Spaghetti Bolognese

why make this recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Vegetables is a great dish for families. It is not only delicious but also a smart way to get kids to eat more vegetables. Using pureed veggies in the sauce, you can sneak in extra nutrients without them even knowing. This classic meal is easy to prepare and a hit at the dinner table.

how to make Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled, finely grated
• 1 courgette, trimmed, finely grated
• 1 red pepper, deseeded, thinly sliced
• 500g/1lb 2oz lean beef mince
• 400g tin chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp dried oregano or dried mixed herbs
• 1 beef stock cube
• 1 bay leaf
• 300g/10½oz dried spaghetti
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese, or similar hard Italian cheese

Directions:

1. Put the onion, carrot, courgette, and red pepper in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Cover with 500ml/18fl oz water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the onion and pepper are very soft. Remove from heat and blend the contents to a smooth purée using a hand-held blender. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Heat a separate, non-stick, lidded saucepan over medium heat. Dry-fry the beef mince for 3-5 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up any large clumps, until lightly browned on the outside.

3. Add the puréed vegetables, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and dried herbs to the pan. Stir well to combine. Crumble the beef stock cube over the top and add the bay leaf. Season with pepper and stir again.

4. Bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Half-cover the pan with the lid and continue to simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, stirring the sauce more regularly as it thickens.

5. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

6. Divide the spaghetti between bowls and top with the Bolognese sauce. Season with black pepper and grated Parmesan cheese.

how to serve Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Vegetables

Serve the spaghetti hot with Bolognese sauce poured generously on top. You can add more grated cheese if desired. This dish goes well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Vegetables

You can store any leftover Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.

tips to make Spaghetti Bolognese with Hidden Vegetables

• You can add other veggies like spinach or mushrooms for even more nutrition.
• If you want a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer longer.
• For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or chopped chili.

variation

You can easily make this recipe with turkey mince instead of beef for a lighter option. Another variation is to use whole-wheat spaghetti for a healthier choice.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lean turkey or chicken mince for the beef.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free spaghetti instead of regular pasta and check that all sauces are gluten-free.