Spaghetti Bolognese with Lean Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Pasta

Spaghetti Bolognese with Lean Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Pasta

Spaghetti Bolognese with Lean Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Pasta

Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting, timeless dish cherished by families around the world. By choosing lean ground beef and whole wheat pasta, you can enjoy a lighter version of this classic recipe without compromising on flavour. Follow these steps for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

  • 400g whole wheat spaghetti
  • 500g lean ground beef (5-10% fat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 400g can chopped tomatoes (or passata)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 150ml beef stock (low-sodium if possible)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Optional Additions

  • Red wine (about 100ml) for a richer sauce
  • Chilli flakes for a touch of heat

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then stir in the whole wheat spaghetti.
  3. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, or until al dente.
  4. Drain the pasta and set aside. If desired, toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery, stirring regularly.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

3. Brown the Lean Ground Beef

  1. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef to the saucepan.
  2. Break the beef into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula, distributing it evenly amongst the vegetables.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the beef is browned and most of the moisture has evaporated. Drain any excess fat if necessary (lean ground beef usually requires minimal draining).

4. Add Flavour and Sauce

  1. Stir in the dried oregano and dried basil, mixing well with the browned beef and vegetables.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes (or passata), tomato paste, and beef stock.
  3. If you prefer a richer sauce, pour in about 100ml red wine at this stage and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. A teaspoon of sugar can help counteract the acidity of the tomatoes.

5. Simmer and Thicken

  1. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
  2. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavours to develop and the sauce to thicken.
  3. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of water or beef stock. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.

6. Combine and Serve

  1. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
  2. Plate the whole wheat spaghetti and ladle the Bolognese sauce on top.
  3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added colour and aroma.
  4. For extra richness, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top (optional).

Tips for an Even Better Spaghetti Bolognese

  • Cook in Advance: Bolognese sauce often tastes even better the next day as the flavours have more time to meld. Feel free to make the sauce in advance and reheat.
  • Use Quality Tomatoes: High-quality chopped tomatoes or passata can significantly enhance the flavour of your sauce.
  • Keep It Healthy: Lean ground beef helps reduce saturated fat. Whole wheat pasta offers extra fibre and a slight nutty taste, complementing the robust sauce.
  • Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add chilli flakes or a small spoonful of harissa paste.
  • Adjust the Texture: For a smoother sauce, use a hand blender to briefly puree half of the vegetables before adding the beef, or blend the tomatoes themselves before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Spaghetti Bolognese pairs beautifully with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s also an excellent meal on its own, especially when you top it with fragrant herbs and a touch of cheese.

Enjoy your hearty Spaghetti Bolognese with Lean Ground Beef and Whole Wheat Pasta, knowing that you’re savouring a balanced combination of protein, fibre, and rich flavours.

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