rigatoni bolognese

Recipe for Rigatoni Bolognese:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine
• 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
5. Pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting the alcohol cook off.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can simmer it longer for a richer flavor.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked rigatoni pasta. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Rigatoni Bolognese!