Mastering Mary Berry'S Ragu Bolognese: A Delicious Step-By-Step Guide

Mastering Mary Berry's Ragu Bolognese is a delightful journey into the world of Italian cooking, made accessible by the queen of British baking herself. This traditional recipe is not just a meal; it's a testament to the comfort and joy that a well-cooked dish can bring. With a rich tomato base and a perfect blend of spices and meat, this Ragu Bolognese is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to mastering Mary Berry's Ragu Bolognese!

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Ingredients You Will Need 🍅

To create an authentic Ragu Bolognese, you'll need the following ingredients. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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<table> <thead> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> </thead> <tbody> <tr> <td>Olive Oil</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Onion (finely chopped)</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Carrot (finely chopped)</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Celery (finely chopped)</td> <td>1 stalk</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Ground Beef</td> <td>300g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Tomato Puree</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Canned Tomatoes</td> <td>400g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red Wine</td> <td>150ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Milk</td> <td>100ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Bay Leaves</td> <td>2</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt and Pepper</td> <td>to taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Pasta (to serve)</td> <td>your choice</td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

Preparing Your Ingredients 👩‍🍳

Before diving into cooking, prepare your ingredients:

1. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery. This combination, known as soffritto, provides a wonderful base for your sauce.

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2. Measure Your Ingredients: Having your ingredients measured and ready will make your cooking process much more efficient.

Cooking the Ragu Bolognese 🍲

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

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Step 2: Browning the Meat

Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. This process enhances the flavor of the meat, adding depth to your ragu.

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Step 3: Adding Tomato and Wine

Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato puree and cook for an additional minute. Then pour in the canned tomatoes and red wine. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Important Note: "Allow the alcohol in the wine to cook off slightly. This will create a deeper flavor."

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Step 4: Simmering the Sauce

Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and let the ragu simmer gently for about 1-1.5 hours. Stir occasionally and add a little water if the sauce becomes too thick.

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Step 5: Finishing Touches

After the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully, stir in the milk. This will help to soften the acidity of the tomatoes and give the sauce a rich, creamy texture.

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Serving Your Ragu Bolognese 🍝

When your ragu is ready, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it and serve it hot with a generous helping of ragu on top. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds the perfect finishing touch!

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Tips for Perfect Ragu Bolognese 🌟

• Use Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor.
• Experiment with Herbs: Add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: The longer you simmer the sauce, the better the flavor will be.
• Pair with a Wine: Serve your Ragu Bolognese with a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience.

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Conclusion

Mary Berry's Ragu Bolognese is not just a dish; it's a comforting culinary experience that brings warmth to any table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. By following this guide, you can master the art of making a delicious Ragu Bolognese that will impress everyone. Enjoy the process, embrace the flavors, and happy cooking!