Beef Ragu

If there’s a dish that’s super comforting, exudes a luscious aroma and is incredibly tasty ��� it’s Beef Ragu. Our hero here, Beef Ragu, is an Italian staple hailing particularly from the region of Emilia Romagna. Picture a beautiful mess of meaty sauce with rich tomato flavour, served over silky pappardelle pasta or creamy mashed potato. With winter creeping around the corner, it is the perfect dish to serve on a cold night in and enjoy with a glass of red wine. You just can’t say no to it, trust me, it’s that good!

This recipe serves as an absolute life-saver for any dinner parties, family get-togethers or a romantic evening you might be planning for that special someone. Often touted as a crowd-pleaser, the hearty Beef Ragu will have your guests raving for more. And the best part? You can cook this beauty overnight or carb-load ahead of a big day. Truly, a meal you wouldn’t want to miss out on.

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 4 hours
• Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 3 pounds

Now that I have you drooling, let’s dive into the gist of making this wholesome beauty.

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1 can crushed tomato
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

You’ll need a good-quality heavy-bottomed pan and a good chef’s knife, in addition to regular cooking utensils.

The beef chuck roast makes the base of the Ragu, providing a meaty and rich flavour. The wine and tomatoes bring out a depth of flavour and richness to the dish. Using the right proportion of garlic and onions ensures a great aromatic base. The olive oil adds a silky texture.

If you don’t consume red meat, you could substitute with ground turkey or pork. For a vegetarian version, lentils or mushrooms could be a good alternative.

How To Make Beef Ragu

1. Firstly, heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and minced garlic until they soften and the aroma blooms.

2. Next, add the seared beef roast, crushed tomatoes, and red wine to the pot. Don���t forget to add a generous pinch of salt and ground pepper for taste.

3. Cover and simmer for 4 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any bits from sticking to the bottom of your pot.

4. Finally, shred the beef and allow it to absorb all the remaining juices. Serve on a bed of pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, finishing off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips For The Best Results

• Use a good-quality, heavy-bottomed pan for slow cooking.
• Always sear your beef before starting the sauce. This adds a caramelised flavour to your ragu.
• Do not rush the cooking process. Allow enough time for the sauce to simmer.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover ragu in airtight containers in the fridge. It can last for up to 4 days.
• This dish freezes well. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of a beef roast?

A: Yes, you can use ground beef, but the texture and flavour could differ slightly.

Q: Can this recipe be made in an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, the cooking time will be reduced to about an hour on high pressure.

Q: Can I make it without wine?

A: Yes, you can replace the wine with beef broth.

Q: Is it necessary to sear the beef?

A: While not necessary, searing the beef helps in enriching the flavour.

Q: What can I serve alongside corned beef?

A: You can serve it with your favourite type of pasta, rice, mashed potatoes or a simple salad.

Nutritional Facts of Beef Ragu

Each serving of Beef Ragu is approximately 350 calories with 16 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 25 grams of carbs.

If low-carb is what you’re after, then let me tell you, buddy, you’re in for a treat! The Beef Ragu is simply divine. Its heartiness, paired with the right amount of flavourful goodness, hits the right spot every single time. I usually pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and some crusty bread to sweep up all the lovely flavours. A dish that’s oh-so-good, it will leave you craving for more. Bon App��tit!