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Paccheri al Ragù is a traditional Italian dish that brings together the hearty flavors of slow-cooked meat sauce and large, tubular pasta. This recipe showcases the rich, comforting essence of Italian cuisine, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. The paccheri, with its unique shape, captures the delicious ragù, making every bite a delightful experience. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients and a step-by-step process to create this mouth-watering dish.
Ingredients
- 400g paccheri pasta
- 500g ground beef
- 200g ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 400g canned tomatoes, crushed
- 100ml red wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Wine and Tomatoes
Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Ragù
Reduce the heat to low and let the ragù simmer for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Cook the Paccheri
While the ragù simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the paccheri and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the ragù has thickened and is flavorful, add the cooked paccheri to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
FAQs
What is Paccheri?
Paccheri is a type of large, tubular pasta from Naples, Italy. Its shape makes it ideal for holding sauces, particularly rich ragùs.
Can I make Paccheri al Ragù in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the ragù ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving and combine with freshly cooked paccheri.
What can I serve with Paccheri al Ragù?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty Italian bread. A glass of red wine also complements the meal beautifully.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef and pork with other meats like turkey or chicken, or even make a vegetarian version using lentils or mushrooms.
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