Authentic and Flavorful Ragu Bolognese Recipe

4 stars
3.77 (18)
Authentic and Flavorful Ragu Bolognese Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
180 mins
Total Time:
200mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on December 30, 2023

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this authentic and flavorful North Italian Meat Sauce, commonly known as Ragu Bolognese. This slow-simmered meat sauce is made with ground beef, pancetta, aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, wine, and a hint of nutmeg. Serve this hearty and comforting sauce over your favorite pasta for a truly satisfying Italian meal. It's perfect for a weekend family dinner or for entertaining guests. Prepare to be transported to the streets of Italy with every bite!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 1 carrot, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces pancetta, finely diced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Saute until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the diced pancetta and ground beef to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  4. Pour in the white wine and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and whole milk to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  6. Season the sauce with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, partially covered, for at least 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
  8. Serve the North Italian Meat Sauce (Ragu Bolognese) over your favorite cooked pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Interesting Facts

  • Ragu Bolognese is a specialty from the city of Bologna in Northern Italy.
  • The authentic recipe requires a long cooking time to develop the rich flavors.
  • The addition of pancetta adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Traditionally, Ragu Bolognese is served with tagliatelle pasta, but it can also be enjoyed with other pasta shapes.