Spaghetti with Bolognese sauce

Spaghetti with Bolognese sauce: A journey full of flavors and textures

If you're looking for a recipe that impresses with its taste and offers the comfort of a delicious meal, spaghetti with Bolognese sauce is the perfect choice. This classic pasta recipe is not just a combination of ingredients; it is a cooking story, full of tradition and history, that has won the hearts of many over time. Get ready to discover how to transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

300 g pasta (spaghetti or your preferred type)
350 g minced meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
1 small carrot, peeled and grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 medium celery stalk, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, peeled and diced
3-4 cloves of garlic, sliced thinly
100 ml oil (preferably olive oil for a richer taste)
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
1 teaspoon vinegar (to enhance the flavors)
400 g peeled tomatoes in juice (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
300 ml hot water
Salt, pepper, oregano, sweet paprika
1 bay leaf

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt so it tastes like the sea. When the water starts to bubble, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. After cooking, drain well and set aside, optionally drizzling with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the sauce: Start by heating the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cover with a lid and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the sweetness of the vegetables.

3. Add the carrot and celery: Once the onion has softened, add the grated carrot and chopped celery. These vegetables will add a rich flavor and pleasant texture to the sauce. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes.

4. Garlic and meat: Now it’s time to add the sliced garlic. Stir well, and after about 1 minute, add the minced meat. Stir constantly to break it up so it cooks evenly. Cook until the meat changes color and starts to smell like roasted meat, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Tomatoes: Once the meat is nearly cooked, add the peeled tomatoes and juice. Use a fork to crush them slightly so they integrate well into the sauce. At this point, also add the teaspoon of sugar and vinegar, both serving to balance the acidity.

6. Cooking the sauce: After mixing well, add the hot water and season with salt, pepper, oregano, sweet paprika, and the bay leaf. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, covered, for 25-30 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Assembly: Once the sauce is ready, remove the bay leaf and mix the sauce with the cooked pasta. You can add a bit of the water in which the pasta was cooked to achieve a creamier consistency.

Serving suggestions: Serve the spaghetti with Bolognese sauce hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, and a garnish of fresh basil or chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. A glass of red wine will perfectly complement this comforting meal.

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add sliced mushrooms or zucchini to the sauce for an extra boost of vegetables. Also, for a lighter version, you can use chicken or turkey meat.

Nutritional benefits: This Bolognese spaghetti recipe is rich in protein due to the meat, while the vegetables provide essential fiber and vitamins. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and garlic is known for its health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthy choice, offering more fiber and nutrients.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add a pinch of chili powder or chili flakes to the sauce.

3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, the Bolognese sauce freezes very well. You can store it in airtight containers for 2-3 months.

4. What other sides can I pair with Bolognese spaghetti?
A fresh green salad or herb focaccia are excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

I hope this Bolognese spaghetti recipe inspires you to spend time in the kitchen and create delicious memories with your loved ones. Remember, cooking is an art form, and every meal prepared with love is a masterpiece in itself. Enjoy your meal!