Sugo di carne – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Servings: Serves 4 to 6
Italy Servings: Serves 4 to 6Sugo di Carne is a rich and hearty Italian meat sauce that is traditionally simmered for hours to develop its deep and robust flavor profile. This classic sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, often served over pasta or used as a base for lasagna and other baked dishes. Originating from the heart of Italy, Sugo di Carne embodies the essence of Italian cooking where simple ingredients are transformed into culinary masterpieces through time-honored cooking techniques.
Ingredients
- olive oil – 2 tablespoons / 30 ml
- onion, finely chopped – 1 large / 200 g
- carrot, finely chopped – 1 medium / 150 g
- celery stalk, finely chopped – 1 medium / 120 g
- garlic cloves, minced – 3 cloves / 10 g
- ground beef – 500 g / 1 lb
- canned crushed tomatoes – 800 g / 28 oz
- red wine – 1 cup / 240 ml
- bay leaves – 2 leaves
- dried oregano – 1 teaspoon / 1 g
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- fresh basil leaves, torn – handful / 20 g
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and broken down into small pieces.
- Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaves, adjust seasoning to taste, and stir in the fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Substitutions
- ground beef -> ground turkey or pork
- red wine -> beef or vegetable broth
- fresh basil -> fresh parsley
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar for additional depth.
- Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a more complex flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for an additional hour for a more concentrated flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
