Authentic Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting plate of homemade spaghetti Bolognese. This classic dish, rich with flavor and hearty ingredients, is a staple in many households. Forget the jarred sauces; creating your own Bolognese from scratch is easier and far more rewarding than you might think.

Why Homemade Bolognese?

• Superior Taste: Fresh ingredients and careful simmering create a depth of flavor that pre-made sauces simply can't match.
• Healthier Option: You control the ingredients, reducing the amount of sodium, sugar, and preservatives.
• Customizable: Tailor the recipe to your liking, adjusting the vegetables, herbs, and meat to suit your taste.
• A Labor of Love: Making Bolognese is a comforting and satisfying cooking experience.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, ensuring no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the Liquids: Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth of flavor. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
5. Add Milk and Seasoning: Stir in the milk and season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 30 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well.
7. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot of Bolognese sauce. Toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Bolognese

• Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor. Opt for good quality ground meat and canned tomatoes.
• Don't Rush the Simmering: The long simmering time is crucial for developing the rich, complex flavor of the sauce.
• Add a Touch of Heat: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.
• Make it Ahead: Bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.

Variations

• Vegetarian Bolognese: Substitute the meat with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spice it Up: Add a diced chili pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
• Add Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
• Salad: A simple green salad complements the richness of the Bolognese.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs perfectly with spaghetti Bolognese.

Homemade spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that brings people together. Its rich flavors and comforting nature make it a family favorite that's sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating this culinary masterpiece. Bon appétit!