Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty spaghetti Bolognese. This classic Italian recipe, rich with vegetables and tender minced beef, is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a simple preparation method and ingredients that are easy to find, you can whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 onions
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 1 large carrot
– 1 stick of celery
– 1 courgette
– Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
– 500g lean beef mince
– 2 x 400g tins of plum tomatoes
– 450g dried spaghetti
– Cheddar or Parmesan cheese, to serve
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes peeling, trimming, and chopping the vegetables needed for the sauce.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this dish is about 2 to 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. In total, you can expect around 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Enjoy your homemade Bolognese with spaghetti and a sprinkle of cheese on top!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Place a large casserole pan on a medium-low heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Peel the onions and garlic. Trim the carrot, celery, and courgette. Finely chop or coarsely grate all the vegetables. Stir them into the pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and sweet, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the Mince
Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Turn the heat up a little and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly until the meat is browned and the vegetables are nicely golden.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Scrunch in the plum tomatoes using clean hands. Half-fill each tin with water, swirl it around to pick up any last bits of tomato, and pour it into the pan.
Step 6: Combine and Cook Down
Mash everything together with your spoon. Add a pinch of black pepper, reduce the heat to low, and leave to cook for 2 to 3 hours or until the sauce is thickened and reduced.
Step 7: Cook the Spaghetti
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the spaghetti in a large pan of boiling salted water according to the packet instructions, and then drain.
Step 8: Serve
Use tongs to divide the spaghetti between bowls. Spoon the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti and serve with a good grating of cheese.
Notes
Tip for Vegetables
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cooked vegetables before adding the beef mince.
Storage Advice
Any leftover Bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Cheese Options
Feel free to use either Cheddar or Parmesan cheese based on personal preference for serving.
Spice Variations
For added flavor, you may choose to include herbs like basil or oregano in the sauce while it simmers.
Cook techniques
Chopping Vegetables
Finely chop or coarsely grate onions, garlic, carrot, celery, and courgette to enhance flavors and ensure even cooking.
Sweating Vegetables
Cook the chopped vegetables in olive oil over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes to soften and sweeten them without browning.
Building Flavor with Mince
Add lean beef mince to the softened vegetables and cook until browned, stirring regularly to incorporate all the flavors.
Using Tinned Tomatoes
Scrunch the plum tomatoes with clean hands for a rustic texture and mix with a little water to ensure every bit of tomato is used.
Simmering
Reduce heat and allow the mixture to cook slowly for 2 to 3 hours, which helps to thicken the sauce and meld all the flavors together.
Cooking Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti in salted water according to packaging instructions for the perfect texture before serving.
Serving
Use tongs to plate the spaghetti and top it with the Bolognese sauce, finishing with a generous grating of cheese.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of beef mince?
Yes, you can substitute with pork, turkey, or a meat alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.
How can I adjust the cooking time?
If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the cooking time. For a thicker sauce, cook longer.
What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Bolognese sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.
What cheese is best for serving?
Both Cheddar and Parmesan work well, but Parmesan adds a richer, more umami flavor.
Conclusion
The hearty and flavorful Bolognese created from fresh vegetables and lean beef mince offers a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delightful. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Paired with spaghetti and topped with cheese, this recipe is sure to please all palates.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine the chopped onions, garlic, carrot, celery, and courgette in a hot pan with olive oil for a quick and vibrant vegetable stir-fry, served with rice or noodles.
Hearty Vegetable Soup
Use the same base of onions, garlic, carrot, celery, and courgette along with vegetable broth and your choice of legumes for a wholesome soup perfect for any season.
Beef and Vegetable Tacos
Brown the beef mince with finely chopped vegetables like the onion and courgette, then serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings for a fun and interactive meal.
Pasta Primavera
Toss cooked spaghetti with sautéed onions, garlic, and each of the chopped vegetables for a light and refreshing dish, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with cheese.
Cheesy Vegetable Bake
Layer the finely chopped vegetables with cooked beef mince, topped with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole that is great for leftovers.
