beef ragu recipe uk bbc good food

Hearty Beef Ragu Recipe Inspired by BBC Good Food

Are you in the mood for a comforting, rich, and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this Beef Ragu recipe, inspired by the experts at BBC Good Food. This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, and our version is sure to become a family favorite.

The Beauty of Ragu

Ragu, also known as ragù, is a traditional Italian meat-based pasta sauce originating from Bologna. The slow-cooked beef ragu is a masterclass in flavor development, where tender chunks of beef, onions, carrots, and celery meld together in a rich, velvety tomato sauce. The result is a depth of flavor that's simply impossible to replicate with a quick 30-minute sauce.

Our Beef Ragu Recipe UK-Style

To create this mouthwatering Beef Ragu recipe, we've taken inspiration from the BBC Good Food team. Our version serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in under 2 hours, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 kg beef shin or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 1 can of whole peeled tomatoes (400g)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup of red wine (optional)
• 1 cup of beef broth
• Freshly cooked pasta, for serving
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the red wine (if using), beef broth, and canned tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Serve the Beef Ragu over freshly cooked pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

A Perfect Pairing: BBC Good Food-Approved

This Beef Ragu recipe is a testament to the power of slow-cooked comfort food. The rich, meaty flavors and tender beef chunks make it a perfect pairing for a variety of pasta shapes, from spaghetti to pappardelle. So go ahead, get cozy, and indulge in this hearty, BBC Good Food-inspired Beef Ragu recipe – your taste buds will thank you!