Pasta Bolognese

This is a delicious and classical Northern Italian sauce.  The distinct "pinkness" of this sauce comes from the cream and red wine, which sets it apart from the traditional "red" sauce from Southern Italy.  I know you will come to enjoy this sauce as much as I have!

Ingredients:

1 pound of lean chopped beef
2 carrots finely chopped
2 celery stalks finely chopped
1 small onion
1 small package of mushrooms (optional)
1 large can tomato puree
1 small can of tomato paste
1/2 cup red wine
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp dried Italian/Greek oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil
pinch of nutmeg
1 tblspn of finely chopped Italian parsley
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Saute onions, carrots, celery and mushrooms in a large pan.  Once the onions become translucent, add the hamburger meat.  Brown the meat and add the wine, tomato puree, tomato paste and simmer for about an hour.  Add the heavy cream and let simmer another 1/2 to 45 minutes.  Serve over type of pasta.  Add a nice salad, some steamed vegetables and a glass of red wine for a delightful, easy and enjoyable dinner!

Buon Appetito