Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 pound pancetta, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cans of crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Sauté the Pancetta and Vegetables
In a large pot, sauté the pancetta over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its fat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. This step is crucial as it forms the flavor base of the ragù.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef and pork to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Make sure to break up any lumps to ensure a smooth texture.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This step adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Let the wine simmer until it has reduced by half.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef or vegetable broth, bay leaves, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Simmer and Stew
Bring the sauce to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the ragù simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After the long wait, your Tuscan Ragù is now ready to be served. Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Ladle the sauce generously over cooked pasta of your choice and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a glass of red wine and savor each bite.
Now that you know the secrets of making Tuscan Ragù, impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. With this step-by-step guide, you are well on your way to mastering the art of Tuscan cooking. Buon appetito!