3

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  • dinners

Reinforcement Ravioli Ragù

If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests with a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting, look no further than our Reinforcement Ravioli Ragù. This recipe combines the delicate, homemade ravioli filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, smothered in a rich, meaty ragù that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish embodies the heart and soul of Italian cuisine while adding a unique twist that elevates it above the rest.

  • SERVES
    4 people
  • PREP TIME
    1 hour
  • Cook TIME
    2 hours
Ingredients

For the Ravioli:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Ragù:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions

  1. Prepare the Pasta Dough: In a large mixing bowl, create a mound with the flour and make a well in the center. Crack in the eggs and add a pinch of salt. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.

  3. Roll Out the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece out as thin as possible using a pasta machine or a rolling pin.

  4. Assemble the Ravioli: Place small tablespoons of the filling on one sheet of dough, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Wet the edges with water, then place another sheet of dough on top. Press down around the filling to seal and cut the ravioli into squares. Set aside.

  5. Prepare the Ragù: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

  6. Add the Sauce Ingredients: Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

  7. Cook the Ravioli: Boil a large pot of salted water. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

  8. Serve: Drain the ravioli and plate them with a generous ladle of the ragù on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Reinforcement Ravioli Ragù is a dish that marries tradition with creativity, making it a standout choice for any pasta lover. The homemade ravioli, filled with a luscious mixture of ricotta and spinach, is a nod to classic Italian cooking, but the addition of a hearty, meaty ragù takes it to the next level. The ragù itself is deeply flavorful, thanks to the combination of ground beef and pork, complemented by the acidity of crushed tomatoes and the richness of red wine.

"The inspiration for this dish comes from my travels in Northern Italy, where I discovered that the secret to a great ragù is patience. Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that’s worth every minute."

What sets this recipe apart from typical versions is the careful balance between the delicate ravioli and the robust ragù. While many recipes lean heavily on either the pasta or the sauce, this dish harmonizes the two, ensuring that each bite is an explosion of flavor. The addition of fresh basil as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

This Reinforcement Ravioli Ragù is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for those who want to dive into the world of homemade pasta, it invites you to savor every moment, from preparation to the final bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try, and you may just find yourself becoming a pasta-making aficionado!

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