Authentic Italian Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil & Butter: Using both gives a great flavor. But if you prefer, you could use just olive oil or even vegetable oil. For a richer taste, try using clarified butter.

Pancetta: If you can’t find pancetta, chopped bacon or prosciutto works well! You could also use turkey bacon for a leaner option without losing much flavor.

Ground Meat: I love using a mix of ground beef and pork for depth. If you want a leaner choice, consider turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that it may change the taste slightly.

Whole Milk: This is great for tenderness. If lactose is an issue, you can substitute with almond milk or a lactose-free option, but the texture might vary.

White Wine: Dry white wine adds acidity. If you’d rather skip it, try using extra broth or a splash of vinegar mixed with water instead.

How Do You Achieve the Perfect Simmer for Bolognese Sauce?

Simmering is key for developing rich flavors in your Bolognese sauce. Here’s how to do it right:

• After adding tomatoes and seasoning, reduce the heat to low. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld without burning.
• Cover the pot partially with the lid to prevent splatter while allowing steam to escape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Let it simmer for at least 2 to 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the better the flavor!

Remember, patience is key. You want that sauce to be thick and rich for the best experience!

Authentic Italian Bolognese Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 ounces pancetta or Italian bacon, finely diced
• 1 pound ground beef, preferably chuck
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 28 ounces (800 grams) canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand or lightly blended
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This beautiful Bolognese sauce takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare, but don’t forget to set aside 2 to 3 hours for simmering. This is where the magic happens and all the flavors come together!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil and butter together over medium heat until melted. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft and translucent; this will take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step, as it builds the base flavor. Avoid browning them!

2. Add Garlic and Pancetta:

After the veggies are nice and soft, stir in the minced garlic along with the diced pancetta or Italian bacon. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pancetta is lightly browned and lovely.

3. Brown the Meats:

Now it’s time to crank up the heat! Increase it to medium-high and add the ground beef and pork. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up with a wooden spoon to ensure there are no large clumps. Cook until all the meat is cooked through.

4. Add Milk:

Once the meat is beautifully browned, pour in the milk. Let this simmer gently, stirring often, until the milk has evaporated completely. This should take about 10 minutes and helps tenderize the meat.

5. Incorporate White Wine:

Next up, add the dry white wine to the pot and cook until most of it has evaporated, allowing the flavors to deepen.

6. Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if you’re using it. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Simmer, Simmer, Simmer:

Now, reduce the heat to very low. Cover the pot partially with the lid and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will be!

8. Final Touch and Serve:

After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your delicious Bolognese sauce hot over your favorite pasta, like tagliatelle or pappardelle. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness!

Enjoy your authentic Italian Bolognese sauce! Buon appetito!

FAQs About Authentic Italian Bolognese Sauce

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef and Pork?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork to make a lighter version! Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may differ slightly, so you might want to adjust your seasonings accordingly.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Sauce?

Leftover Bolognese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve!

Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Bolognese sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day in advance, cool it down, then refrigerate. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

What’s the Best Pasta to Serve with Bolognese Sauce?

Traditionally, Bolognese sauce is served with tagliatelle, but you can also use pappardelle, fettuccine, or even gnocchi. Just make sure the pasta is sturdy enough to hold up to the rich, meaty sauce!