Bolognese: A Slow Cooker Recipe for Restaurant-Quality Results
Bolognese, a classic comfort food, is known for its rich, flavorful sauce and tender meat. While traditionally cooked on the hob, slow cooking unlocks a depth of flavor and produces exceptionally tender mince. This recipe, inspired by Poppy Cooks and tested using a Laura Ashley slow cooker from AO.com, elevates this dish to a restaurant-worthy experience.
Why Slow Cooking is Superior
The beauty of slow cooking bolognese lies in its simplicity and the superior results it delivers. Instead of tending to a simmering pot on the stove, you simply combine all ingredients in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over several hours. This hands-off method frees up your time and ensures an exceptionally tender and flavorful end product that surpasses traditional stovetop methods.
Ingredients:
* 500g pork mince
* 500g beef mince
* One large onion, finely diced
* Two carrots, finely diced
* Two celery sticks, finely diced
* Three tablespoons of tomato puree
* One 400g can of chopped tomatoes
* 200ml of red wine
* 200ml of beef, chicken or vegetable stock
* Half a teaspoon of white sugar
* Two bay leaves
* Pinch of grated nutmeg (optional)
* One parmesan rind (optional)
* Splash of olive oil
* 100ml whole milk
* 300g spaghetti
* One tablespoon of cornflour, slackened with water
* Salt and pepper
Method:
1. Combine all ingredients (except spaghetti, cornflour mixture, and milk) in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure even distribution.
2. Cook for eight hours on low or five hours on high. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. With one hour remaining, stir in the milk.
4. During the last 25-30 minutes, add the spaghetti and turn the slow cooker to high.
5. Remove the parmesan rind (if used) and stir in the cornflour mixture with olive oil for a glossy finish.
6. Season to taste and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
* For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of different cuts of meat.
* Add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or zucchini for extra depth of flavor and added nutrition.
* Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your recipe. A dash of chilli flakes adds a nice kick.
* Using bone-in beef will increase the richness and body of the sauce.
* Adjust the cooking time depending on the type of slow cooker and the desired consistency of the sauce.
Conclusion
This slow cooker bolognese recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking. The result is a deeply flavorful, tender, and restaurant-quality pasta dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Its ease and convenience make it a recipe you’ll return to time and again, leaving you more time for enjoying the delicious outcome with loved ones. Embrace the simplicity and enjoy the culinary reward! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even as a make-ahead dish for weekend entertaining. It’s a truly versatile meal that can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. This dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
