The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

This The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe brings together the rich flavors of beef and pork, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a hearty meal. This ragu is not just satisfying; it’s a comforting blend that warms the soul, making it a standout dish in any cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The slow cooking process melds all the ingredients into a deeply flavorful sauce.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights at home, this ragu warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over your favorite pasta or even polenta for a delightful twist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for easy weeknight dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking process smoother. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it retains heat well and enhances flavor development.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes ingredient preparation quick and easy.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

A rich, delicious bowl of goodness, this Beef and Pork Ragu is absolutely delicious. Cooked long and slow in a large dutch oven. This dish is easy yet it takes time for all the flavors to meld together perfectly. This is the ultimate comfort meal.

For the Pasta

• 10 oz of pasta

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork

For the Vegetables

• 1 and half cups of celery
• 1 and half cups of carrot
• 1 and half cups of onion

For the Sauce

• 2 x 680g of passata (tomato puree)
• 1 cup of white apple vinegar
• 4 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper

For Flavoring

• 4 sprigs of rosemary & 4 sprigs of thyme wrapped with twine (bouquet garni)
• 2” parmesan rind

For Creaminess

• ¼ cup of half and half

To Garnish

• Parsley for garnish

How to Make The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Finely chop the celery, carrot, and onion.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add both types of ground meat to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until nicely browned for about 8-10 minutes. Aim for crispy bits as they add flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

Add the chopped celery, carrot, and onion to the skillet with browned meat. Cook while stirring occasionally until vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer until reduced by half (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 6: Add Passata

Stir in passata until well combined with meat mixture.

Step 7: Season Your Sauce

Add oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate seasonings evenly into sauce.

Step 8: Infuse Flavors

Place bouquet garni (rosemary and thyme bundle) along with Parmesan rind into Dutch oven to infuse flavors as it simmers.

Step 9: Simmer

Reduce heat to low; let ragu simmer gently uncovered for at least an hour while stirring occasionally. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.

Step 10: Final Touches

Once thickened to desired consistency, remove bouquet garni and Parmesan rind. Check seasoning; add more salt if needed.

Step 11: Add Creaminess

Stir in half and half for extra creaminess. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 12: Serve

Remove from heat; serve over your favorite pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle. Optionally garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

How to Serve The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

Serving The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this rich and comforting dish.

Over Pasta

• Tagliatelle or Pappardelle: These wide noodles hold the ragu beautifully, making each bite a delight.
• Polenta: Serve the ragu over creamy polenta for a delicious twist.
• Gnocchi: Light, fluffy gnocchi pairs well with the hearty ragu, soaking up the flavors.

With Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the ragu wonderfully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over your ragu for added depth and flavor.

How to Perfect The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

To make sure your ragu is as delicious as possible, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality beef and pork for better flavor and texture.
• Slow Cooking is Key: Allowing the ragu to simmer slowly helps develop rich, deep flavors.
• Deglaze Properly: Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits after adding vinegar; they add great taste.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving, adding salt or spices as needed.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your ragu can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes add comfort and balance to the rich ragu.
2. Sautéed Greens: Spinach or kale sautéed with garlic provide a nutritious contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring sweetness to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offer a refreshing side that cuts through the richness.
5. Risotto: A creamy risotto can complement the flavors of the ragu beautifully.
6. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with Caesar dressing provides a nice texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe, it’s important to steer clear of common missteps that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the meat properly can result in a lack of flavor. Make sure to let the meat get nice and crispy before proceeding.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your meat and vegetables matters. Invest in good-quality beef and fresh produce for the best taste.
• Not deglazing the pan: Skipping the deglazing process can mean missing out on rich flavors. Always scrape up those flavorful bits after browning your meat.
• Overcooking or undercooking: It’s crucial to simmer for the right amount of time. Too little time won’t meld flavors, while too much can dry it out. Stick to at least an hour.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: After cooking, always taste and adjust seasoning. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate your ragu significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover your ragu in an oven-safe dish, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe:

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute pork or veal for the beef if you prefer. This will give you a unique twist on the traditional ragu.

How long does The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

What pasta goes best with this ragu?

Tagliatelle or pappardelle are excellent choices as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

Can I make this ragu ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavors even more as they meld overnight.

Final Thoughts

The Best Braised Beef and Pork Ragu Recipe is not just a filling meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings family together. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or veggies; this recipe is versatile and forgiving. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of goodness!