Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese with Mushrooms and Ham – A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the magical world of pasta! Today, I will share with you a simple and tasty recipe for Spaghetti Bolognese with mushrooms and ham, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. This recipe is a true family favorite, combining the rich flavors of mushrooms with the savory taste of ham and Bolognese sauce. It is also an excellent way to introduce vegetables into your daily diet without compromising on flavor.

A Brief History of Bolognese Pasta

Bolognese pasta is an iconic dish with deep roots in culinary tradition. Although often associated with a rich meat sauce, our version with mushrooms and ham offers a lighter and equally delicious alternative. This recipe is perfect for those who want to experiment with simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

- 200 g fresh mushrooms (preferably champignon, but you can use any type you prefer)
- 150-200 g ham, diced
- 1 packet of Spaghetti Bolognese powder (Carat Fix/Maggy)
- 250 g spaghetti
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated parmesan for serving
- Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the mushrooms: Start by cleaning and washing the mushrooms under cold running water. Then, slice them thinly. This step is essential to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Sautéing the mushrooms: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and release their juices. This step will intensify the flavor of the mushrooms.

3. Adding the ham: Once the mushrooms are sautéed, add the diced ham. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the ham becomes slightly crispy.

4. Preparing the sauce: Sprinkle the Spaghetti Bolognese powder over the mushrooms and ham, mixing well to combine the ingredients. Pour 250 ml of water into the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as desired.

5. Boiling the spaghetti: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, to achieve an al dente texture.

6. Rinsing the spaghetti: Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it and quickly rinse it under cold water. This step helps stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta from sticking together.

7. Serving: On a plate, add a layer of spaghetti topped with the delicious Bolognese sauce with mushrooms and ham. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle grated parmesan on top and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe can be served alongside a fresh green salad or a crusty baguette to complete the meal. An excellent beverage choice would be a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the rich flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious! Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, while ham provides a good amount of protein. Additionally, whole grain pasta can add fiber to your diet, helping to maintain digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the ham with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

4. What other sauces can I use for pasta?
You can experiment with tomato sauces, pesto, or even Alfredo sauces to vary your meals.

Possible Variations

To add an extra layer of flavor, try adding spices like oregano or fresh basil to the sauce. You can also include olives or chili peppers for a spicier taste.

So, get ready to indulge in a delicious and comforting meal! This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe with mushrooms and ham is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!