White ragù (ragù bianco) – 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 Region / Locale: Emilia-romagna Servings: Serves 4
Italy Region / Locale: Emilia-romagna Servings: Serves 4White Ragù, or Ragù Bianco, is a subtle yet complex sauce hailing from the heart of Italy. Unlike its tomato-rich counterpart, Ragù Bianco is crafted with a focus on white wine, aromatic herbs, and savory meats, creating a delicate harmony of flavors ideal for pairing with pasta. This dish is a testament to Italy’s culinary tradition of leveraging simple, accessible ingredients to produce sublime dishes with deep and layered tastes.
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp / 28 g
- Onion, finely chopped – 1 large / 150 g
- Carrot, finely chopped – 1 large / 100 g
- Celery stalk, finely chopped – 1 stalk / 70 g
- Ground veal – 250 g / 8.8 oz
- Ground pork – 250 g / 8.8 oz
- Dry white wine – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Chicken broth – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Fresh rosemary – 1 tsp, finely chopped
- Fresh thyme – 1 tsp, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground veal and pork, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the milk, and cook gently for about 10 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, rosemary, and thyme; stir. Allow the ragù to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
Substitutions
- Ground veal -> Ground turkey
- Dry white wine -> Vegetable broth
- Fresh rosemary -> Dried rosemary, use half the amount
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add pancetta for an extra layer of flavor.
- Include a hint of nutmeg for warmth.
- Try incorporating a small amount of garlic for additional depth.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
