Meat sauce

A timeless and versatile component of many culinary traditions, meat sauce serves as a hearty accompaniment to a myriad of dishes, including pasta, rice, and vegetables. Its roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where combining meat with seasonings, herbs, and liquids was a method to enhance flavors and preserve food. Over the centuries, various cultures have adopted and adapted meat sauce recipes, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques. A staple in Italian cuisine, particularly as a Bolognese sauce, this version of meat sauce is renowned for its rich, deep flavors, achieved through slow cooking and the melding of simple, high-quality ingredients.

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
• Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelized slightly.
• If using, pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
• Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for at least 1 hour (longer if time allows), stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will deepen.
• Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Storage Tips

This meat sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Useful Properties of the Main Ingredient

Ground beef, the foundation of this sauce, is rich in proteins, essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining energy levels and muscle health.

Interesting Facts about the Sauce

• Global Variations: Nearly every culture has its version of meat sauce, from the spicy and complex mole of Mexico to the rich and aromatic curry sauces of India.
• Historical Significance: The concept of meat sauce dates back to the Roman Empire, where ancient cookbooks documented recipes combining meat, wine, and spices.
• Culinary Flexibility: Meat sauce is incredibly adaptable, serving as the base for a variety of dishes beyond pasta, such as lasagna, moussaka, and even as a filling for savory pies.

This classic meat sauce recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, offering a hearty, flavorful, and versatile option for enriching a wide range of dishes. Its deep, rich flavors and simple preparation make it a beloved staple in kitchens around the world.