Mum's Posh Spaghetti Bolognese

Sometimes only a big bowl of spaghetti will suffice...

Italian food is delicious and is probably one of our favourite and most cooked type of cuisine and before you say it, yes we know, 'Spaghetti Bolognese' isn't a traditional Italian recipe, however that doesn't mean it isn't delicious...

It's a classic, super easy and above all it's LUSH!

This recipe is packed full of depth and flavours and can be knocked up in as little as 15-20 minutes, however if you can be patient and leave the sauce to simmer for 1-2 hours then the sauce will be even better.

If you're looking for a vegan / vegetarian option then why not try our 'Lentil Ragu' recipe...

Happy Cooking!

The Chai Home 😋

INGREDIENTS

• 500g of spaghetti (dried or fresh)

• 1kg of beef mince

• 2x tbsp of olive oil

• 1x large onion finely diced

• 3x large cloves of garlic - crushed & finely diced

• 3x large pinches of salt

• 2x tsp of pepper

• 2x tsp sweet paprika

• 10x fresh basil leaves - roughly torn

• 1x tbsp of fresh thyme leaves

• 1x tbsp of balsamic vinegar

• 1x tbsp of dark soy sauce

• 1/2 cup red wine

• 3x bay leaves

• 600g of pasatta

For the topping - optional

• Freshly grated parmesan

• 1x tbsp of dried parsley

METHOD

In a large frying pan or skillet add the oil and heat on high before adding your onion & garlic. Fry for 1-2 minutes.

Turn to a medium heat and add the beef mince and fry until fully cooked. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid sticking or burning.

Once the mince has cooked add the salt, pepper & paprika and mix together well.

Turn to a low heat and add the balsamic, soy sauce, red wine and pasatta. Stir and bring to a low simmer. Add the bay leaves & basil leaves and stir.

Leave to simmer for at least 20 minutes, however if you leave it for 1-2 hours the flavours will be even better.

If you decide to leave it simmer for longer then you may have to add a few dashes of water to loosen the sauce and prevent the sauce from sticking & burning - be sure to stir from now & then.

When you have approx 10 minutes left of cooking time go ahead and cook your spaghetti - cook as instructed by the packet.

Before serving remove the bay leaves.

Serve and enjoy!

We like to plate up the spaghetti and then ladle the bolognese over the top.

Sprinkle it with some freshly grated parmesan and dried parsley - and of course some freshly baked 'Cheesy Garlic Tear & Share Bread' to soak up all that delicious sauce...