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Italian Bolognese, or Ragù alla Bolognese, is a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce originating from Bologna, Italy. It is traditionally made with a base of finely chopped soffritto (onion, celery, carrot), ground beef and pork, tomatoes, and wine, and is most famously served with tagliatelle pasta rather than spaghetti.
This dish is a balanced source of protein from the meat and carbohydrates from the pasta, with a moderate amount of fat. A typical serving provides a good amount of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, and generally contains around 500-700 calories per plate.
Authentic Bolognese is a very meat-forward sauce with minimal tomato, a stark contrast to many international versions. The traditional recipe's slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld deeply, creating a complex and savory profile that is a cornerstone of Italian culinary heritage.