Why You’ll Love This Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
This braised beef and pork ragu recipe stands out for its simplicity and relatively quick cooking time. The step-by-step method streamlines the process, making it accessible even for beginner cooks while delivering rich flavors. Combining lean beef and pork, this ragu offers a balanced source of protein essential for muscle maintenance and repair, along with fresh vegetables and herbs that contribute antioxidants and nutrients to support overall wellness.
The dish adapts well to various dietary needs, allowing for substitutions like gluten-free pasta or plant-based options to suit preferences. Most importantly, the slow braising process melds the beef and pork flavors into a hearty sauce that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. If you’re looking to try versatile recipes that fit into busy schedules, this one will become a favorite.
Key Benefits and Uses
Beyond its ease of preparation, this ragu provides a comforting meal that can be tailored for different occasions. For instance, for external links, check out Beef nutrition benefits to see how it supports a healthy diet. Its distinctive flavor makes it a go-to option for home cooks aiming for satisfying dinners without much fuss.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
- 5. Mastering Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
- 8. Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
Essential Ingredients for Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
To make this recipe, gather the specific ingredients listed below. These items create a rich, flavorful ragu that’s easy to prepare at home. Remember to measure everything accurately for the best results.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 and a half cups finely chopped celery
- 1 and a half cups finely chopped carrot
- 1 and a half cups finely chopped onion
- 2 jars of 680 grams passata (tomato puree)
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 4 sprigs rosemary and 4 sprigs thyme tied together as a bouquet garni
- 2 Parmesan rinds
- 1/4 cup half and half
- Parsley for garnish
- 10 ounces of pasta
This structured list ensures you have every item needed, with precise measurements to make cooking straightforward. For special dietary options, you can swap meats for plant-based alternatives or use gluten-free pasta. Preparation time is about 15 minutes before cooking, so it’s ideal for busy evenings.
How to Prepare the Perfect Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Step-by-Step Guide
Start by preparing all ingredients, as this sets the stage for smooth cooking. Brown the ground beef and pork in olive oil over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes to build rich flavor. Once browned, add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness.
Next, deglaze the pot with white wine and simmer until it’s reduced by half, which takes about 3-5 minutes for a deeper taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 3 minutes before adding the passata for a hearty base. Season with oregano, salt, and black pepper, then include the bouquet garni and Parmesan rinds before simmering uncovered on low heat for at least one hour, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
After simmering, remove the bouquet garni and rinds, adjust the seasoning, stir in half and half, and cook for an additional 5 minutes to creamy perfection. Serve the ragu over pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle, garnished with Parmesan and parsley for a finishing touch. Tips like browning the meat well, caramelizing the vegetables, and chopping the mirepoix finely help ensure even cooking and maximum depth of flavor.
Adapting the Steps
For substitutions, swap ingredients as needed, and remember to store leftovers properly and reheat with added liquid. If you’re exploring other pasta dishes, check out our creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe for more ideas.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
Protein and main component alternatives include replacing beef and pork with mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian option rich in umami. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lower-calorie version, or incorporate textured vegetable protein for plant-based diets. These changes keep the ragu hearty and adaptable to your needs.
For vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, swap carrots with parsnips or zucchini based on what’s in season. You might blend crushed tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a smoky twist, or add herbs like rosemary and thyme to enhance the flavor. Using gluten-free broth and pasta options makes this recipe inclusive for various restrictions, ensuring it remains delicious and versatile.
Discover more ways to adapt meals by visiting Health benefits of pork, which can guide you in making informed choices.
Mastering Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro cooking techniques like marinating the meat overnight in wine and herbs can boost tenderness, while using a heavy Dutch oven ensures even heat for braising. Flavor variations might involve adding porcini mushrooms or smoked paprika for an earthier twist. Presentation tips include serving the ragu with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on al dente pasta, using rustic bowls to make the dish visually appealing.
