A Delicious Bolognese Recipe for Your Stay at Exhale.
If you’re planning a stay at Exhale, why not treat yourself to a comforting, homemade meal? Our luxurious retreat in the Adelaide Hills offers the perfect setting for a cozy evening, and there's nothing quite like a rich, hearty Bolognese sauce to make your stay even more enjoyable. Here’s a delicious recipe to try during your visit, and tips on how to elevate your meal with a local red wine.
Ingredients
- 500g beef mince** (or a mix of beef and pork for added richness)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 400g can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine** (optional, but recommended for depth of flavour)
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti, tagliatelle, etc.)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cook the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef mince. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavour. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, and beef stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Season and Simmer: Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavours will develop.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce until well coated. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairing Your Bolognese with Local Red Wine
To enhance your Bolognese experience, consider pairing your meal with a fine red wine from one of our esteemed local wineries. Just a short drive from Exhale, you can find excellent options:
Anderson Hill Wines: Known for their exceptional reds, Anderson Hill offers a delightful range of wines perfect for complementing your meal. Their robust Shiraz or a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon would pair beautifully with the richness of the Bolognese.
Paracombe Wines: Explore Paracombe’s selection of red wines, including their elegant Pinot Noir or full-bodied Shiraz. These wines will add a touch of local flavour to your dinner.
Mt Bera: With their extensive range of estate-grown wines, Mt Bera’s reds are a great choice for pairing. Try their Shiraz or Merlot for a match made in culinary heaven.
Cooking a delicious Bolognese while staying at Exhale is just one way to enjoy your time at our retreat. With our luxurious amenities and the beautiful Adelaide Hills as your backdrop, every meal becomes a special occasion. Pair your Bolognese with a local red wine for the ultimate dining experience. Book your stay today and discover how Exhale can make your culinary adventures truly memorable.