This is a traditional Italian Bolognese recipe. Although 2 hours seems like a long time to cook a sauce, it will give an amazing depth of flavour that is well worth waiting for.
Makes approximately 4 servings
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes
Cooking time is approximately 2 hours (in the oven)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons of oil
500g minced meat (Beef or a mix of beef and pork)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small carrot, finely chopped
1 stick of celery, finely chopped
400g tin of chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon of tomato puree
1 bay leaf (optional)
A pinch of salt and pepper
How to make Meaty Bolognese
On a medium hot hob, heat the oil and add the vegetable mix, stir for a couple of minutes.
Add the meat and season with salt and pepper, cook until browned.
Add the tinned tomatoes and then fill the can with water and add this to the pan.
Add the bay leaf (if using), tomato paste, and more seasoning if required.
Turn the heat to low and cook for a couple of hours. Check every half hour and add water (3-4 tablespoons) if it gets too dry.
Stir sauce, remove the bay leaf and it's ready to serve as desired.
The Bolognese can be eaten straight away with pasta or used to make Lasagne (see overleaf for the recipe).
HINTS & TIPS
This sauce is perfect for freezing into portions therefore make double the amount and freeze in batches. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly on the hob or in the microwave.
'Lighten up' serve with brown rice or wholemeal pasta. Extra vegetables can be added or stirred in once cooked. Frozen vegetables are a good way to get those 5 a day in!
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