Turnip Noodles With Beef Ragú

Turnip noodles slathered in a rich beef ragù is the ultimate comfort meal, combining the earthy sweetness of turnips with the deep savory flavors of a slow-cooked ragù. This dish is a favorite in our kitchen, particularly because we use high-quality beef from our favorite local rancher and tomatoes that were lovingly canned last fall. It's a meal that’s delicious and brings a sense of connection to the seasons and our community. Whether you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative to pasta or just want to try something new, these turnip noodles with beef ragù are sure to impress.

Ingredients

Beef Ragú

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
• 1 pound ground beef
• 3/4 cup dry red wine
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Minced parsley for serving

Turnip Noodles

• 2 large turnips, spiralized (can substitute with zucchini noodles or regular pasta)

Directions

Prepare the Beef Ragú

1. Heat the Oil:
   Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables and Herbs:
   Add the minced garlic, chopped carrot, celery, and thyme to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant, about 1 minute longer. This combination of vegetables and herbs forms the aromatic base of the ragù, imparting layers of flavor.
3. Brown the Beef:
   Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat up with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Browning the beef well is key to developing a rich, deep flavor in the sauce.
4. Deglaze with Wine:
   Pour in the dry red wine and add the tomato paste. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to simmer until most of the liquid evaporates, about 4 minutes. The wine adds acidity and depth, while the tomato paste thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
5. Simmer with Tomatoes:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the ragù simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the sauce will thicken and become wonderfully fragrant.

Cook the Turnip Noodles

1. Heat the Oil:
   While the ragù simmers, prepare the turnip noodles. Heat a little olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the Noodles:
   Add the spiralized turnip noodles to the skillet. Cook the noodles, tossing them frequently with tongs, until they are tender but retain a bit of their crispness, about 3-5 minutes. The turnips should be soft enough to absorb the flavors of the ragù but firm enough to hold their shape.
3. Set Aside:
   Remove the turnip noodles from the heat and set them aside. If you prefer, you can substitute them with zucchini noodles or traditional pasta.

Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Noodles:
   Divide the cooked turnip noodles (or noodles of your choice) between serving bowls.
2. Add the Ragú:
   Generously spoon the beef ragù over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets plenty of the rich sauce.
3. Garnish:
   Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of minced parsley. The cheese adds a salty richness, while the parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: The beef ragù can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, which can be used to soak up any extra sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ragù.
• Customization: Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the ragù for additional flavor and nutrition. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or more thyme for an herbal kick.

These Turnip Noodles With Beef Ragú are a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish. They offer a satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends, knowing it’s as nourishing as it is delicious!