Traditional Ragu alla Bolognese Recipe: How to Make Authentic Italian Bolognese Sauce

Ragu alla Bolognese is a rich and hearty pasta sauce that is a staple of Italian cuisine, particularly from the region of Emilia-Romagna. This traditional recipe is made with a blend of meats, vegetables, and a slow-cooked tomato sauce, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish. Follow this recipe to create an authentic Bolognese sauce that will elevate your pasta dishes.

Inspiring Quote

“Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” – Federico Fellini

Recipe Description

Ragu alla Bolognese is an iconic Italian sauce that originates from Bologna in the Emilia-Romagna region. Known for its rich and hearty flavor, this sauce is traditionally made with a combination of beef, pork, and pancetta, slow-cooked with tomatoes, wine, and aromatic vegetables. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deeply satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with tagliatelle or other broad, flat pasta. This recipe will guide you through making an authentic Bolognese sauce, providing tips and historical context to enhance your cooking experience.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 100g pancetta, diced
• 300g ground beef
• 200g ground pork
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 800g canned tomatoes, crushed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Procedure

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   2. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cook the Meats:
   1. Add the diced pancetta to the pot and cook until it starts to crisp.
   2. Add the ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
3. Add the Milk and Wine:
   1. Pour in the milk and simmer until it evaporates.
   2. Add the white wine and simmer until it reduces by half.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
   1. Add the crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir well.
   2. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
   3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   1. Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked pasta.
   2. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Enjoy your Traditional Ragu alla Bolognese, a timeless Italian classic that brings the flavors of Bologna to your table. This hearty and rich sauce is perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.

Additional Notes

• Use whole milk for a richer sauce.
• The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated for even better flavor.

Tips and Tricks

• For an authentic experience, use tagliatelle pasta.
• Let the sauce simmer longer for a deeper flavor.

Region of Origin

Ragu alla Bolognese originates from Bologna, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.

Beverage Pairings

• Wine: Pair with a full-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Barolo.
• Beer: An amber ale or stout complements the rich flavors.
• Non-alcoholic: A robust iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.