Description
A rich, savory minced meat sauce simmered with tomatoes, onions, and herbs — perfect for pasta, rice, or stuffing vegetables. This hearty sauce combines ground beef or lamb with aromatic garlic and onions, enhanced by tomato paste and herbs to create a versatile and satisfying meal base.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, lamb, or mixed mince
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato Base and Spices
- 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Red-pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatic vegetables.
- Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Brown the Minced Meat: Add the ground beef, lamb, or mixed mince to the pan. Cook it while breaking up any clumps until the meat is evenly browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Base: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and canned diced tomatoes to build the sauce’s rich flavor foundation.
- Season and Simmer: Mix in dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until it thickens and all flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley or red-pepper flakes if desired, and serve the sauce hot over pasta, rice, or stuffed vegetables.
Notes
- This minced meat sauce is versatile—ideal for spaghetti, lasagna, or stuffed bell peppers.
- The sauce freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For a spicier variation, add more red-pepper flakes during the simmering step.
- Ground lamb can be substituted for beef for a slightly richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
