Spaghetti Bolognese

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (28 oz / 800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will be.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or more beef broth to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

History:

Spaghetti Bolognese, also known simply as Bolognese sauce, is a classic Italian meat-based pasta sauce. Although the sauce's origins can be traced back to the city of Bologna in Italy, the modern version of Spaghetti Bolognese that we know today evolved over time.

The traditional Bolognese sauce, called "Ragù alla Bolognese" in Italian, is a slow-cooked meat sauce that typically includes ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork, along with onions, celery, carrots, tomatoes, and seasonings. It is a hearty and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti or other pasta shapes.

Over the years, the popularity of Spaghetti Bolognese spread beyond Italy and became a favorite pasta dish worldwide. Many variations of the recipe exist today, with some adding ingredients like pancetta, milk, or red wine to enhance the flavors further.

Interesting Facts:

- Spaghetti Bolognese is not traditionally served with spaghetti in Italy. Instead, it is typically served with tagliatelle, fettuccine, or other wide pasta shapes.

- The authentic Bolognese sauce is simmered slowly for several hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop.

- Bolognese sauce can be made in large batches and freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal planning and leftovers.

- While Spaghetti Bolognese is a popular dish worldwide, it is not considered a part of traditional Italian cuisine, as it is often prepared outside of Italy in ways that differ from the original recipe.

Note: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.