Not like the authentic Bolognese version. In many ways much, much more satisfying. Spaghetti alla Mamma Inglese is the ultimate in comfort food. Like a hug in a bowl, an excessive amount of shiny hot pasta and a mountain of tomatoey goodness. Packed with warmth, carbs, protein and veggies, this was my favourite childhood meal. Requested on play dates and special occasions. AND accessible on foreign holidays in the ’80s when everything else on the menu was unrecognisable to me! Always loyal to the superiority of the humble but mighty spag bol. Always a winner.

Onion
Garlic
Celery
Carrot
Minced beef (or vegetarian mince, lentils, mushrooms etc.)
Tin of crushed tomatoes/tomato passata
Squirt of tomato concentrate
Beef or vegetable stock cube
Option to add a glug of red wine for richer flavour
Basil
Spaghetti

All quantities are adjusted to taste or based on whatever you have left in the fridge. You will need a wide, fairly shallow pan for the bolognese ‘sauce’ and a large tall pan for the spaghetti.

Enjoy your cook. Cook this from the heart and you won’t be disappointed.
Chop all veggies very finely.
On the hob gently heat the onion and garlic until the onion pieces are iridescent.
Add the celery and carrot and heat through until starting to soften.
Make a big space in the pan and add the mince.
Turn the mince until it has browed all over.
Add the crushed tomatoes (or passata), a squirt of tomato concentrate and the stock cube. Add a little water. At this stage you could also add a glug of red wine if you would like. Stir all ingredients well and bring back to a simmer. Add a few shredded basil leaves and season. Then turn down the heat, cover and simmer very gently.

While this is cooking fill the taller pan with water and heat until boiling. Thrown in a pinch of rock salt and then add your dried spaghetti. Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on the instructions for the pasta you are using.

Drain and serve. Plate of plain spaghetti. Mountain of mince sauce in the middle and (if you’re lucky enough to live in a place where you can readily buy it) grated cheddar on top. Unbeatable. Thanks Mum.