Are you craving a rich, flavorful, and utterly comforting bowl of pasta? Then look no further! Today, we're diving into the world of authentic Italian cuisine with a recipe inspired by the culinary genius, Fabio Viviani. This isn't your average jarred sauce; this is a homemade Bolognese, bursting with the deep, savory flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. It's a delicious dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly satisfying and easy recipes to follow.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe is all about letting the ingredients sing. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are key to achieving that authentic Italian taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup dry red wine (such as Chianti)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato puree
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Culinary Journey
This Bolognese sauce is a journey, not a race. Take your time, savor the process, and enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen.
Step 1: The Aromatic Base
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your homemade cooking.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Profile
Add the ground beef and pork to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat. This is where the rich, savory notes begin to develop.
Step 3: Deglazing and Simmering
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato puree, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: The Slow Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 hours for an even richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a truly exceptional sauce. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: The Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving over your favorite pasta.
Tips for Bolognese Success: Making it Your Own
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and good quality tomatoes will make a noticeable difference.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day!
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Vegetarian Bolognese: Replace the ground beef and pork with lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.
- Spicy Bolognese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Fabio Viviani-inspired Bolognese sauce is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious, and easy recipes. It’s a quick dinner idea that elevates weeknight meals and showcases the art of homemade cooking. Enjoy!