Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti: 5 Comforting Secrets

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Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. Combining traditional Bolognese elements with Asian flavors creates a rich and satisfying meal. The blend of ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and soy sauce results in a creamy sauce without the need for cream. Using pantry staples common in Asian cuisine makes this dish not only comforting but also easy to prepare for a busy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into how to make this unique fusion dish!

Why You’ll Love This Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

This recipe is sure to become a family favorite for several reasons. First, the Hong Kong spaghetti Bolognese is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a hearty meal. Second, the use of ingredients like oyster sauce and Shaoxing wine gives the Bolognese sauce an Asian twist that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Additionally, it’s a quick Bolognese spaghetti recipe that can be ready in under 65 minutes, perfect for busy families. You can also make it ahead for meal prep, and it’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary preferences. Lastly, its versatility allows for unique Bolognese variations in Hong Kong, ensuring there’s something for everyone!

Ingredients for Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion, minced
2 carrots, finely diced
2 celery stems, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cooked spaghetti (tagliatelle, pappardelle, or your favorite pasta)
Grated parmesan cheese (or mixed shredded cheese)
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ground beef and spread with a spatula. Cook for at least 1 minute without touching until browned. Break up the meat into small pieces and cook until charred.
Step 2: Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in Shaoxing wine, scraping the bottom for brown bits. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oyster sauce, soy sauce, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Once simmering, cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2 hours until the sauce thickens and beef is tender.
Step 5: In the Instant Pot, pour in olive oil and heat. Add ground beef, allowing it to brown for 5 minutes. Break into smaller chunks and brown the surface, then cancel sauté mode.
Step 6: Add crushed tomatoes and scrape the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Add remaining ingredients: onion, carrots, celery, garlic, tomato paste, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
Step 8: Seal the Instant Pot, set to Manual high pressure for 25 minutes. Use natural release for 8 minutes, then fast release the steam.
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves, stir, and serve with pasta.

Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti: 5 Comforting Secrets - Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is great for meal prep.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
For a spicier kick, consider adding chili flakes to the sauce.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

There are many delightful ways to enjoy this dish. You can serve it topped with grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. For an authentic touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with a side of garlic bread or a light Asian-style salad to balance the meal.

How to Store and Reheat Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

To store, simply place the cooled spaghetti and sauce in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti

What’s the secret to perfect Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti?

The secret lies in the careful balance of flavors. Using high-quality ground beef and allowing the sauce to simmer for a long time ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully. The addition of Asian ingredients like soy sauce enhances the overall taste, making it unique.

Can I make Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti ahead of time?

Definitely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cook your spaghetti fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti?

To avoid common mistakes, don’t skip browning the meat thoroughly, as this adds depth to the flavor. Also, be patient while simmering the sauce to allow it to thicken properly. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.

Variations of Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti You Can Try

Feel free to explore different variations of this dish. You can make it vegetarian by substituting ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, or use chicken for a lighter option. Another great idea is to incorporate local ingredients like bok choy or shiitake mushrooms for an authentic taste.

Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti: 5 Comforting Secrets - Hong Kong Bolognese Spaghetti - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Creamy Garlic Crab Stuffed. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, you might also enjoy Creamy Parmesan Italian Beef.