To begin, let’s gather the ingredients you will need:
– 200 grams of ground beef
– 200 grams of ground pork
– 200 grams of ground veal
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cans (400 grams each) of crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup of red wine
– 1/2 cup of beef or chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into the cooking process:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Next, add the ground beef, pork, and veal to the saucepan. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned and no longer pink.
Step 3: Once the meat is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, bay leaf, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 4: Bring the sauce to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
Step 5: After a couple of hours, the mixed meat ragù will have thickened, and the flavors will be well-developed. Adjust the seasoning if needed and remove the bay leaf.
Step 6: Your mixed meat ragù is now ready to be served. Spoon it generously over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
The beauty of mixed meat ragù is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to your preferences by adding other ingredients such as mushrooms, carrots, or celery. You can also experiment by incorporating different herbs and spices like fresh basil or thyme for additional depth of flavor. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Moreover, mixed meat ragù freezes exceptionally well. Consider making a larger batch to store in the freezer for future use. It will come in handy on busy weeknights when you crave a homemade and flavorful sauce without the effort.
In conclusion, making a mixed meat ragù may require some time and patience, but the end result is definitely worth it. The combination of beef, pork, and veal creates a sauce that is robust, tasty, and perfect for pasta dishes. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and get ready to savor a delicious and authentic Italian ragù. Buon appetito!