Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe: An Italian Classic That’s Hearty
# Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe: An Italian Delight
Bolognese sauce, also referred to as “ragù alla bolognese,” is a time-honored Italian meat sauce originating from Bologna. Renowned for its robust flavors and hearty consistency, this sauce is a fundamental component of Italian cooking and is typically paired with pasta, polenta, or layered in lasagna. Although traditional methods can be labor-intensive, utilizing a slow cooker streamlines the cooking, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously over a few hours. In this piece, we will dive into a mouthwatering slow cooker Bolognese sauce recipe ideal for family gatherings or meal prepping.
## Ingredients
To whip up a delectable slow cooker Bolognese sauce, gather the following ingredients:
– **1 lb ground beef** (or a combination of beef and pork for enhanced taste)
– **1 medium onion**, finely chopped
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 medium carrot**, finely diced
– **1 celery stalk**, finely diced
– **1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes**
– **2 tbsp tomato paste**
– **1 cup beef broth** (or red wine for a richer flavor)
– **1 cup whole milk**
– **1 tsp dried oregano**
– **1 tsp dried basil**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Olive oil**, for sautéing
– **Fresh basil or parsley**, for garnish (optional)
– **Grated Parmesan cheese**, for serving (optional)
## Instructions
### Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
1. **Heat the Olive Oil**: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. **Cook the Aromatics**: Introduce the chopped onion, carrot, and celery into the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.
### Step 2: Brown the Meat
3. **Brown the Ground Meat**: In the same skillet, incorporate the ground beef (or beef and pork blend). Brown the meat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. This step enhances the sauce’s flavor profile. Drain any excess fat if needed.
### Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
4. **Transfer to Slow Cooker**: After browning the meat, move it along with the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
5. **Add Remaining Ingredients**: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth (or wine), whole milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly.
### Step 4: Slow Cook the Sauce
6. **Cook**: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more intense the flavors become.
### Step 5: Final Touches
7. **Adjust Seasoning**: Approximately 30 minutes before serving, taste the sauce and modify the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary.
8. **Serve**: When the sauce is prepared, pour it over your preferred pasta, polenta, or use it as a filling for lasagna. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.
## Tips for the Perfect Bolognese Sauce
– **Meat Choices**: While ground beef is conventional, feel free to explore various meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix for a distinctive flavor.
– **Wine**: If incorporating wine, select a dry red wine that you enjoy drinking. It enriches the sauce.
– **Milk**: Including milk aids in tenderizing the meat and adds a creamy flavor to the sauce. Make sure not to skip this step!
– **Storage**: This Bolognese sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for as long as 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
## Conclusion
A slow cooker Bolognese sauce provides a fantastic way to relish an authentic Italian dish with minimal hassle. The slow cooking technique allows the flavors to fully develop, yielding a rich and satisfying sauce that will delight family and friends. Whether served atop pasta, in lasagna, or enjoyed solo as a cozy meal, this Bolognese sauce is a culinary must-try for every home cook. Relish the warmth and comfort of this Italian classic, and enjoy the enticing aromas that will fill your kitchen as it simmers!
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