19 Italian Ragu Recipe For Lasagna Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that has become a staple in many households. One of the key components of a delicious lasagna is the ragu that goes in between the layers of pasta and cheese. Ragu is a rich and hearty meat sauce that adds depth and flavor to the dish. While there are many variations of ragu, the traditional Italian ragu is a must-try for any lasagna lover. In this article, we will share with you an authentic Italian ragu recipe for lasagna that will have you and your family coming back for seconds.
The key ingredient in any ragu is the meat. For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of ground beef. It is important to use a good quality beef to ensure a rich and flavorful ragu.
2. Pancetta
Pancetta, a type of Italian cured pork belly, adds a depth of flavor to the ragu. You will need ¼ cup of diced pancetta for this recipe.
3. Onion, Carrots, and Celery
The holy trinity of Italian cooking – onion, carrots, and celery – are essential in creating a flavorful base for the ragu. You will need 1 diced onion, 1 diced carrot, and 1 diced stalk of celery.
4. Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes
To add a tangy and rich tomato flavor to the ragu, you will need 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 can of crushed tomatoes.
5. Red Wine
A classic ingredient in Italian ragu is red wine, which adds a depth of flavor and richness to the dish. You will need 1 cup of red wine for this recipe.
6. Beef Broth
To enhance the meaty flavor of the ragu, you will need 1 cup of beef broth.
7. Herbs and Spices
To round out the flavors of the ragu, you will need 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions:
In a large pot, cook the ground beef and pancetta over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add in the diced onion, carrot, and celery and cook until softened.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
Add in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf.
Let the ragu simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors have melded together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Your authentic Italian ragu is now ready to be used in your lasagna!
Serve the lasagna with a side of crusty bread and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for the ultimate Italian feast. This ragu recipe can also be used in other dishes such as spaghetti bolognese or as a topping for pizza. Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and delicious meal in the future. We hope you enjoy this traditional Italian ragu recipe and it becomes a go-to in your kitchen.
