Genovese Sauce

Forget everything you know about ragu—Genovese sauce is in a league of its own. This slow-cooked ragù from Naples is an exquisite blend of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, comforting dish. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week ahead, Genovese sauce offers a unique sweetness and depth that elevates any pasta dish. With tender meat and a luscious onion base, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process melds the ingredients together, creating a deep and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over ziti pasta or use it as a filling for lasagna or stuffed peppers.
• Comforting Meal: Ideal for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends and family.
• Easy Preparation: Once you set it to cook, you can relax while it simmers to perfection.
• Make Ahead Friendly: The sauce freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Food processor
• Wooden spoon
• Mandoline or onion slicer
• Large pot

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Perfect for slow cooking; retains heat evenly for tender results.
• Food processor: Saves time by blending your soffritto ingredients effortlessly.
• Mandoline or onion slicer: Ensures uniform slices of onions for even cooking.

Ingredients

• 1/4 brown onion (quarter)
• 1 small carrot
• 1 stick of celery
• 4 bay leaves
• 1 mug of water
• 600 g / 21.2 oz chuck steak
• 300 g / 10.6 oz chicken rashers
• 1.3 kg / 45.8 oz brown onions
• 1 glass white grape juice (about 150ml)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
• Salt & pepper
• 300 g / 10.6 oz ziti pasta (or as much as you like)
• Pecorino Romano (to taste)

How to Make Genovese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Cut the brown onions in half and use a mandoline or onion slicer to slice them into thin pieces. Soak the slices in a bowl of water to help reduce the sharpness and minimize tears.

Step 2: Make the Soffritto

Roughly chop ¼ of a brown onion, the carrot, and celery into small pieces. Add them to a food processor with a generous amount of EVOO and a splash of water. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Cut the Meat

Cut the large pieces of beef chuck and chicken rashers into small, even-sized chunks, then set them aside.

Step 4: Cook the Soffritto

Place your Dutch oven over medium heat, add about 3 tablespoons of EVOO, and pour in the blended soffritto mix. Cook for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.

Step 5: Brown the Meat

Add the chopped meat to the pan and stir to combine with the soffritto. Increase heat to medium-high and brown the meat, covering with a lid to steam for about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Season

Add salt and pepper (not too much) and toss in the 4 bay leaves. Cover with lid and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.

Step 7: Deglaze

Pour in the white grape juice to deglaze the pan, letting it cook uncovered for about 5 minutes until reduced.

Step 8: Mix in Onions

Add in the soaked sliced onions. Gently mix to combine and bring some meat to the surface. Season again with salt and pepper as needed. Cover with lid and cook on low heat for about 4 hours, stirring every half hour.

Step 9: Reduce Sauce

After 4 hours, remove lid; continue cooking uncovered on low heat for another 2 hours until thickened.

Step 10: Shred Meat

Once thick, gently squash meat using a spoon or spatula to pull apart. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 11: Cook Ziti Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to boil; add 1 tablespoon salt, then cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining pasta.

Step 12: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a medium-sized pan, add desired amount of Genovese ragù. Once pasta is al dente, transfer it to this pan; stir well to coat. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve creamier texture then toss well before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Genovese sauce!

How to Serve Genovese Sauce

Genovese sauce is a rich and savory delight that pairs perfectly with various dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your culinary experience.

With Ziti Pasta

• This classic pairing allows the sauce to cling beautifully to each piece of pasta, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Over Polenta

• Creamy polenta provides a delightful base for Genovese sauce, adding a smooth texture that complements the robust flavors.

As a Meat Sauce

• Use the Genovese sauce as a hearty topping for grilled chicken or beef. It adds depth and flavor that transforms simple meats into gourmet meals.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the sauce with slices of crusty bread for dipping. This makes for a wonderful appetizer or side dish that captures every bit of the delicious sauce.

On Pizza

• Spread some Genovese sauce over pizza dough before adding cheese and toppings. It gives an unexpected twist to your pizza night!

In Stuffed Vegetables

• Use it as a filling in stuffed bell peppers or zucchini boats. The sauce infuses the vegetables with flavor and creates a satisfying dish.

How to Perfect Genovese Sauce

Creating the perfect Genovese sauce requires attention to detail and time. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce turns out exquisite every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, vegetables, and high-quality meat enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Slow cooking allows flavors to develop deeply, making your sauce richer and more complex.
• Season gradually: Adding salt and pepper at different stages helps you control the flavor better.
• Avoid overcrowding the pot: Browning meat in batches prevents steaming, allowing for better caramelization.
• Let it rest: Allowing the cooked sauce to sit for a while enhances its flavor profile.
• Adjust consistency with pasta water: When mixing with pasta, use reserved water to achieve the desired creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Genovese Sauce

Serving side dishes alongside Genovese sauce can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this rich sauce perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic favorite, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up delicious sauce remnants from your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the sauce.
3. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty Genovese sauce.
4. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch and vibrant green color to your table setting.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light side that pairs well with the heaviness of Genovese sauce.
6. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a great base for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
7. Ratatouille
   This vegetable medley brings brightness and layers of flavor that enhance your dining experience with Genovese sauce.
8. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition while providing a mild flavor that won’t overpower the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Genovese sauce, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking sliced onions can lead to tears and a stronger flavor. Soak them in water before cooking to minimize sharpness.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Genovese sauce requires slow cooking for rich flavors. Avoid turning up the heat; instead, give it plenty of time to simmer gently.
• Over seasoning Early: Adding too much salt or pepper at the beginning can overpower the dish. Season gradually throughout cooking for balanced flavor.
• Neglecting to Stir: Failing to stir occasionally can cause ingredients to stick and burn. Make it a habit to check and stir every 30 minutes.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water means losing an opportunity for a creamier sauce. Always set some aside before draining your pasta.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the sauce to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Genovese Sauce

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Genovese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over low heat, stir occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Genovese Sauce?

Genovese sauce is a slow-cooked Italian sauce made primarily with onions, meat, and spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.

Can I use different meats in Genovese Sauce?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes may vary, you can substitute chicken or beef with turkey or lamb based on your preference.

How long does Genovese Sauce last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I customize Genovese Sauce?

Yes! Feel free to adjust spices or add vegetables according to your taste preferences while keeping the fundamentals intact.

Is Genovese Sauce healthy?

When made with fresh ingredients and lean meats, Genovese sauce can be part of a balanced diet while offering rich flavors.

Conclusion

Genovese sauce stands out as a deliciously rich alternative to traditional ragù. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, this sauce is perfect for ziti pasta but also versatile enough for other dishes. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite meats or vegetables. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that warms both heart and home.