An easy Bolognese that is super tasty and feeds a crowd from one of the world’s most celebrated chefs. Despite having never eaten at his table we completely respect him as this is all about depth of flavour and comfort which says more about his food values than any prettily displayed dish. You should have enough sauce to serve over 20 people so don’t be put off by the large quantities of butter and oil, it makes for a rich and delicious sauce. We’ve made this many times to stash in the freezer but this is the first time we’ve remembered to take a photo.
Wine suggestion: As Ferran is Spanish we went for a red from the same country, the Dominio de Tares Baltos, a Mencia with juicy black fruits, subtle and gentle spices and a vibrant freshness.
Bolognese Sauce – makes 2.5kg (serves many people!)
- 225g butter
- 1.2kg beef mince
- 350g pork sausage meat
- 500g onions, finely chopped
- 150g celery, finely chopped
- 400g carrots, finely chopped
- 150ml extra-virgin olive oil
- 12g tomato purée
- 1.6kg tinned chopped tomatoes (4 x 400g tins)
- a pinch of sugar
Put a large saucepan over a medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt before adding the beef mince. fry until browned, then add the sausage meat. Cook for another few minutes, then season well with salt and pepper, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring, until golden brown.
Put another large pan over a low heat, then add the olive oil. Gently fry the chopped onions, celery and carrot until softened, about 12 minutes.
Add the meat to the vegetables and stir well to combine. Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée. Season again with salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar. Simmer for 90 minutes, or until the meat is really tender.
Serve with pasta and grated Parmesan of course.
(Original recipe from the Family Meal: Home Cooking With Ferran Adrià, Phaidon, 2011.)
Jono & Jules do food & wine 
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