Kathleen Galante, Chef-Owner New Gladstone Market, Gladstone

This is a favorite recipe of mine to serve to family and friends with a mixed green salad, a loaf of crusty bread and a glass of Italian red wine. The ultimate comfort food!

1 pound high-quality ground beef
1/2 pound lean ground pork
4 ounces smoked Italian ham (pancetta)
1 large minced onion
1/2 cup minced celery (strings removed)
1/2 cup minced carrots
4 cloves minced garlic
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup milk
2 pounds Italian canned plum tomatoes with liquid
2 cups natural beef stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
3 bay leaves

In a large saucepan, heat butter and olive oil. Add pancetta and cook about 4 minutes until fat is rendered. Add onion, garlic, carrots and celery over low heat. Sweat the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes.

Add the ground meat and cook over low heat, breaking up meat with a fork. Add the salt and pepper. Add the milk and simmer gently.

Stir until milk is completely evaporated. Add wine and simmer until evaporated. Add the tomatoes, stock, bay leaves and thyme.

Simmer slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 2 hours, partially covered. If sauce becomes too thick, add water whenever necessary.

Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add salt. Cook your favorite pasta. Add the sauce and serve immediately. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. (Serves 6–8.)

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