Rigatoni with Spicy Calabrese-Style Pork Ragù

Must Try

Rigatoni with Spicy Calabrese-Style Pork Ragù

Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of Italian cuisine with this mouthwatering recipe for Rigatoni with Spicy Calabrese-Style Pork Ragù. This dish, deeply rooted in Calabrese culinary traditions, merges tender pieces of pork with a tantalizing blend of spices, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a hearty sauce that clings beautifully to the ridged pasta.

Ingredients

To recreate this sumptuous meal, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb (450g) ground pork
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1-2 tsp Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Grated Pecorino Romano cheese, for serving

Cooking Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.

  2. Brown the Pork: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground pork to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart. Cook until the pork is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Ensure to season with salt and pepper during cooking for flavor.

  3. Build the Ragù: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Calabrian chili paste, oregano, and basil. If you’re using red wine, pour it in now. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if necessary.

  4. Cook the Pasta: While the ragù is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

  5. Combine the Dish: Once the rigatoni is cooked and drained, add it directly to the ragù. Toss the pasta in the sauce, incorporating it well. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it, allowing the sauce to cling better to the pasta.

  6. Serve: Plate the rigatoni and spoon additional ragù over the top. Garnish with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Enjoy your meal with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete experience.

Cooking Tips

  • Ingredient Selection: Use high-quality pork for the ragù, preferably a blend of shoulder and ground pork for added flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste, so opt for fresh basil when possible.
  • Adjusting Spice Levels: The Calabrian chili paste provides a vibrant kick. Start with one teaspoon and gradually add more according to your spice tolerance.
  • Flavor Development: Allow the ragù to simmer for longer if time permits. The longer it cooks, the more intense and developed the flavors become.
  • Pasta Alternatives: If rigatoni isn’t available, feel free to substitute with other pasta types like penne or fusilli.

Food Photography Ideas

For an appealing presentation, consider serving the dish in rustic bowls topped with vibrant basil leaves and a sprinkle of cheese. Capture the steam rising from the bowl to evoke warmth. A well-lit kitchen or dinner table setting can create an inviting backdrop, showcasing the dish’s rich colors.

Pairing Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or a Nero d’Avola, which complements the spicy notes in the ragù. A simple arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette also adds a refreshing contrast to the meal.

By making this Rigatoni with Spicy Calabrese-Style Pork Ragù, you’re treating your palate to an authentic taste of Italy. Feel free to experiment with your spices or add vegetables to the ragù. Enjoy the process and inspired creation in your very own kitchen!

If this recipe has whetted your appetite for more gourmet experiences, keep an eye out for additional culinary creations. Try this dish and don’t hesitate to share your experience or subscribe for more delicious insights!

- Visit Our Sponsors -
- Coming Soon -

Latest Recipes

- Coming Soon -

Find a recipe