Tagliatelle al Ragù alla Bolognese

IntroductionTagliatelle al Ragù alla Bolognese is the pride of Bologna, representing one of Italy’s most iconic pasta sauces. Rich, savory, and slow-cooked, this ragù is paired with broad tagliatelle to capture every bit of its luscious sauce. It is a true celebration of patience and culinary tradition.HistoryBolognese sauce originated in the Emilia-Romagna region and was first officially recorded in the late 19th century. Unlike its global adaptations, authentic ragù is less about tomato and more about a balance of meat, soffritto, wine, and milk or cream. This dish reflects centuries of refinement in Italian cuisine.Cultural ContextTraditionally, this dish is enjoyed as a Sunday family meal. In Bologna, locals insist it should be served with tagliatelle, not spaghetti, as the flat pasta holds the sauce better. It represents comfort, family, and respect for time-honored cooking methods.Ingredients and SubstitutionsThe sauce typically combines beef and pork, though some variations include pancetta. Red wine enhances the depth, while milk softens acidity. Fresh tagliatelle is preferred, though dried can be used in a pinch. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken may be substituted for beef.TipsCook the ragù slowly for at least two hours to develop its complex flavors. Use fresh egg tagliatelle if possible. Pair with a glass of Sangiovese wine for a truly authentic experience.

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Comfort Food

Tagliatelle al Ragù alla Bolognese

Cooking Method: Simmering, Slow Cooking Cuisine: Italian Courses: Main Course Recipe Keys: F family meal H hearty T traditional

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 120 mins Total Time 2 hrs 20 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 650

Dietary:

N None

Description

A hearty Bolognese sauce with fresh tagliatelle.

Main Ingredients

Servings

• 500g tagliatelle
• 300g ground beef
• 200g ground pork
• 1 carrot (diced)
• 1 celery stalk (diced)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 400ml beef stock
• 200ml red wine
• 200ml milk
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, carrot, and celery.
2. Add ground beef and pork, cook until browned.
3. Stir in tomato paste and red wine, simmer until reduced.
4. Add stock and milk, season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer on low heat for 2 hours.
6. Cook tagliatelle and toss with sauce before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 650kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 28g44%

Total Carbohydrate 75g25%

Protein 35g70%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Serve with freshly grated Parmesan.

Keywords: bolognese, ragu, pasta, beef, pork, slow cooked, Italian, hearty, tomato, sauce