If you’re in the mood for a comforting Italian dish, look no further than this Beef Ragu. It’s a rich and savory sauce that simmers to perfection, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful meal. The slow-cooked beef becomes tender and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Imagine a hearty plate of pappardelle pasta, topped with thick, luscious Beef Ragu that clings to every noodle. This dish is all about the depth of flavor, combining aromatic herbs and spices that create a symphony of taste. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a festive occasion, it’s sure to impress everyone around the table.
A Cozy Italian Classic
As the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm dish of pappardelle pasta paired with Beef Ragu. This classic Italian preparation showcases the rich, hearty flavors that make it a beloved comfort food.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a depth of flavor that warms the soul. The slow-cooked beef melds perfectly with the aromatic sauce, creating a culinary experience that feels both rustic and inviting.
The Art of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking transforms basic ingredients into a luxurious sauce that bursts with flavor. The beef, when simmered for hours, breaks down into tender morsels that soak up the essence of tomatoes, wine, and herbs.
Allowing the Beef Ragu to simmer not only enhances the taste but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. This dish is ideal for leisurely meals with family or friends, where the focus is on savoring the moment.
Ingredients that Matter
Quality ingredients are essential for crafting a memorable Beef Ragu. Start with beef chuck, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow. Pair it with fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, which add sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
The addition of red wine and crushed tomatoes is crucial, as they create the sauce’s depth and character. Dried herbs like oregano and basil complement the meat beautifully, ensuring each bite is full of rich, savory goodness.
Cooking Techniques to Elevate Flavor
The method of preparation plays a significant role in achieving a sumptuous Beef Ragu. Searing the beef initially locks in flavors and creates a beautiful crust that enhances the sauce’s richness.
After sautéing the aromatics, deglazing the pot with red wine not only lifts the fond from the bottom but also infuses the entire dish with a sophisticated edge. These techniques come together to create a sauce that clings to every strand of pappardelle.
The Perfect Pairing: Pappardelle Pasta
Pappardelle, with its wide, flat noodles, serves as the ideal vehicle for the hearty Beef Ragu. The shape of the pasta allows it to capture the sauce perfectly, ensuring that each forkful is packed with flavor.
Cooking the pappardelle just right is key; it should be al dente to provide a satisfying texture alongside the tender beef. Tossing the pasta in the ragu just before serving ensures that every piece is generously coated.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
When it comes to presentation, a few simple garnishes can elevate the dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty richness, while bright green basil leaves provide a pop of color and freshness.
Consider serving the Beef Ragu and pappardelle in a rustic bowl on a wooden table, enhancing the warm, homey feel. This inviting setup not only makes for a delightful meal but also creates a memorable dining experience.
A Classic Beef Ragu Recipe
This Beef Ragu is a slow-cooked sauce made from tender chunks of beef, simmered with tomatoes, wine, and a blend of herbs. The result is a robust, savory dish that pairs beautifully with pasta or can be served over creamy polenta.
The flavors develop over time, resulting in a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings. The taste is deep and hearty, with hints of garlic and herbs balancing the richness of the beef.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pappardelle pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot along with the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the Beef Ragu sauce. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
👉 👉 Follow Alethea Blogger on Pinterest to stay updated with the latest posts: Click Here
