beef ragu recipe uk

The Rich Flavours of Italy: A Classic Beef Ragu Recipe UK Style

When it comes to comfort food, a hearty beef ragu recipe is hard to beat. This classic Italian dish has been adopted by many cultures around the world, and the UK is no exception. In this article, we'll delve into the rich flavours of Italy and explore a traditional beef ragu recipe with a UK twist.

The Origins of Ragu

Ragu, also known as ragù, is a meat-based pasta sauce originating from Italy. The dish has a long history, dating back to the 18th century, and was initially made with beef, pork, or a combination of the two. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and different regions in Italy have developed their own unique variations.

A UK Take on a Classic Recipe

In the UK, beef ragu is a popular dish that has been adapted to suit local tastes. Our version uses high-quality beef mince, onions, carrots, celery, and a blend of herbs and spices. We've also added a few UK twists, including the use of red wine and tomato paste, which gives the sauce a rich, intense flavour.

The Recipe

Here's our beef ragu recipe UK style, serving 4-6 people:

Ingredients:

• 500g beef mince
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped
• 1 cup of red wine
• 2 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the red wine, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, then bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavours have melded together.

Serve the beef ragu over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or pappardelle, and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

This beef ragu recipe UK style is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your tastes. Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use a combination of beef and pork mince for a more traditional Italian flavour.

• Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to the sauce for added flavour and nutrients.

• Use different types of pasta, such as rigatoni or fusilli, to change the texture and presentation of the dish.

• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as bay leaves or cinnamon, to give the sauce a unique flavour.

With this beef ragu recipe UK style, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Italian dish that's sure to become a family favourite. Buon appetito!