Porcini & Parmesan Bolognese

Rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, this is a classic bolognese enhanced with Bella Cucina Porcini Pesto for an ethereal earthiness that feels like fall, but deliciously easy to make and soulfully satisfying anytime of the year. 

SHOPPING LIST: 

2 Tablespoons Bella Cucina Extra Virgin  Olive Oil

2 tablespoons butter, unsalted 

1 small onion, finely diced

2 carrots, finely diced

2 celery stalks, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

2 Tablespoons Bella Cucina Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto 

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup dry red wine *Optional 

1 -24 ounce Jar Bella Cucina Organic Passata 

1- 6 ounce jar Bella Cucina Porcini & Parmesan Pesto 

1 teaspoon salt 

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1# Bella Cucina Cordelle Pasta Artigianale or gnocchi 

Grated Parmesan, for serving

PREPARATION: 

In a large heavy bottom pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft, but not browned, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Stir in Sun-dried Tomato Pesto and cook for 2 minutes.

Stir in the milk and cook until almost absorbed. Add wine (optional) and cook until nearly evaporated. Stir in Passata,  Porcini Pesto, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich. Season with salt and pepper. 

Make pasta or gnocchi according to package directions. Drain, saving some of the pasta water to use to thin the sauce as desired. Toss with the bolognese and sprinkle with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese.