Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Fettucine Bolognaise from scratch...

I use many pasta sauces when making quick bolognaise sauces but when I make it myself, it really does taste that much better. It is a quick meal that can be constructed at 4.30pm and left to simmer away until needed - the longer the better as flavours develop.
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In a heavy based pan, saute one onion and a large clove of garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Just sweat it off so the garlic doesn't burn.
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Next, add 500gms good beef mince (mine was very lean so you don't need to drain off fat) and break down the chunks as it browns...
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I use this large metal fork to mash down the mince into small, even pieces...smelling goood now!

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Toss in some fresh, chopped mushrooms (you could also add grated zucchini and carrot or pumpkin) ...
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Now add in the saucy bits - a can of tomato puree...
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... a can of chopped tomatoes (these Italian ones were .89c/can) ...
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Two tablespoons of tomato paste...
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Sprinkle in a large teaspoon of beef stock powder...
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Season with salt and cracked pepper to taste (your choice) ...
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I always add sugar to take the bite off the tomato, about 2 teaspoons...
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Throw in chopped basil and thyme (I used fresh but dried is just as good) - now let it simmer for 30 minutes with the lid on over very low heat - you can add a little water if it looks a but dry but mine was okay.
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Now get your pasta on and cook al dente - I used fettucine but spaghetti is good or any pasta noodle (your choice). Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and drizzle with a little olive oil - this stops it clumping. I put a couple of big spoonfuls of the sauce in with the pasta, dish out into serving bowls then top with more sauce and grated parmesan (or cheddar) cheese ...
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I made my own garlic bread using the bruschetta bread and some garlic butter I had in the fridge - 5 minutes in a hot oven and it was ready to go.
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Delicious!
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Have a lovely day - it's only about 9C here at the moment but it's a sun shiney day after a heavy fog this morning. I have pics to share later.
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Cheers - Joolz

1 comment:

  1. I think you need to come and cook for me!! :) Looks like you have been keeping busy!!!

    ReplyDelete

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