Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti alla Bolognese - A classic and comforting recipe

If you are looking for a pasta recipe that combines rich flavors with a perfect texture, spaghetti alla Bolognese is the ideal choice. This dish is not only nourishing but also steeped in tradition, with a rich history that spans decades. It is one of those meals that reminds us of family gatherings, festive moments, and the comfort of home.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 400 g spaghetti or tagliatelle
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 piece of celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 parsnip (optional, but adds a sweet taste)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 400 g minced beef (you can also use pork or a mix)
- 1 glass of red wine (optional, but recommended for a deeper flavor)
- 1 cup of tomato sauce (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- Extra virgin olive oil (2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil (to taste)

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and finely chopping the onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip. You can use a food processor to save time. Also, finely chop the garlic.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, parsnip) and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft and aromatic.

3. Add the meat: Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced meat. Use a wooden spoon to stir continuously, ensuring it cooks evenly and doesn't clump. Cook until the meat changes color, about 5-8 minutes.

4. Wine and tomato sauce: Pour the glass of red wine into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to evaporate the alcohol. Then add the tomato sauce, mix well, and season with salt, pepper, and basil. This brings the perfect flavor.

5. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you notice the sauce becoming too thick, you can add a little water or more tomato sauce.

6. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions (usually between 8-10 minutes for spaghetti), until al dente.

7. Combining: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet over the Bolognese sauce. Mix well so that each strand of pasta is evenly coated with the rich sauce.

8. Serving: Serve spaghetti alla Bolognese hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, grated Parmesan on top for added flavor. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread.

Useful tips

- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with chopped mushrooms or lentils, which provide a similar texture.
- The sauce can be made a day in advance: Cook the Bolognese sauce a day ahead, as the flavors meld better and become more intense.
- Perfect pasta: Make sure the pasta is al dente so it doesn't turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Recommended drinks: To complement the meal, a dry red wine pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, fresh lemonade or mineral water with lemon are excellent choices.

Nutritional benefits

Spaghetti alla Bolognese is a balanced meal, rich in protein from the meat, vitamins from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta. It represents an important source of energy, ideal for an active day. Beef provides iron and zinc, essential for the body's health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use whole wheat pasta? Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and extra nutrients, making it a healthier option.
- How can I store the sauce? The Bolognese sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.
- What other spices can I use? Besides basil, you can add oregano or even a pinch of chili for a spicy kick.

Personal note

This spaghetti alla Bolognese recipe reminds me of evenings spent with family around the table, where every plate was filled with love and joy. I encourage you to prepare it and share this experience with your loved ones, bringing a touch of warmth and tradition to your home.

Enjoy every bite and let the flavors take you on an unforgettable culinary journey!