How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese: A Guide for Beginners

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved dish that has long been a staple of Italian cuisine. Known for its rich, savory flavors, this dish is beloved by people around the world. In today's guide, we'll walk you through the process of making a delicious and authentic spaghetti bolognese, ensuring you have all the knowledge you need to prepare a perfect meal for your family and friends.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for this dish are straightforward and readily available at any grocery store. Here is a list of the basic ingredients you will need to get started:

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small/medium carrot 1 small celery stalk 1 small onion 10 1/2 ounces ground beef (not too lean) 500 grams (or approximately 1 pound) of spaghetti 750 milliliters (or approximately 3 cups) of low-sodium beef broth 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional) 2 cups fresh or canned tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/2 cup milk (optional for those who need to thicken the sauce further) A generous grind of black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sautéed Vegetables

Start by preparing the vegetables. Clean and finely chop the carrot, celery, and onion. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped vegetables and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and start to release their moisture.

Step 2: Browning the Ground Beef

While the vegetables are sautéing, gently crumble the ground beef into the pot. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, for around 10 minutes or until it is well browned and crumbly. Drain off any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Adding Tomato Paste and Seafood Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of tomato paste over the beef, then stir well to coat. Next, add the beef broth, salt, sugar, and oregano (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more robust and flavorful sauce.

Step 4: Incorporating the Tomatoes

Add the diced or crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce for another 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This stage is crucial for developing the depth and complexity of flavors in the bolognese sauce. Feel free to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Cooking the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Follow the timing on the box to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente. Drain the spaghetti and reserve some of the pasta water.

Step 6: Combining the Sauce and Pasta

To serve, toss the cooked spaghetti with the bolognese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little pasta water. Add a generous grinding of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Garnish with extra grated cheese or chopped fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Additional Tips and Variations

To enhance your spaghetti bolognese, consider the following tips and variations:

Broth Selection: Use low-sodium broth to control the level of salt in the dish. Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. Sauce Thickening: If you need a thicker sauce, you can mix in some all-purpose flour or cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a paste, then stir this into the simmering sauce until it thickens. Herb Infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh basil or thyme to the simmered sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

With these steps and tips, you are well on your way to enjoying a delicious and authentic spaghetti bolognese. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to bring a touch of Italy to your dining table. Enjoy!