Italian stew, known as “Ragù” in Italy, is a comforting and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This traditional Italian stew is made with ground meat, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables, simmered slowly to perfection. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of making an authentic Italian stew, complete with a step-by-step video to help you along the way.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 500g of ground beef or pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cans of whole tomatoes (about 400g each)
  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
  • 1 cup of red wine (optional)
  • 1 cup of beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board and chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Video Guide

Watch the video guide here

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

  1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the ground meat to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

  1. Add the diced carrots, celery, and zucchini to the pot.
  2. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

  1. Pour in the whole tomatoes and tomato paste, breaking up the tomatoes with your spoon.
  2. Stir in the red wine (if using) and beef or vegetable broth.
  3. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer

  1. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
  2. Let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use a good-quality tomato sauce or passata for the best flavor.
  • If you prefer a smoother stew, blend the whole tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, depending on your preference.
  • For a heartier stew, consider adding beans or lentils.

Enjoy your homemade Italian stew, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends. Buon appetito!