Pasta e fagioli alla bolognese

“Pasta e fagioli alla bolognese” refers to a dish that combines two classic Italian recipes: pasta e fagioli (pasta and beans) and Bolognese sauce. This hearty and flavorful dish typically includes pasta, beans, and a rich meat-based Bolognese sauce.

Here’s a basic recipe for Pasta e Fagioli alla Bolognese:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried cannellini beans (or use canned beans for convenience)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and then cook until tender. If using canned beans, rinse and drain them.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off the alcohol.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
7. Add the cooked or canned beans to the pot and continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
9. Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have melded, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. To serve, place a spoonful of cooked pasta in each bowl and ladle the Bolognese and bean mixture over it. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

This Pasta e Fagioli alla Bolognese is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for colder days. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Enjoy!