make the dish uniquely yours.
Buon appetito!