Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe: An Irresistible Delight

If you are looking for a pasta recipe that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, then spaghetti Bolognese is the perfect choice. This classic Italian dish combines the rich flavors of meat sauce with the silky texture of spaghetti, creating a meal that will win over any table. Additionally, it is an excellent option for a family dinner or a night with friends.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g ground beef (for a more complex flavor, you can use a mix of beef and pork)
- 250 ml tomato sauce (optional, you can also use fresh crushed tomatoes)
- 1 glass of white wine (preferably semi-sweet or sweet to avoid too much acidity)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 small carrot, grated (optional, but adds sweetness and nutrients)
- 100 g grated cheese or Parmesan
- Salt, pepper
- Spaghetti (about 250 g)
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
- Chilli (optional, for a bit of spice)

Necessary Utensils:
- A large pot for pasta
- A deep frying pan
- A knife and a chopping board
- A spatula
- A colander

Step by Step to Prepare Spaghetti Bolognese:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. If you want to add the carrot, grate it and set it aside. These ingredients will form the flavorful base of the sauce.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep frying pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a small piece of butter. Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.

3. Adding the meat: Add the ground beef to the pan, stirring to break it up. Cook until it is evenly browned, being careful not to overcook it to avoid drying it out. Season with salt, pepper, and if desired, a bit of chilli for a spicy taste.

4. Deglazing with wine: Once the meat is well cooked, pour in the glass of white wine. This step will not only add a deep flavor to the sauce but will also help lift the flavors from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer until the alcohol evaporates, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Preparing the sauce: After the wine has reduced, add the tomato sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, covered, for 30-45 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. If using carrot, add it along with the tomato sauce.

6. Boiling the spaghetti: In another pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-12 minutes). However, for this recipe, it is recommended to leave them for an extra minute than indicated, as the sauce will add extra moisture. After boiling, drain the pasta and rinse quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process.

7. Serving: Once the sauce is ready, mix the pasta with it in a large bowl or serve the sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle grated cheese or Parmesan on top, and for added flavor, add a few fresh basil leaves if you have them.

Serving Suggestions:
- This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
- A bottle of semi-sweet white wine will perfectly complement the meal, providing a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional Information:
These spaghetti Bolognese are a good source of protein from the meat, and the tomatoes provide antioxidants and vitamins. A serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a balanced dish that offers both carbohydrates and proteins, making it an excellent choice for a hearty meal.

Possible Variations:
- Vegetarian: You can replace the meat with a combination of finely chopped vegetables or textured soy for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Adding spices: Experiment with spices like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for an even richer flavor.
- Pasta: While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, to change the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, fresh, crushed or chopped tomatoes are an excellent choice and will add a fresh taste to the sauce.
- What wine should I choose? Choose a semi-sweet or sweet white wine to avoid too much acidity. If you don't have any on hand, a rosé wine can also be a good option.
- How can I make the sauce richer? Adding a cube of butter at the end of cooking will give the sauce a creamier texture and a richer taste.

Spaghetti Bolognese is not just a meal, but a culinary experience passed down from generation to generation. So, don't hesitate to prepare it at home and enjoy every bite!