3. Brown the Meat
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart. Cook until browned all over, about 8–10 minutes. Browning the meat properly develops a deep, savory flavor.
4. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Wine
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove its raw taste. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
5. Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Add the canned chopped tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more concentrated and flavorful it becomes. Stir occasionally.
6. Finish with Milk (Optional)
For a creamier, smoother sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of milk or cream at the end of cooking. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
8. Combine and Serve
You can either mix the spaghetti with the sauce directly or serve the sauce on top. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
9. Garnish and Enjoy
Serve hot, generously topped with freshly grated Parmesan. For extra freshness, sprinkle some torn basil leaves on top. A drizzle of good olive oil can enhance the flavor even more.
Tips for the Perfect Bolognese
- Low and slow: Simmering the sauce slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Mix meats: A combination of beef and pork gives a richer, deeper flavor.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate just before serving—pre-grated cheese lacks the same flavor punch.
- Balance acidity: If your sauce tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar can neutralize it.
With this recipe, spaghetti with Bolognese sauce becomes a labor of love, delivering a comforting and rich flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian dining experience at home.
If you want, I can also create a quick, visual step-by-step guide with tips for plating so it looks as good as it tastes. This works especially well for sharing or serving guests. Do you want me to do that?
No Responses Yet