Escape the everyday and transport yourself to a cozy weekend cottage with the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked Beef Ragu Tagliatelle. This classic Italian dish, rich with tender beef simmered in a deep, flavorful tomato sauce, is the perfect antidote to a busy week. Imagine the warmth of a crackling fire, the comforting clink of wine glasses, and the sheer joy of sharing this hearty pasta masterpiece with loved ones. The rich, complex flavors develop slowly, creating a depth that's simply unmatched by quicker recipes. This ragu isn't just a meal; it's an experience.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is designed for ease and delicious results. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect ragu every time, even for novice cooks. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling wonderfully satisfied? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pie plate
- Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Ladle
- Soup pot
Ingredients
- Unbleached all-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper
- Chuck or blade roast: 3 pounds
- Vegetable oil: 4 tablespoons
- Bay leaves (fresh): 3
- Beef stock: 2 cups
- Sweet Vidalia onion: 1/2, finely diced
- Red chili flakes: 1 tablespoon
- Dried oregano: 1 tablespoon
- Celery salt: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic salt: 1 teaspoon
- Carrot: 1 cup, chopped
- Celery: 1 cup, chopped
- Cremini mushrooms: 2 cups, thinly sliced
- Tomato paste: 1 can
- Pureed tomato: 4 cups
- Sliced black olives: 1 can
- Sliced green olives: 1 can
- Red wine: 1 cup
- Tagliatelle pasta
- Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Preparing the Beef
- Mix 3 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and pepper.
- Dredge 3 pounds of chuck or blade roast (cut into 4 pieces) in the flour mixture.
- Brown the roast in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Turn frequently for about 10 minutes.
- Add 3 bay leaves and 2 cups of beef stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and slow-cook for 3-3.5 hours until tender.
- Remove the beef, trim away the string and fat, and shred with two forks.
Step 2. Building the Ragu
- Clean the Dutch oven. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the clean Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sauté 1/2 a finely diced Vidalia onion until softened.
- Add 1 tablespoon red chili flakes, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon celery salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic salt. Stir and cook briefly.
- Add 1 cup chopped carrot, 1 cup chopped celery, and 2 cups thinly sliced cremini mushrooms. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 can of tomato paste and cook for a few moments. Add 4 cups of pureed tomato, 1 can of sliced black olives, and 1 can of sliced green olives.
- Return the shredded beef to the sauce.
- Add 1 cup of red wine, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3. Cooking the Pasta
- Cook tagliatelle pasta according to package directions (about 7 minutes).
Step 4. Plating and Serving
- Serve the pasta in soup plates, top generously with the beef ragu, and garnish with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh bay leaves if possible.
- Ensure the beef is perfectly browned on all sides before adding the liquids.
- The ragu will be thick before adding the red wine; this is normal.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 30-45g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While tagliatelle is traditional, pappardelle, fettuccine, or even wide egg noodles work well.
2. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
The ragu tastes even better the next day! Make it a day or two in advance and reheat gently before serving.
3. What kind of beef is best for this ragu?
A tougher cut like chuck or beef stew meat is ideal, as it becomes incredibly tender during the long simmering process.
This Tender Beef Ragu Tagliatelle recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to culinary comfort and satisfaction. The rich, slow-cooked flavors will leave you wanting more, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for a relaxing weekend. Enjoy the delightful taste of home, wherever you are!