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Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that has captivated taste buds around the world. This iconic Italian dish, known as "ragù alla bolognese" in its homeland, is revered for its hearty flavors and comforting textures. While its origins can be traced back to the city of Bologna, Italy, Spaghetti Bolognese has gained immense popularity globally, often adapted to suit local tastes and available ingredients. From the bustling streets of Rome to family dinner tables in the United States, this dish has become a staple in many households, cherished for its simplicity and deliciousness.

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce

Discover the joy of making Spaghetti Bolognese, a classic Italian comfort dish loved worldwide. This guide will walk you through the essential ingredients, like quality pasta, fresh vegetables, and rich meats, to create a flavorful ragù that marries beautifully with spaghetti. You'll learn cooking techniques and tips for perfecting your sauce, ensuring a satisfying meal that brings friends and family together. Unleash your inner chef and enjoy this delicious, beloved dish at home!
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Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 medium carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

500g ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork for added flavor)

100ml red wine (optional for depth)

400g canned chopped tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

50g grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Spaghetti: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

    Prepare the Bolognese Base: In a large skillet or saucepan, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.

      Incorporate Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic along with the diced carrot and celery. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and fragrant.

        Brown the Meat: Raise the heat to medium-high, then introduce the ground beef into the skillet. Cook it, using a wooden spoon to break it up, until well-browned and fully cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.

          Deglaze with Wine (if using): Carefully pour in the red wine, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will allow the alcohol to evaporate and the wine to reduce, while you scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

            Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Incorporate the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste into the meat mixture, followed by the dried oregano, dried basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low to maintain warmth.

              Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick. If it thickens too much, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.

                Combine with Spaghetti: Gently add the drained spaghetti to the Bolognese sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the rich sauce.

                  Serve: Plate the spaghetti Bolognese attractively on serving dishes. Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving and add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish, if desired.

                    Enjoy: Dive into your delicious bowl of spaghetti Bolognese, relishing the comforting flavors and heartiness of this classic dish!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings

                        - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the dish in shallow bowls, and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before garnishing with Parmesan and basil leaves. Enjoy with a side of crusty garlic bread for the full experience!