italian beef ragu recipe uk

The Flavours of Italy: A Hearty Italian Beef Ragu Recipe for UK Foodies

When it comes to comfort food, Italian cuisine is always at the top of the list. And what's more comforting than a rich, slow-cooked beef ragu simmering away on a chilly UK evening? In this article, we'll delve into the world of Italian beef ragu and provide you with a mouth-watering recipe to try at home.

The Origins of Ragu: A Brief History

Ragu, also known as ragù, is a classic Italian meat-based pasta sauce originating from the northern regions of Italy, particularly Bologna and Emilia-Romagna. The word "ragu" comes from the French "ragout," meaning a type of stew. Over time, Italian cooks adapted this concept to create a rich, slow-cooked sauce made with ground meat, tomatoes, and herbs.

Italian Beef Ragu Recipe UK: A Taste of Tradition

Our Italian beef ragu recipe is a nod to the traditional Bolognese sauce, with a few tweaks to suit UK tastes. This hearty recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends.

Ingredients:

• 500g beef mince (80% lean)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, approximately 10 minutes.

Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavours have melded together.

Serve the Italian beef ragu over cooked spaghetti, pappardelle, or rigatoni, and enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Italian Beef Ragu Recipe UK

To take your Italian beef ragu to the next level, try these tips and variations:

Red Wine Addition: Add 1/4 cup of red wine to the sauce during the last hour of cooking for an added depth of flavour.

Mushroom Magic: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery for an earthy twist.

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

With this Italian beef ragu recipe, you'll be transported to the Tuscan countryside, surrounded by the rich flavours and aromas of Italy. Buon appetito, UK foodies!