Maccheroni alla Bolognese by Pellegrino Artusi 1891

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€18.00
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Recipe for Maccheroni alla Bolognese by Pellegrino Artusi, who played a fundamental role in the codification of ragù as we know it today, particularly in Emilia-Romagna.


Ingredients:

  • 500 g maccheroni (or "denti di cavallo," a slightly curved type of pasta, or any other wide pasta)
  • 300 g veal (or minced veal)
  • 100 g pancetta or lard
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 glass of dry white wine
  • 500 ml beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper
  • Grated cheese (pecorino or parmesan, to taste)

Preparation:

  1. Prepare the ragù base:
    In a large pan or pot, sauté the pancetta or lard cut into small pieces in a bit of oil or butter, until golden and the fat has melted.

  2. Sauté the vegetables:
    Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook them gently until tender and slightly golden.

  3. Add the meat:
    Add the minced veal (or cut into small pieces) and brown it over medium heat. Make sure the meat is cooked through and lightly browned.

  4. Deglaze:
    Pour in the white wine and let it reduce, scraping the fond from the bottom of the pan to add flavor.

  5. Add broth and tomatoes:
    Add the warm beef broth and the tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let it simmer for about 1 hour, checking that the sauce doesn’t become too thick. If necessary, add a bit more broth.

  6. Cook the maccheroni:
    While the ragù is simmering, cook the maccheroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving some cooking water.

  7. Assemble and serve:
    Mix the maccheroni with some of the sauce, then serve on plates. Generously sprinkle with grated cheese. According to Artusi, the ragù should only be a moderate accompaniment, with cheese being the main seasoning for the dish.


Notes:

  • This recipe marks an important milestone in the history of ragù, as Artusi standardized the dish and made maccheroni alla bolognese an iconic dish in Italian cuisine.
  • The ragù is a moderate accompaniment in this recipe, unlike today when it is often the main component of the dish.
  • The maccheroni at the time were long and curved, resembling "denti di cavallo" (horse teeth), but you can use bucatini or even penne.
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