Authentic Spaghetti Bolognese

Ingredients

• Spaghetti noodles (500g)
• Ground beef (500g)
• Onion (1, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Carrot (1, finely chopped)
• Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Canned crushed tomatoes (400g)
• Red wine (1/2 cup)
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (to garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves (to garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined with the meat and vegetables, and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and red wine. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
8. Serve the cooked spaghetti noodles generously topped with the Bolognese sauce.
9. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!