Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a simmering Bolognese meat sauce wafting through your kitchen, promising a delicious and hearty meal. This classic Italian sauce is a time-honored favorite, perfect for drizzling over al dente pasta or layering in a lasagna. With rich flavors that develop over a slow cooking process, Bolognese meat sauce is a staple that every home cook should have in their repertoire.
**Bolognese Meat Sauce**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 bay leaf
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Saute for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the garlic and saute for another minute until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and pork. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
5. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, milk, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid slightly ajar and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
8. After 2 hours, check the consistency of the sauce. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a bit longer.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
10. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
11. Serve the Bolognese meat sauce over your favorite pasta, such as tagliatelle or spaghetti, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
This Bolognese meat sauce recipe is a labor of love that rewards you with a robust and flavorsome sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes. Don’t rush the cooking process; let the ingredients meld together slowly to create a truly satisfying sauce. Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for a quick and delicious meal on busy days. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this Bolognese meat sauce will be a surefire hit at your table.
