I see you’re interested in a “big” recipe, which I interpret as a recipe that’s substantial, perhaps in size or flavor. Let’s take a look at a “big” recipe for a classic comfort food dish: Spaghetti Bolognese. This recipe is not only hearty and flavorful but also quite versatile, making it a great choice for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping.
Introduction
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households around the world. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- For the Pasta:
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- Salt for boiling pasta
- For the Finishing Touches:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and meat: Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Deglaze the pot: If using red wine, pour it into the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes to deglaze the pot and cook off the alcohol.
- Add the tomatoes and tomato paste: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the bay leaf.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente.
- Drain the pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the Bolognese sauce to the pasta and toss to combine.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti Bolognese and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Methods
Simmering: This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld and develop over time.
Deglazing: This technique helps to remove any browned bits from the bottom of the pot and adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
History
The origins of Spaghetti Bolognese are a bit murky, as the dish is more popular outside of Italy than within. It’s believed to have been popularized in the United States by Italian immigrants who adapted traditional Italian ragù recipes to local ingredients and tastes.
Benefits
Comfort food: It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for cold weather.
Versatile: You can add vegetables, different meats, or even switch out the pasta for a gluten-free alternative.
Make-ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
Formation
The formation of the dish involves layering flavors through the slow cooking of the sauce and the combination of the pasta with the sauce.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Bolognese is a “big” dish in every sense of the word. It’s a large, satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing and enjoying with others.
Lovers
Lovers of Spaghetti Bolognese appreciate its rich, hearty flavor and the comfort it provides. It’s a dish that’s often associated with home cooking and family gatherings.
Nutrition
Calories: Varies depending on portion size, but a typical serving can range from 400 to 600 calories.
Protein: Ground beef provides a good source of protein.
Carbohydrates: Spaghetti is a source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables in the sauce contribute vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Bolognese is a “big” recipe that’s sure to satisfy. It’s a dish that’s loved by many and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
This detailed guide should give you everything you need to make a “big” and delicious Spaghetti Bolognese. Enjoy!
