Pasta con Sugo di Carne (Meat sauce), Calabria
Brutti ma buoni, is the perfect description for this pasta sauce. Translation? Ugly but delicious, is what you call Pasta that breaks apart, but would never be thrown away. Especially when it's covered in a flavorful meat sauce, that doesn't have to cook all day long. After a trip to Calabria, to visit cousins, I was told, this Ragu' has it's roots in Calabria. Traveling about in Italy, you might find similar versions. In Calabria, it is always served with "Pasta fatta in Casa," or Home made pasta made in a tubular shape. In much the same way, my Mother made this dish, I found a few sausages and a pork chop in the freezer. Lucky for me, I have a good memory. A little onion for garlic, some olive oil is all you need. I am sure this dish has it's roots in Naples too , as my Nonna Barbara, would often throw together Ragu's in much the same way. The browning of the meat, directly in the pan, creates a richness to this Ragu...