Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe
Bolognese Recipe
Introduction
Bolognese is a classic Italian sauce known for its rich flavor and hearty texture. It is a beloved dish that many families enjoy on special occasions or as a comforting weeknight meal. With its savory combination of meat and tomatoes, Bolognese sauce serves as a perfect topping for pasta, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Bolognese recipe because it’s simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to develop beautifully, giving the sauce a depth that is hard to resist. Moreover, it’s a great way to use everyday ingredients to create something special. Once you master this recipe, you can impress family and friends with your cooking skills!
How to Make Bolognese
Making Bolognese is quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create this delightful sauce:
Ingredients:
- 4 Tbsp butter, divided ($0.56)
- 1 medium onion, diced ($0.70)
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided ($0.01)
- 2 stalks celery, diced ($0.20)
- 1 large carrot, diced ($0.11)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ($0.08)
- 1 lb ground beef, 80/20 ($4.98)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.01)
- 1 cup milk ($0.18)
- 1 cup wine (red or white) ($1.14)
- 1 28oz can crushed tomatoes ($1.69)
Directions:
- Place a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. When the butter foams, add the diced onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Next, add the diced celery and carrot. Sauté for about two minutes until they soften a bit.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which will take about 1 minute.
- Now add the ground beef and freshly cracked black pepper. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is brown, add the milk, wine, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir occasionally and simmer until the liquid has evaporated completely, which usually takes about 30 minutes.
- After the liquid has reduced, add the crushed tomatoes. Mix everything until well incorporated. Lower the heat as soon as the tomatoes start to simmer.
- Cook the sauce uncovered for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally. If the sauce starts to dry out, stir in a half cup of water. Lastly, taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
How to Serve Bolognese
Bolognese is typically served over a bed of pasta, like tagliatelle or spaghetti. Top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
How to Store Bolognese
To store leftover Bolognese sauce, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Bolognese sauce freezes well and can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Bolognese
- For a richer taste, use 100% beef or a mix of beef and pork.
- Don’t rush the cooking. Allowing the sauce to simmer for an extended time enhances its flavor.
- Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves for additional aroma.
Variation
You can create a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, which also provide a hearty texture. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based Bolognese.
FAQs
1. Can I make Bolognese ahead of time?
Yes, Bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day! You can definitely make it a day in advance.
2. What kind of pasta goes best with Bolognese?
Wide pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle is perfect, but you can also use spaghetti if you prefer.
3. Can I freeze Bolognese sauce?
Absolutely! Bolognese sauce freezes well. Store it in an airtight container, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Enjoy making this classic Bolognese recipe, and savor the warm, comforting flavors it brings to your table!
Bolognese Sauce
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp butter, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, 80/20
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup wine (red or white)
- 1 28oz can crushed tomatoes
Instructions
Preparation
- Place a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. When the butter foams, add the diced onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the diced celery and carrot. Sauté for about two minutes until they soften a bit.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which will take about 1 minute.
Cooking
- Add the ground beef and freshly cracked black pepper. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is brown, add the milk, wine, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir occasionally and simmer until the liquid has evaporated completely, which usually takes about 30 minutes.
- After the liquid has reduced, add the crushed tomatoes. Mix everything until well incorporated. Lower the heat as soon as the tomatoes start to simmer.
- Cook the sauce uncovered for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally. If the sauce starts to dry out, stir in a half cup of water. Lastly, taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
