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Spaghetti Bolognese

Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese: Hearty Comfort for Family Nights

This Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting family recipe bursting with rich flavors from tender beef and smoky bacon.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 200 g Diced Smoked Bacon Lardons Adds a smoky flavor and texture; substitute with thick-cut bacon or pancetta if needed.
  • 1 large White Onion Provides a sweet base flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances the dish's aroma and depth; adjust quantity based on preference for garlic flavor.
  • 1000 g Minced/Ground Beef The primary protein source; use 12% fat for balanced flavor. Higher fat content may require draining excess fat.
  • 30 g Tomato Puree Intensifies the sauce with a rich tomato flavor; use canned tomato paste if unavailable.
  • 240 ml Red Wine Adds depth of flavor; substitute with additional beef stock for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 700 g Tomato Passata Base of the sauce helps create a smooth texture; can replace with canned crushed tomatoes if needed.
  • 240 ml Beef Stock For enhanced richness of flavor; use high-quality stock or homemade if possible.
  • 100 g Sun Dried Tomatoes Introduces a sweet and tangy element; rehydrate if using dry tomatoes or use ones in oil.
  • 2 stalks Fresh Rosemary Imparts herby fragrance; can use dried herbs but fresh is recommended for authenticity.
  • 2 stalks Fresh Basil Imparts herby fragrance; can use dried herbs but fresh is recommended for authenticity.
  • 15 ml Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami; skip if allergenic or unavailable.
  • 5 g Sugar Balances acidity; adjust to taste depending on tomato sweetness.
  • Salt To season; adjust amounts based on personal preference.
  • Pepper To season; adjust amounts based on personal preference.
For the Spaghetti
  • 500 g Dried Spaghetti Main carbohydrate component; substitute with gluten-free pasta if required.
  • 50 g Freshly Grated Parmesan Finishing touch for flavor; always use fresh for the best results.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add diced smoked bacon lardons and cook them until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The bacon should turn golden brown, releasing its smoky flavors; set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added depth in your Spaghetti Bolognese.
  2. Add the finely diced large white onion to the pot, sautéing for approximately 3-5 minutes until it softens and becomes golden. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen and enhancing the base flavor of the sauce.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is browned and no longer pink, ensuring a rich, hearty flavor that forms the heart of your Spaghetti Bolognese.
  4. Stir in 2 heaped tablespoons of tomato puree, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavor of the sauce. Then, pour in the cup of red wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
  5. Add tomato passata, beef stock, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot along with the fresh rosemary and basil, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together vigorously, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to bubble quietly while the flavors meld.
  6. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low, letting the sauce simmer for 90 minutes. Stir occasionally; this step is crucial for tenderizing the beef and developing rich flavor in your Spaghetti Bolognese, so be patient.
  7. After 90 minutes, remove the pot lid and let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce to your desired consistency; you'll know it’s ready when it clings beautifully to the back of a spoon.
  8. While the sauce is thickening, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 500g of dried spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water if you prefer a looser sauce.
  9. To serve, top the drained spaghetti with a generous portion of the savory Spaghetti Bolognese sauce. Optionally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top, allowing it to melt into the warm sauce for added richness. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce for a delightful mix before enjoying your hearty meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Quality ingredients enhance the complexity of your Spaghetti Bolognese. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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