Introduction
Pork Ragu is a classic Italian comfort dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a dinner party with friends. The dish is made with tender, juicy pork shoulder that is slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce until it falls apart, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made in a slow-cooker, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1kg pork shoulder, cut into 2 inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400g) of diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cooking Instructions
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In a large pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer the pork to a slow-cooker.
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In the same pan, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then pour over the pork in the slow-cooker.
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Cover the slow-cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and falling apart. Remove the bay leaves and shred the pork with two forks.
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Serve the pork ragu over pasta, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply substitute the pork with mushrooms or lentils. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, to create a hearty, meatless meal.
Vegan Version
To make a vegan version of this dish, follow the same instructions as the vegetarian version and omit the parmesan cheese. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to create a fully vegan meal.
Slow-Cooker Version
This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow-cooker. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, but transfer the ingredients to a slow-cooker instead of a pan. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and falling apart.
Conclusion
Pork Ragu is a classic Italian comfort dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in a slow-cooker, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Whether you make it with pork, mushrooms, or lentils, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it over pasta with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
FAQ
What is Pork Ragu?
Pork Ragu is a hearty and flavorful Italian-style meat sauce made with tender pork, vegetables, and tomato sauce. It is typically served over pasta.
What type of pork should I use for Pork Ragu?
You can use either pork shoulder or pork butt for Pork Ragu. These cuts of meat are well-marbled and will become tender and flavorful after cooking for several hours.
Can I make Pork Ragu in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Pork Ragu in a slow cooker. Simply brown the pork and vegetables in a skillet, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the tomato sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I make Pork Ragu ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Pork Ragu ahead of time. In fact, the flavors will deepen and develop overnight, making it even more delicious. Simply store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What is the best type of pasta to serve with Pork Ragu?
Pork Ragu pairs well with thick, hearty pasta shapes such as pappardelle, tagliatelle, or rigatoni. The wide, flat noodles allow the sauce to cling to them, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
Can I use ground pork instead of pork shoulder or pork butt?
Yes, you can use ground pork instead of pork shoulder or pork butt for Pork Ragu. However, the texture and flavor of the dish will be slightly different. Ground pork will cook faster and will result in a finer texture.
Can I use a different type of meat for Ragu?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat for Ragu. Beef, veal, and lamb are all popular choices. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and method may vary depending on the type of meat you choose.
Can I add wine to Pork Ragu?
Yes, you can add wine to Pork Ragu. A dry red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese will add depth and complexity to the sauce. Simply add the wine to the skillet after browning the meat and vegetables, and cook until the alcohol has evaporated.
Can I make Pork Ragu without tomatoes?
No, Pork Ragu is traditionally made with tomatoes. However, you can try substituting the tomatoes with roasted red peppers or a combination of chicken broth and white wine for a different flavor profile.
Can I make Pork Ragu spicy?
Yes, you can make Pork Ragu spicy by adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno pepper to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired level of heat.
