Lunch: Veal Ragu with Gorgonzola

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds ground veal
2 tablespoons EVOO
Salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Freshly grated nutmeg
3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1 cup whole milk or light cream
1 cup dry white wine
4 ounces gorgonzola dolce cheese
1 to 1 1/2 pounds pappardelle or rigatoni (6 to 8 portions)
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, for passing

Instructions

Bring the veal to room temperature.
Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat with the EVOO. Pat dry the veal with paper towels, and add to the pot. Caramelize, brown and crumble the veal. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, the allspice and a few grates of nutmeg. Next add the garlic, carrots, onions, sage and thyme. Cook, partially covered, 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomato paste and stir until fragrant, 1 minute. Add the stock, milk, wine and gorgonzola. Reduce the heat and simmer at a low bubble for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Cool and store in the refrigerator for a make-ahead meal.
To serve, heat the ragu over medium heat while you bring a large pot of water to boil for the pasta. Salt the water and cook the pasta to al dente, reserving 1 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. Toss the pasta with the water and half of the sauce. Serve in shallow bowls, topped with the remaining ragu. Pass the grated cheese at the table.

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