Minced meat and sauce is a combination that is a versatile and flavourful addition to many dishes. It forms the basis for many traditional meals, from pasta to casseroles and more. In this article, we not only discuss how to make the perfect mince sauce, but also some recipes and delicacies you can prepare with this delicious mix of sauce and minced meat.
Basic recipe for sauce with minced meat
Here is a simple recipe for a classic mince sauce that you can use as a base for various dishes.
Ingredients
- 500 g mixed minced meat (beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 can (400 g) of diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (e.g. oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Optional: a splash of red wine
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and fry until translucent.
- Add the garlic and fry for a minute, until aromatic.
- Add the minced meat and fry until loose. Make sure the meat is well-done.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato puree. Add the sugar, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally and, if desired, add a splash of red wine for extra depth of flavour.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Variations on the basic sauce with minced meat
There are plenty of ways to customise your mince sauce. Here are some ideas:
1. Mince sauce with vegetables
Add extra vegetables like pepper, courgette or carrots for a healthier version. Cut the vegetables small and add them to the onion in step 1.
2. Spicy mince sauce
Use a mix of spices such as cumin, cayenne pepper, and paprika for a spicier sauce. This works particularly well in Mexican dishes such as tacos or burritos.
3. Sauce with minced meat and mushrooms
Add a handful of sliced mushrooms to the minced meat as you fry it. This adds a delicious earthy flavour to the sauce.
Spaghetti bolognese
Cook spaghetti according to the instructions on the packet. Mix the cooked pasta with the mince sauce and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Oven dish with delicious minced meat and sauce
Take an oven dish and put a layer of mince sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked pasta or mashed potatoes, followed by a layer of grated cheese. Bake in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius until the cheese is golden brown.
Nachos with mince sauce
Bake nachos in the oven and top with the sauce, sliced jalapeños, and grated cheese. Bake until cheese is melted and serve with guacamole and salsa.
Gold-fried meatballs
Mix some of the sauce with extra breadcrumbs, egg and spices to make meatballs. Bake these in the oven or in a pan for a delicious snack or meal.
Tasty tortilla’s
Take a tortilla and fill it with the minced meat sauce, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. Roll up the tortilla for a delicious lunch.
Minced meat with sauce is a fantastic base for a variety of dishes. With the right ingredients and preparation method, you can make a tasty and versatile sauce that will take your meals to the next level. Experiment with different variations and dishes to find the perfect combination to suit your taste. Enjoy your meal!