Spaghetti with Ragu sauce

Spaghetti with Ragu Sauce

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

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today we will prepare a classic yet comforting and delicious dish: spaghetti with Ragu sauce. This dish perfectly combines the rich flavors of meat with the sweetness of vegetables, and the Ragu sauce is a true feast for the taste buds.

The history of Ragu sauce is fascinating; over time, it has evolved from a simple meat stew to a complex sauce full of flavors. This dish has been adopted and reinvented in various forms, but we will focus on a simple and accessible recipe, ideal for a family dinner or to impress guests.

Ingredients:
- 400 g spaghetti
- 200 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 small potato
- 400 ml tomato juice (or crushed tomatoes)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing

Ingredient tips:
- Choose quality meat, preferably from a trusted source. Beef brings a more intense flavor, while pork adds juiciness.
- If you want a more complex sauce, you can add herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme.
- Tomato juice can be replaced with fresh tomatoes, but make sure they are well-ripened for a rich taste.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion. Peel and dice the carrot and potato into small cubes. This will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and blend perfectly into the sauce.

2. Sautéing the meat: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced meat and sauté until browned, stirring regularly to avoid clumping.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped onion. Let them sauté together for 3-4 minutes, then add the carrot and potato. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become slightly tender.

4. Preparing the Ragu sauce: Pour the tomato juice into the skillet and mix well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a spicier sauce, you can also add a little chili.

5. Boiling the spaghetti: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 7-8 minutes, until al dente.

6. Finalizing the dish: When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the Ragu sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer on low heat for another 2-3 minutes for the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

7. Serving: Serve the spaghetti with Ragu sauce on deep plates, optionally sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of freshly chopped parsley. You can accompany this dish with a green salad and a slice of crusty bread.

Possible variations:
- You can add sliced mushrooms or zucchini to enrich the recipe.
- Instead of minced meat, you can use lentils or textured soy for a vegetarian version.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in protein from the meat, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta, providing an ideal nutritional balance for a satisfying meal. The carrot and potato bring a good amount of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for all family members.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use whole grain pasta?* Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option, rich in fiber.
- *How can I store the Ragu sauce for later?* The Ragu sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later use.
- *Is this recipe suitable for vegans?* For a vegan version, replace the meat with vegetables or plant-based proteins and ensure the tomato juice is additive-free.

Thus, preparing this spaghetti with Ragu sauce is not just a culinary process but a true experience! Each step brings with it a story, a memory, an emotion. So gather your family or friends and enjoy this delicious recipe that will bring not only a tasty dish to your tables but also unforgettable moments. Enjoy your meal!