Homemade Tagliatelle, slowly braised meat sauce according to the original recipe
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Ragù alla Bolognese is not just a sauce, it's a narrative of Italy's culinary heart. Originating from Bologna, the capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region, this meat-based sauce has become emblematic of Italian cuisine worldwide.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Meat: A blend of finely ground beef and pork provides the sauce with its hearty foundation.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes contribute a tangy sweetness.
- Aromatics: Onions, carrots, and celery are finely chopped and sautéed to impart depth and aroma.
- Liquids: Wine, milk, and sometimes broth are added to achieve the desired consistency and richness.
- Seasonings: The sauce is seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of nutmeg or bay leaves.
- Cooking Time: True Ragù alla Bolognese requires patience, often simmering for several hours to develop its deep flavors.
Taste and Texture:
Each spoonful of Ragù alla Bolognese is a celebration of flavours. The richness of the meat marries beautifully with the sweet and tangy notes of the tomatoes. The milk adds a subtle creaminess, making the sauce velvety. Overall, it's a harmonious balance of savoury depth and slight sweetness.
Serving Tradition:
While many associate this sauce with spaghetti, the traditional pasta of choice in Bologna is tagliatelle — broad, flat ribbons that perfectly hold the rich sauce.
The dish, "Tagliatelle al Ragù," is a staple in Bolognese households.
Cultural Significance:
The importance of Ragù alla Bolognese to Italian culture cannot be understated. In 1982, the Italian Academy of Cuisine even deposited an official recipe with the Bologna Chamber of Commerce. Such an act underscores the sauce's cultural and culinary significance.
Ragù alla Bolognese is more than just a meat sauce. It embodies the spirit of Bologna, reflecting centuries of culinary tradition and passion. To taste it is to embark on a journey through Italy's gastronomic history.