Spaghetti Bolognese by Ana

Spaghetti Bolognese a la Ana: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share my personalized Spaghetti Bolognese recipe, which combines tradition with delicious ingredients to create a dish that will delight everyone's taste buds. This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. Let's get started!

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g whole wheat spaghetti (for a healthier option)
- 100 g minced beef (choose quality meat for better flavor)
- 6-7 mushrooms (champignon mushrooms are the most suitable)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium carrot (grated)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for a flavorful taste)
- 1 vegetable cube (for added flavor)
- 5-6 slices of chorizo sausage (this will bring a spicy and intense flavor)
- 1 can of tomatoes in juice (choose quality tomatoes for a rich sauce)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for frying)

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by slicing the chorizo into thin slices, then cut each slice in half. This will help release the flavors during frying. Finely chop the onion, and grate the carrot. Cut the mushrooms into quarters to ensure even cooking.

2. Frying the ingredients
In a deep pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo slices and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Then, add the onion and carrot, stirring frequently. After a few minutes, add the mushrooms and continue frying until all the vegetables are soft.

3. Adding the meat
Now it's time to add the minced meat. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Let it cook together for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is well cooked through.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a separate bowl, strain the tomatoes to remove the seeds and obtain a smooth paste. Add the tomato paste to the pan over the meat and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper and add the vegetable cube. Season with crushed garlic using the flat side of a knife. Cover the pan with a lid and let the sauce simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Boiling the pasta
While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Choose whole wheat spaghetti for added nutrients. Once they are ready, drain the water and mix them in the pan with the sauce just before turning off the heat. This step allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce's flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve Spaghetti Bolognese with a fresh salad made of tomatoes, lettuce, cucumber, and a few slices of olives. Add crumbled feta cheese on top and drizzle with a little lemon juice for a refreshing taste. These combinations not only enhance the plate's appearance but also provide a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.

Notes and Tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enrich the sauce. Additionally, a splash of red wine during the sauce preparation can add a sophisticated touch.
- Thickening the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer without a lid so that the liquid reduces.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of Spaghetti Bolognese has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, thanks to the vegetables and whole wheat pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace the minced beef?
Yes, you can use chicken or turkey meat, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

2. How can I store the sauce for later?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later use.

3. What drinks go well with this recipe?
A dry red wine or a tomato juice with lemon are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this Spaghetti Bolognese a la Ana recipe! It is simple, tasty, and full of flavors. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt it to your taste. Every meal is an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!