Do you still order pasta takeout? Try this “Spaghetti Bolognese” recipe and thank us later!
Aside from Jollof spaghetti, one of the most popular spaghetti recipes in Nigeria is spaghetti Bolognese. A lot of restaurants in Nigeria, especially in major areas like Abuja and Lagos, have an entire menu dedicated to pasta varieties. Other pasta variants have a distinct flavor that draws people away from typical Nigerian spaghetti when eating out.
However, you don’t necessarily have to visit costly restaurants to satisfy your spaghetti Bolognese cravings. We have you covered. Here’s an easy yet delicious spaghetti Bolognese dish that you should try.
What is Spaghetti Bolognese?
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish in Italy known for its flavor and plenty of beef sauce. Bolognese sauce gets its distinct flavor by simmering ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a seasoning blend.
Ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese
~ Bolognese sauce ~
- Vegetable oil
- Onion, garlic (finely chopped)
- Ground beef
Canned diced tomatoes (crushed by hand work too) - Tomato paste
- Beef broth
- Red wine (optional)
- Dried herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)
- Salt, pepper (cayenne, black or scotch bonnet pepper)
- Mixed seasoning
~ Spaghetti ~
- Long pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Salt
- Vegetable oil
Note: The uncommon ingredient on the list is red wine. The purpose of red wine is to provide a little acid to the sauce, giving it a more complex but appealing taste. It simply balances out the sauce’s sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
How to Prepare Spaghetti Bolognese
Step 1
In a large pot or pan, heat the vegetable oil or any other oil you intend to use over medium or low heat. Add the finely chopped onions and garlic and sauté until golden brown. This step improves the taste of the sauce.
Step 2
Increase heat to medium or high and add ground beef. Break up the beef clumps with a spatula or cooking spoon and heat until browned. Flip the beef to the opposite side between cooking to provide an equal browning.
Step 3
If you are not using red wine, you can skip this step. Add the red wine to the sauce and simmer until reduced. Combine crushed or blended tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and dry herbs.
Season with salt, pepper, and mixed seasonings. Allow the sauce to simmer briefly before covering the pot and cooking for 15 – 20 minutes on low heat. This enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
Step 4
While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in a separate pot. Bring water, salt, and oil to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook as directed on the package. Cook until it’s slightly firm to bite into.
Step 5
After a few minutes, drain the spaghetti and set aside some of the water to add to the sauce later. In a larger pot, combine the cooked spaghetti and sauce, then add the leftover spaghetti water to loosen the sauce. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a mint leaf for garnish.
Note: It is recommended that you use spaghetti water because it contains starch, which will thicken the sauce and give it a velvety flavor.
Conclusion
With this easy but delicious dish, you can quickly bring the original taste of Spaghetti Bolognese into your home without having to go to a costly restaurant. Whether you’re in Abuja, Lagos, or anywhere else, this meal will impress your family and friends. The rich, savory Bolognese sauce, paired with precisely cooked pasta and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, makes a great meal.
