Penulis Spaghetti Bolognese is a popular Italian-inspired dish that features a rich and savory meat sauce served over spaghetti. The sauce, known as "ragù alla bolognese," is typically made from ground beef or a mix of beef and pork, simmered with onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. It’s often cooked with tomatoes, red wine, and herbs like basil, oregano, and bay leaves, resulting in a deeply flavorful sauce.
Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting and satisfying meal, commonly served with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and sometimes fresh basil on top. The dish is widely enjoyed around the world, although it differs from the traditional Italian ragù, which is usually served with tagliatelle or other thicker pasta types rather than spaghetti. Over time, Spaghetti Bolognese has become a beloved dish in many countries, often considered a go-to recipe for family dinners and gatherings.
While the basic components remain consistent, variations of the dish have emerged to suit different tastes and preferences. Some versions incorporate additional ingredients like mushrooms, pancetta, or even a splash of cream for a richer texture. The sauce is typically simmered for a long time to allow the flavors to meld and develop depth, making it even more delicious.
Many people prepare large batches of Bolognese sauce to freeze and use later, as it tends to taste even better after the flavors have had time to mature. In its most classic form, Spaghetti Bolognese is a perfect balance of hearty meat, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of sweetness from the tomatoes. It's often served with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The dish's versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting flavor profile have made it a staple in kitchens around the globe.
Here’s a straightforward recipe for making Spaghetti Bolognese:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spaghetti (enough for 4 servings)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or beef and pork mix) to the pan.
- Cook the meat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Wine and Tomato Paste:
- If using, pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
- Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaves.
- Stir well to combine, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more broth or water.
5. Cook the Spaghetti:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving a small cup of the pasta water.
6. Combine and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.
Enjoy your Spaghetti Bolognese, a comforting and delicious meal!
EmoticonEmoticon