Bolognese Cannelloni

Cannelloni Bolognese - A Pasta Delight Covered in Love

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-45 minutes
Total time: 50-65 minutes
Servings: 4

Looking for a recipe that combines culinary tradition with exquisite taste? Cannelloni Bolognese is the perfect answer! This recipe will not only satisfy your pasta cravings but will also bring a touch of warmth to every meal. Our dish is ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g minced meat (mix of pork and beef)
- 8 pieces of cannelloni (you can use dry cannelloni)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 4 medium mushrooms, finely chopped
- 100 g sour cream
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 ball of mozzarella
- 1 glass (about 250 ml) tomato juice
- 1 glass (about 250 ml) semi-sweet white wine
- 50 g grated parmesan
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients are ready and within reach. The onion, carrot, and mushrooms will form the base of our rich sauce.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Then, add the grated carrot and mushrooms, continuing to sauté the mixture for another 5 minutes. This step will add a deep and sweet flavor to the dish.

3. Adding the meat: Add the minced meat to the skillet, stirring well to break it up. Cook until the meat is completely crumbled and well browned (about 5-7 minutes). It is important to stir constantly to avoid forming lumps.

4. The wine and tomato juice: Once the meat is cooked, pour in the semi-sweet white wine. Let it simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate. Then, add the tomato juice and seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian spices). Let the sauce simmer on low heat until the meat is well cooked and the sauce has reduced slightly (about 15-20 minutes).

5. Filling the cannelloni: In a heat-resistant dish, start filling each cannelloni with the meat and sauce mixture. You can use a small spoon or a piping bag to make this process easier. Place the filled cannelloni in a single layer in the dish.

6. Preparing the white sauce: Instead of using a traditional Bechamel sauce, mix the sour cream with the grated cheese. This mixture will provide a creamy and delicious flavor to the dish. Pour the sour cream sauce evenly over the cannelloni.

7. Adding mozzarella: Slice the mozzarella thinly and place it over the cannelloni. This will give a golden and delicious crust at the end.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 150-180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cannelloni for 30-45 minutes, depending on your oven. It is important to watch how the mozzarella browns, as each oven has its peculiarities.

9. Finishing the dish: At the end, when the cannelloni are nicely browned on top, take them out of the oven and sprinkle grated parmesan on top. This will add extra flavor and an appetizing look.

10. Serving: Let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before cutting them. Serve them hot, alongside a fresh salad or crunchy bread. A semi-sweet white wine pairs perfectly with this dish.

Tips and practical advice:

- Choosing the meat: A mix of minced pork and beef will provide a balanced flavor, but you can also use chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- The tomato sauce: Choose a quality tomato juice, preferably one without preservatives. You can also use canned tomatoes, which are just as tasty.
- Variations: If you want to add more vegetables, try including spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. These will bring extra color and nutrients.
- Freezing: This dish is excellent for freezing. Fill the cannelloni, place them in an airtight container, and freeze them. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw overnight and bake according to the instructions.

Nutritional benefits:
Cannelloni Bolognese is a rich source of protein due to the meat and dairy, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. It is also a hearty meal that provides energy for a busy day.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh cannelloni? Yes, if you have fresh cannelloni, the baking time can be reduced by about 10 minutes.

2. What other sauces can I use? You can replace the sour cream sauce with a cheese sauce or a more complex tomato sauce if you want a lighter option.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian? You can replace the meat with a mix of sautéed vegetables and ricotta cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

Now that you have the complete recipe for Cannelloni Bolognese, all that’s left is to start cooking! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table with loved ones. Bon appétit!