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  • olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped finely
  • 4 bacon rashers, chopped
  • 250g beef mince (though this can be increased if required)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato puree
  • 2 x 400g tinned tomatoes
  • 50g chopped mushrooms
  • Salt and ground black pepper
  • 1 - 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 - 2 teaspoons mixed herbs
  • 1 - 2 teaspoons basil (dried or fresh depending on what you have)
  • 1 - 2 teaspoons of sugar
  • Chilli flakes (optional)
  • Parmesan, grated (optional)

    Method

    • step 1

      Over a moderate heat, soften onions and celery, add garlic and bacon and fry until cooked.
    • step 2

      Add mince, this can either be done in batches or else all at the same time, depending on the size of your pan. Let cook through for a few mins, drain the fat if needed carefully, there can be quite a lot depending on what kind of mince you are using.
    • step 3

      Stir in tomato puree, let cook for a minute and then add the tinned tomatoes. I use 2 tins and some water if you like a thinner sauce. Season lightly and let simmer for 10 minutes.
    • step 4

      Add the herbs and sugar, these can be added according to taste. Let simmer for another 10 mins and adjust seasoning. Add mushrooms near the end of cooking, giving them a chance to soften but still keep their shape.
    • step 5

      Serve with spaghetti straight away.
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    A star rating of 3.5 out of 5.2 ratings
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