Spaghetti Bolognese

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Serves: 4-6Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (a mix of beef and pork can be used)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat (Medium-High Intensity):
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
2. Add Vegetables (Medium Intensity):
   • Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Deglaze with Wine (Medium-High Intensity):
   • If using red wine, pour it into the pot, scraping the bottom to deglaze and pick up the flavorful bits. Allow the wine to cook down for a few minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes and Milk (Medium Intensity):
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, milk, and broth. Mix well to combine.
5. Season and Simmer (Low Intensity):
   • Add bay leaves, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally.
6. Cook Spaghetti (Medium-High Intensity):
   • In a separate pot, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Finish Sauce (Low Intensity):
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning of the Bolognese sauce. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water.
8. Serve (Low Intensity):
   • Remove the bay leaves from the sauce. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
9. Garnish and Enjoy (Low Intensity):
   • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.
10. Enjoy your Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese! (Low Intensity):

Note: Traditional Bolognese is a slow-cooked sauce that develops rich flavors over time. Feel free to customize by adding a splash of cream or using a mix of meats.