Slow Cooker Bolognese

Updated at: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 12:29:56 GMT

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over a high heat.

Step 2

Working in batches, sear the minced beef for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown all over.

Step 3

Use a slotted spoon to scoop it out into the slow cooker bowl as you go, leaving the oil behind in the pan for the next batch.

Step 4

Sear the bacon in the same way.

Step 5

I did think I could skip this step, but the meat tasted rather unpleasant, so browning the meat seems to be a crucial step in getting a tasty spag bol.

Step 6

Add all the remaining ingredients, except the pasta, sugar and basil or parsley to the slow cooker.

Step 7

Stir well together and season with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Pop on the lid and cook for 6-7 hours on low.

Step 9

About 10 minutes (or however long it says on the spaghetti packet) before the sauce is ready, cook the pasta according to the pack instructions.

Step 10

Once ready, drain and set aside with a lid on to keep warm

Step 11

Taste the bolognese sauce and adjust the seasoning to just the way you like it.

Step 12

If the sauce is too tart, add the sugar to sweeten it slightly.

Step 13

Tip the pasta into the sauce, add the basil or parsley and stir through, then divide among four or six bowls and serve.

Step 14

Top tip

Step 15

Conventional hob method: Sear the meat as above, then remove from the pan using a slotted spoon.

Step 16

Fry the onion, carrot, celery, rosemary, oregano and bay leaf over a low heat for 8-10 minutes until softened.

Step 17

Add the garlic for 1 final minute.

Step 18

Then add the meat back in, turn up the heat and add the wine.

Step 19

Allow everything to bubble down for a few minutes (if using just beef stock there's no need to do this).

Step 20

Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée and the sugar.

Step 21

Cover with a lid and simmer on a gentle heat for 1- 1/2 hours until rich and thickened.

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