Indulge in our Ostrich Spaghetti Bolognese, a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. This version uses lean ostrich meat, bringing a unique flavor to the rich tomato-based sauce, perfectly complemented by a blend of herbs and spices.
Quick Facts:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Serves: 6
- Nutritional Highlight: High in protein, low in fat
Ingredients List:
- 2 lbs ground ostrich meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Cooked spaghetti
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté Vegetables: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Brown the Meat: Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground ostrich meat. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
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Deglaze: (Optional) Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
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Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Finish with Milk: Stir in the milk and simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Serve: Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Variations: Mix some ground pork or beef with the ostrich for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage for a bit of heat.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete Italian meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 380 per serving
- Total Fat: 3g
- Protein: 26g
Try This At Home: Our Ostrich Spaghetti Bolognese is a delightful way to enjoy a classic pasta dish with a healthier, leaner meat option. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this dish will satisfy your cravings for Italian cuisine. Share your cooking experience in the comments below!