One of our favorite meals, especially in the cooler months, is a big pot of bolognese. I've been cooking bolognese since I was about 10 years old, and through the years my recipe has evolved. Now it involves the Vitamix too which releases an incredible burst of flavors. Hunker down for a cozy night at home and enjoy this one pot meal that the whole family will love.
Bailey's Bolognese
Ingredients
2 TBSP EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)
Salt, a pinch
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/3 large onion, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved and divided
1 8oz jar kalamata olives
1 can tomato sauce
1 can diced tomatoes
1 hand full fresh basil
8 sprigs of fresh oregano
8 springs of fresh thyme
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 TBSP Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Red pepper
1 lb package ground beef, sauteed and seasoned to taste
1 can or package tomato paste (if needed)
Additional freshly chopped basil or thyme to garnish
Parmesan reggiano
Directions:
Heat olive oil on medium high in heavy bottom large Dutch oven or pot. Add salt, garlic and onion. Lower heat and saute until translucent. Add 1 cup tomatoes. Saute until cooked down and more saucy.
In Vitamix or blender of choice, combine other cup tomatoes, kalamata olives, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, fresh herbs, drizzle olive oil, salt, pepper, red pepper, Italian seasoning and blend until pureed together.
Pour blended sauce over garlic, onion and sauteed tomatoes in Dutch oven. Simmer on low heat.
In a cast iron skillet cook ground beef, sprinkle into pan and, add salt and pepper to taste. Cook until brown and crumbly.
Drain ground beef and add to sauce. Let simmer for at least 30 minutes or until ready to eat. Add tomato paste to thicken if needed. Taste sauce and add additional salt, pepper, and seasoning if needed.
Serve over your choice of pasta. Top with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Bon Appetit!