Perfect Bolognese Sauce

In a food processor, puree onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into a coarse paste.

Set a large pan over medium heat and coat pan with oil. Heat the oil. Add the pureed veggies and season generously with salt. Bring the pan to a medium-high heat and cook until all the water has evaporated and the vegetables become nice and brown. Stir frequently and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Be patient, this is where the big flavors develop.

Add the ground beef and pork and season again generously with salt. Continue to cook until the meat is browned. Brown food tastes good. Don’t rush this step. This will take another 15 to 20 minutes.

Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the red wine. Cook until the wine has reduced by half, another 4 to 5 minutes.

Fill half of the tomato can with water and add water to the pot. Toss in the bay leaves and the bundle of thyme and stir to combine everything. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. As the water evaporates you will gradually need to add more water—about 2 to 3 cups at a time. Don’t be shy about adding water during the cooking process, you can always cook it out. This is a game of reduce and add more water. This is where big rich flavors develop. If you try to add all the water in the beginning you will have boiled meat sauce rather than a rich, thick meaty sauce. Stir and TASTE frequently. Season with salt, if needed (you probably will). Simmer for 3 1/2 to 4 hours.

Serve over your favorite cooked pasta. Top with grated Parmigiano.

* Adatapted from Ann Burell and Food Network.