Let’s face it, great food is symbolic of love. So, for Valentine’s day why not show that special person just how much you love them by knocking up this awesome dish from Mimmo Ruggiero, the head chef of La Bellezza. 

Ingredients for the Genovese sauce 

• 3 types of onions (this is very important!): 2 red onions, 1 white onion, 1 yellow onion

• Meat: Pork or beef cuts such as pork shoulder, shank, knee, or cheek. Use any fatty scraps you have on hand. This dish is all about utilising every part of the animal.

• 1 glass of red wine

• ½ tablespoon of tomato paste

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 bay leaf

Method: 

In a large pot, sear your chosen meat cuts over medium heat until browned, pour in the glass of red wine and let it simmer until reduced, leaving behind a rich flavour. Cut the onions into large chunks and add them to the pot. Stir well.

Add the tomato paste for a touch of colour and mix it in thoroughly, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick. Show it some love! Add salt, pepper, and a bay leaf during cooking to enhance the flavours. Once the sauce reaches a creamy rich consistency, it’s ready.

Now cook your favourite pasta, ideally ‘Ziti’, and toss it with the Genovese sauce.