Freezer-friendly bolognese base

Ingredients

For 6 portions. Tick items as you go — nothing is changed for anyone else.

Amounts are converted from the metric original and rounded to measures you can use at home. Cups are US cups (240 ml) and oven temperatures include Fahrenheit.

• 500 g lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 2 sticks celery sticks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 x 400g tins canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 150 ml beef broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano

This recipe contains foods that can contribute to a varied and balanced diet during pregnancy.

Method

1. 1Step 1. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the onion, carrot and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. 2Step 2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. 3Step 3. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up, until browned all over with no pink meat remaining.
4. 4Step 4. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato purée, broth and oregano.
5. 5Step 5. Simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
6. 6Step 6. Check the ground meat is steaming hot and fully cooked throughout.
7. 7Step 7. Season to taste, then cool quickly and divide into freezer-safe containers.
8. 8Step 8. Freeze flat in portions; defrost fully and reheat until steaming hot before serving with pasta.

Allergens for your selection

• Contains: Celery

Ingredient brands and substitutions can change allergen content. Always check the labels on the products you buy.