Make-ahead options let you prepare the ragu a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld for even better results. Here’s a quick table to summarize key variations:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian Swap | Use lentils and mushrooms instead of meat |
| Spicy Option | Add chili flakes for extra heat |
| Low-Calorie Version | Opt for lean meats and reduce oil |
These expert insights help you perfect the braised beef and pork ragu while adding your personal touch.
How to Store Braised Beef And Pork Ragu: Best Practices
Store leftover braised beef and pork ragu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. For longer storage, cool the ragu completely before freezing it in freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw frozen ragu overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning and maintain moisture.
Meal prep considerations involve making large batches and dividing them into single-serve portions for easy weeknight meals. This approach ensures consistent flavor and texture, making your cooking routine more efficient.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
What is braised beef and pork ragu?
Braised beef and pork ragu is a slow-cooked Italian meat sauce made by simmering beef and pork together with tomatoes, wine, herbs, and vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. The braising process tenderizes the meat, creating a rich, hearty sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta, polenta, or gnocchi.
How long does it take to cook braised beef and pork ragu?
Cooking braised beef and pork ragu usually takes between 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the cut of meat and cooking method. Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender. Using a slow cooker or pressure cooker can reduce the time while still achieving a similar depth of flavor.
Can I make braised beef and pork ragu ahead of time?
Yes, braised beef and pork ragu tastes even better when made ahead because the flavors have more time to develop. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before serving.
What pasta pairs best with braised beef and pork ragu?
Braised beef and pork ragu pairs well with wide, flat pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine, which hold the thick sauce nicely. You can also serve it over rigatoni or creamy polenta to complement the rich texture of the ragu.
Is braised beef and pork ragu healthy to eat regularly?
Braised beef and pork ragu can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. It provides protein and nutrients from the meat, plus vitamins from vegetables and herbs. To reduce fat content, use leaner cuts of meat and moderate the amount of added oil or butter during cooking.
Braised Beef And Pork Ragu
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Non-vegetarian
Description
🍝 This Braised Beef and Pork Ragu recipe offers a rich, deeply flavorful sauce achieved through slow cooking and a medley of fresh ingredients.
🍲 Ideal for pasta lovers seeking a hearty dish that combines tender meats with a vibrant tomato base, perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 and a half cups finely chopped celery
– 1 and a half cups finely chopped carrot
– 1 and a half cups finely chopped onion
– 2 jars of 680 grams passata (tomato puree)
– 1 cup white wine
– 4 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon oregano
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 4 sprigs rosemary and 4 sprigs thyme tied together as a bouquet garni
– 2 Parmesan rinds
– 1/4 cup half and half
– Parsley for garnish
– 10 ounces of pasta
Instructions
1-Start by preparing all ingredients, as this sets the stage for smooth cooking. Brown the ground beef and pork in olive oil over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes to build rich flavor. Once browned, add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness.
2-Next, deglaze the pot with white wine and simmer until it’s reduced by half, which takes about 3-5 minutes for a deeper taste. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 3 minutes before adding the passata for a hearty base. Season with oregano, salt, and black pepper, then include the bouquet garni and Parmesan rinds before simmering uncovered on low heat for at least one hour, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
3-After simmering, remove the bouquet garni and rinds, adjust the seasoning, stir in half and half, and cook for an additional 5 minutes to creamy perfection. Serve the ragu over pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle, garnished with Parmesan and parsley for a finishing touch. Tips like browning the meat well, caramelizing the vegetables, and chopping the mirepoix finely help ensure even cooking and maximum depth of flavor.
Notes
🍖 Brown meat thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavor.
🥕 Finely chop vegetables (mirepoix) for even cooking and better texture.
⏲️ Slow simmer the ragu to meld flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Simmering time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising and simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl with pasta
- Calories: 650 calories
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 900 milligrams
- Fat: 28 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 55 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams
Keywords: Braised, Beef, Pork, Ragu