Bolognese sauce recipe

Discover how to make classic Bolognese sauce, rich in flavor and ideal for pasta such as spaghetti, lasagna or gnocchi. Easy and homemade recipe!

Ingredients for 4 to 6 servings:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1 small carrot, grated or finely chopped

1 stalk of celery, chopped (optional, but traditional)

2 cloves of garlic, chopped

500 g ground beef (rump or flank)

1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but recommended)

3/4 cup milk (optional, to soften the acidity)

2 cups tomato sauce or crushed peeled tomatoes

1 tablespoon tomato paste

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 bay leaf

Oregano or basil to taste

Parmesan cheese to serve (optional)

Preparation

In a large pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, carrot and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).

Add the ground beef and cook until golden brown and all moisture has been lost. Break up the pieces well with a spoon.

Add the red wine and let it evaporate for a few minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan.

Add the tomato sauce, extract, bay leaf and seasonings. Mix well.

Lower the heat, partially cover and cook for 30 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add the milk gradually during cooking to balance the acidity.

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Suggestions for Use

Serve with spaghetti, tagliatelle, penne or gnocchi

Use as a filling for lasagna Bolognese

Serve with Italian bread or toast

Variations

With pork: Replace half of the beef with ground pork.

Without wine or milk: Can be made without these ingredients, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Quick version: Cook for only 20 minutes on medium heat, although cooking for longer is ideal.