Classic Bolognese Sauce

Serves: 4 

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped (food processor works great)

• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped (also in processor)

• 1/2 medium onion, small dice

• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)

• 1 (24 oz) jar Marinara or Tomato Sauce

• 1/2 cup milk (optional), or water

• 4 sprigs fresh basil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are very soft—about 5-10 minutes. Add the garlic and stir to combine.

2. Brown the Meat:
   Increase heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with the back of a spoon and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is completely browned, about 8–10 minutes.

3. Simmer the Sauce:
   Stir in the Marinara sauce, then add the milk (or water) to the jar and swirl to combine with the sauce still left in the jar, then add to the pot. Add the basil sprigs then bring the sauce to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover and simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

4. Season and Serve:
   Remove basil sprigs and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot over pasta, or store for later—this sauce only gets better with time.

HEIRLOOM TOMATO SAUCE (VINE STREET CAFE)

Made in small batches with ripe, sweet heirloom tomatoes, this sauce celebrates the pure, vibrant flavor of peak-season tomatoes, gently simmered with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of sea salt.