What You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, usually about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Browning the Meat
Add the ground beef and pork to the saucepan. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat and cook until browned. This will take approximately 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Adding the Flavor
Once the meat is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Perfecting the Texture
If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water or beef broth to achieve the desired consistency. Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken as it simmers. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Your homemade meat sauce is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it over al dente pasta, such as spaghetti or rigatoni, for a classic Italian meal. You can also use it as a filling for lasagna or as a topping for homemade pizza. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top.
Buon appetito – enjoy your delicious homemade meat sauce!
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients, such as finely chopped pancetta or a splash of red wine vinegar, to add your own twist to the recipe. Remember, mastering the art of Italian cuisine is not only about following a recipe but also about infusing it with your personal touch.
Now that you have the ultimate guide to preparing the perfect meat sauce, it’s time to gather your ingredients and channel your inner Italian chef. We guarantee that each bite will transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Italy.