Spaghetti Bolognese

There’s no doubt that making an authentic Bolognese sauce can take a bit of time, which is why it's good to make a large quantity, so that you can freeze it in smaller batches. This recipe makes 3 lbs (1.5 kg), which would be enough to serve a crowd.

Method

1. Heat a large, heavy-based pan. Add the oil and sauté the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, thyme and bay leaf for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables have softened and taken on a little colour, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the minced beef to the pan and mix until well combined, then sauté until well browned, breaking up any lumps with a wooden spoon.
3. Stir in the tomato purée and continue to cook for another minute or two, stirring.
4. Deglaze the pan with a little of the stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to remove any sediment.
5. Pour in the remaining stock with the tomatoes and then add the anchovy essence or chopped anchovies and season to taste.
6. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours is best until the beef is meltingly tender and the sauce has well reduced.
7. When ready to serve, bring a large pan of water to a rolling boil.
8. Add a good pinch of salt and swirl in the spaghetti.
9. Stir once and then cook for 8-10 minutes or according to instructions on the packet until the pasta is 'al dente’ (tender but still firm to the bite).
10. Drain and quickly refresh under cold running water, then return to the pan and add the butter and Bolognese sauce. Toss until well combined.
11. To serve, divide the spaghetti Bolognese among wide-rimmed bowls and scatter over plenty of the finely grated Kerrygold Dubliner cheese.