Bolognese sauce

Spaghetti bolognese

Bolognese sauce, also known as ragù alla bolognese, is a meat-based sauce originating from Bologna, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. It is typically made with ground meat, such as beef, pork, or veal, and is simmered with tomato sauce, onion, carrot, celery, and other ingredients to create a rich, flavorful sauce. Bolognese sauce is a versatile and popular sauce that is commonly served with pasta, such as spaghetti or tagliatelle, and can also be used in lasagna, pizza, or as a meat sauce for sandwiches.

Bolognese sauce

History

The origin of Bolognese sauce can be traced back to the 18th century in the city of Bologna. The first recorded recipe for a meat sauce similar to ragù alla bolognese can be found in the cookbook "Artusi" by Pellegrino Artusi, published in 1891. The recipe was called "Maccheroni alla bolognese" and it included beef, pancetta, onion, carrot, celery, tomato paste, broth, and red wine.

Over time, the recipe for Bolognese sauce has evolved, with different variations and adaptations being developed. In 1982, the Bologna delegation of the Accademia Italiana della Cucina (Italian Academy of Cuisine) officially registered the recipe for ragù alla bolognese with the Chamber of Commerce of Bologna, in an effort to preserve the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

The traditional ingredients for Bolognese sauce include:

• Ground meat (beef, pork, or veal)
• Onion
• Carrot
• Celery
• Tomato sauce or canned tomatoes
• Milk
• Red wine
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter

Other optional ingredients can include garlic, pancetta, bay leaves, nutmeg, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Preparation

• To make Bolognese sauce, start by finely chopping the onion, carrot, and celery. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened.
• Next, add the ground meat to the pot and cook until it is browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once the meat is browned, add the tomato sauce or canned tomatoes, red wine, milk, salt, pepper, and any other optional ingredients.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer the sauce simmers, the richer and more flavorful it will become.
• When the sauce is finished cooking, remove any bay leaves and serve it hot with pasta or use it as a meat sauce for sandwiches or other dishes.

Variations

There are many variations of Bolognese sauce, with different ingredients and preparation methods. Some common variations include: Vegetarian Bolognese sauce - made with chopped mushrooms, eggplant, zucchini, or other vegetables instead of meat.

• Seafood Bolognese sauce - made with shrimp, clams, or other seafood instead of meat.
• Spicy Bolognese sauce - made with hot peppers or chili flakes for added heat.
• Creamy Bolognese sauce - made with cream or milk for a richer, creamier texture.
• These variations can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences and tastes.

Serving Suggestions

• Bolognese sauce is commonly served with pasta, such as spaghetti, tagliatelle, or penne. The sauce can be tossed with the cooked pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
• Bolognese sauce can also be used as a filling for lasagna or used as a meat sauce for pizza. It can also be used as a sauce for sandwiches or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Health Benefits

• Bolognese sauce can be a nutritious and healthy addition to a balanced diet when made with lean meat and vegetables. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and can help to promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction.
• However, Bolognese sauce can also be high in calories and saturated fat, depending on the ingredients and preparation method. It is important to practice moderation and balance when consuming Bolognese sauce as part of a healthy diet.

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