Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese: The Perfect Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Who doesn't love a steaming bowl of spaghetti bolognese? This classic dish, with deep roots in culinary tradition, has won the hearts of many thanks to the savory combination of meat, tomato sauce, and aromatic spices. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing useful tips and nutritional information to help you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g spaghetti
- 300 g minced meat (beef or pork, as preferred)
- 1 medium onion
- 1/2 red bell pepper (or sweet pepper)
- 1/2 cup white wine (approximately 125 ml)
- 400 ml tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil (to taste)
- Optional: grated parmesan for serving

Recipe History
Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of family meals. Although its original recipe did not include pasta, only a rich meat sauce, today it is associated with spaghetti. This combination has become so popular worldwide that it is hard to imagine an Italian meal without it.

Step by Step for a Delicious Dinner

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes. This step is important because the flavors will blend better if the ingredients are cut evenly. Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Bell Pepper
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and slightly golden. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the sauce.

3. Adding the Minced Meat
Once the onion and bell pepper are sautéed, add the minced meat. Stir well, ensuring the meat breaks into small pieces. Cook until the meat changes color, about 5-6 minutes. It is important not to overcook the meat, as it will become dry.

4. Deglazing with White Wine
Pour the white wine over the meat and stir well. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the sauce becomes more concentrated. The white wine adds a note of acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the meat.

5. Adding the Tomato Sauce
Now, add the tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well, then season with salt, pepper, and basil. These spices will give depth and complexity to the sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

6. Boiling the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and then the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

7. Combining the Pasta with the Sauce
Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it to the bolognese sauce. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. This is the stage where the flavors intensify, and the ingredients become one.

8. Serving
Serve spaghetti bolognese hot, sprinkled with grated parmesan, if desired. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch and additional aroma. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Recipe
- Choose quality meat: Good quality minced beef or pork will make a significant difference in the final taste of the sauce.
- Use quality tomato sauce: Opt for a natural tomato sauce without additives for an authentic taste.
- Add extra vegetables: If you want to enhance the flavors, you can add grated carrots or celery.
- Let the sauce simmer: The longer you let the sauce simmer, the better the flavor will improve. Ideally, it should be simmered on low heat for 1-2 hours.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 600 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g

Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Vary the type of pasta: If you prefer another type of pasta, you can use fusilli or penne.
- Add cheese: Experiment with mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a creamy note.
- Substitute white wine: If you don't want to use wine, you can add a little balsamic vinegar for an acidic note.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use minced meat from another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even soy meat for a vegetarian option.

2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! Bolognese sauce keeps very well in the refrigerator and can be frozen.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a little chili or chili flakes to the sauce to give it a bit of character.

Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings the family together at the table, offering a moment of relaxation and joy. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy every step of this culinary journey!