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Easy Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce: A Speedy Classic

Bolognese sauce, a staple of Italian cuisine, is adored for its rich, savoury flavours and comforting qualities. Traditionally, it requires hours of simmering to develop its iconic taste. However, with the advent of the Instant Pot, making a delicious Bolognese has never been easier or quicker. This recipe promises a delightful, hearty sauce that can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For an authentic yet simplified Bolognese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavour)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery sticks, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 400g can of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 200ml beef stock (or use a low-salt option)
• 100ml red wine (optional, but recommended for depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Pasta of your choice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by turning on your Instant Pot and selecting the ‘Sauté’ function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the minced beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Herbs

Once the meat is browned, pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot with a spatula to release any browned bits – this adds flavour to your sauce. After about 2-3 minutes, add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, beef stock, dried oregano, and basil. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Choose the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 20 minutes. The pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking timer begins.

Step 5: Release and Finish

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before switching the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid and taste the sauce, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.

Step 6: Serve

For the ultimate experience, serve your Bolognese sauce over freshly cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that authentic Italian touch.

Conclusion

This Easy Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce is a game-changer for anyone who thought they didn’t have the time to enjoy a homemade pasta sauce. With tender meat, aromatic vegetables, and herby goodness, it captures the essence of a traditional Bolognese but fits perfectly into a modern, busy lifestyle. Perfect for family dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary creation with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad, and you have a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Buon appetito!

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