How to Make Traditional Italian Pasta Bolognese for Dinner
When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes are as beloved as Pasta Bolognese. This hearty, rich meat sauce is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. Follow this simple guide to create an authentic Italian Pasta Bolognese that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
To make a traditional Pasta Bolognese, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 400 grams of spaghetti or tagliatelle
- 300 grams ground beef
- 100 grams ground pork (optional for added flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 200 ml of red wine
- 400 grams of canned tomatoes (whole or crushed)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery (this combination is known as ‘soffritto’) and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef and pork to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through. This should take around 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Wine
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, pour in the red wine and let it simmer until it has almost evaporated, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add the canned tomatoes to the meat mixture, breaking them up with your spoon if using whole tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30-45 minutes. The longer you cook it, the richer the flavor will become. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly to the Bolognese sauce in the pan. Mix well, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
Step 8: Serve
Plate the Pasta Bolognese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic touch.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bolognese
- For a richer flavor, let the Bolognese sauce simmer longer, ideally up to 2 hours.
- Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for a traditional touch.
- Experiment with different types of pasta; while tagliatelle is traditional, pappardelle or rigatoni also work beautifully.
Making traditional Italian Pasta Bolognese is a labor of love that results in a comforting and delicious meal. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete dining experience!