classic Spaghetti Bolognese recipe

classic Spaghetti Bolognese recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 can (28 ounces or 800g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or heavy cream
• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper (if using). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a spoon to remove any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the Tomato Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
   • If you’re using red wine, pour it into the skillet and simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
   • Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer, the richer the flavors will be.
3. Add Milk or Cream:
   • About 10 minutes before the sauce is done simmering, pour in the milk or heavy cream. Stir it in and continue simmering.
4. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Serve:
   • To serve, place a portion of cooked spaghetti on each plate. Spoon the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti.
   • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese hot and enjoy a delicious Italian classic!

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