Emeril’s Sunday Pot of Bolognese Sauce: A Classic Simmered Recipe Bolognese Sauce
Table of Contents
Introduction : Bolognese Sauce
Have you ever wondered why some pasta sauces are just so much better than others? Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich, velvety [Bolognese Sauce] that’s been simmering for hours. This isn’t your average jarred sauce—it’s an experience. Today, we’re diving into Emeril Lagasse’s version of this iconic Italian dish, where every ingredient tells a story and every bite is pure comfort 1. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game?
Overview
What makes Emeril’s [Bolognese Sauce] so special? It’s all about the slow-cooked perfection that brings out deep, complex flavors. Unlike quick tomato-based sauces, this one takes its time—about 2-3 hours in total—but trust us, it’s worth it. The recipe requires moderate effort but rewards you with restaurant-quality results. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something comforting, this sauce will not disappoint.
Essential Ingredients
To create Emeril’s [Bolognese Sauce], gather these key components:
Meat:
- Ground Beef Chuck : Provides richness and depth.
- Veal : Adds tenderness and enhances flavor. If unavailable, extra beef works fine 6.
- Pancetta or Bacon : Offers smokiness and fat for browning other ingredients.
Vegetables:
- Onions, Carrots, Celery : Known as the “soffritto,” they form the base of the sauce.
- Garlic : Brings warmth and aroma.
Liquids:
- Tomatoes : Fresh tomatoes or canned whole peeled ones work best.
- Beef Broth : Adds moisture and intensifies savory notes.
- Wine (Optional) : Red wine deglazes the pan and enriches the sauce.
Seasonings:
- Herbs : Bay leaves, thyme, and parsley add layers of flavor.
- Salt & Pepper : Balance the overall taste.
- Heavy Cream : Creates silkiness at the end of cooking.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Replace pancetta with bacon for a similar effect.
- Use ground turkey or lamb if you prefer leaner proteins.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation:
- Dice Your Vegetables : Finely chop onions, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Prepare Meats : Separate ground chuck and veal; dice pancetta or bacon into small cubes.
Cooking Process:
- Render Fat : In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally 10.
- Sauté Vegetables : Remove pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Meat : Increase heat slightly and add ground chuck and veal. Cook until browned on all sides, breaking up lumps with a wooden spoon.
- Deglaze the Pan : Pour in red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth : Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer Slowly : Cover partially and let the sauce simmer for 90 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning halfway through.
Tip : For deeper flavor, finish the last 30 minutes uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate 3.
- Finish with Cream : Stir in heavy cream during the final few minutes for added creaminess.
Assembly
Once your [Bolognese Sauce] has reached its peak flavor, it’s time to assemble the dish:
- Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
For presentation tips:
- Arrange spaghetti neatly on plates.
- Drizzle additional sauce over the top for visual appeal.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storing your [Bolognese Sauce] is simple:
- Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for several months.
- To reheat, warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Make-ahead tip: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate overnight—the flavors will deepen even further 8.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to personalize your [Bolognese Sauce]:
- Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Incorporate dried porcini mushrooms for earthy undertones.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary for unique twists.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered Emeril’s [Bolognese Sauce], don’t be afraid to experiment! Whether you stick to tradition or add your own flair, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction every time. Gather your family around the table and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Buon appetito!
FAQs
Q: How long does Emeril’s [Bolognese Sauce] take to make? A: Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 2-3 hours, including slow simmering 3.
Q: Is Emeril’s [Bolognese Sauce] healthy? A: While rich in flavor, it contains fats from meat and cream. Opt for lean meats and skip the cream for a lighter version 6.
Q: Can I prepare this sauce in advance? A: Yes! In fact, many find that the flavors improve after a day or two in the fridge 8.
Q: What type of pasta pairs best with [Bolognese Sauce]? A: Spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle are classic choices due to their ability to hold onto the sauce 2.
Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with delicious aromas!
