Spaghetti Bolognese

 

Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Bolognese Sauce:

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 large carrot, finely chopped

- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

- 1 lb (450g) ground beef

- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes

- 2 tbsp tomato paste

- 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)

- 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth

- 1 tsp dried oregano

- 1 tsp dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For the Spaghetti:

- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti

- Salt for boiling water

- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:

   - Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

   - Add the minced garlic, chopped carrot, and chopped celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   - Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned all over.

   - Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (if using). Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.

   - Add the beef or vegetable broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

   - Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.

   - Stir in the milk and let the sauce cook for another 10 minutes. This will add a nice richness to the sauce.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

   - While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   - Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

   - Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

3. Assemble the Dish:

   - Divide the cooked spaghetti among serving plates.

   - Top each plate of spaghetti with a generous portion of Bolognese sauce.

   - Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Serve:

   - Serve the spaghetti Bolognese immediately while hot. Enjoy this classic and comforting Italian dish!