Ragu: Vegetarian Italian Recipe

Ragu is a classic Italian dish that is usually made with meat, but this vegetarian version is just as delicious and satisfying. The sauce is made with a combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices, and it’s perfect for tossing with pasta, serving over polenta, or drizzling over grilled vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (28-ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are soft and lightly golden, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pan, and stir well to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and discard.
6. Use the sauce immediately, or let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions:

This vegetarian ragu is incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Here are some ideas:

• Toss the ragu with your favorite pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve the ragu over creamy polenta for a comforting and hearty meal.
• Drizzle the ragu over grilled vegetables or roasted root vegetables for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Verdict:

This vegetarian ragu is a great alternative to the traditional meat-based version. It’s full of flavor and texture, and the combination of vegetables and herbs creates a rich and satisfying sauce that can be used in so many different ways. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to switch things up, this ragu is definitely worth trying!