Name: Spaghetti Bolognese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti; 200 g ground beef; 100 g ground pork; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves of garlic (minced); 1 carrot (diced); 1 can (400g crushed tomatoes); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Indulge in the rich, savory goodness of spaghetti bolognese, a beloved Italian dish that combines ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs served over tender pasta. This recipe brings together simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a bowl of this hearty goodness that everyone will love!

Ingredients

400g spaghetti
200g ground beef
100g ground pork
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 500 calories, 25g of protein, 18g of fat, and 60g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Stir in the diced carrot, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned.
Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Drain the spaghetti, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Combine the spaghetti with the sauce, adding reserved water if needed.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef and pork with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms in place of meat. Additionally, canned tomatoes can be replaced with fresh tomatoes for a seasonal twist.

Serving and Pairings

Spaghetti bolognese pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s fully cooled before freezing.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not seasoning the sauce adequately leads to blandness.
Skipping the simmering step can result in a less developed flavor.
Using low-quality canned tomatoes may affect the taste.
Not browning the meat properly can lead to a watery sauce.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Consider adding a splash of red wine for depth.
Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.

FAQs

Can I make spaghetti bolognese ahead of time?

Yes, spaghetti bolognese can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

Is spaghetti bolognese suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the sauce in portions. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to airtight containers.

What can I serve with spaghetti bolognese?

Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a nice glass of red wine to complement the dish.

How can I make spaghetti bolognese spicier?

To add heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when cooking the onions.

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish, making it a healthier choice.

Conclusion

Spaghetti bolognese is a timeless classic that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe will surely be a hit!