Slow-cooker Bolognese

 This is how I bolognese now. So easy!

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1kg Lean Beef Mince

1/2 cup dry red wine
700g bottle tomato passata
2 dried bay leaves
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
1 brown onion, finely chopped
1 large carrot, finely grated*
1 zucchini, finely grated*
2 tsp chicken stock powder
1/2 cup tomato paste
1 tsp sugar
500g dried pasta of your choice
Grated parmesan, to serve
Fresh basil leaves, to serve

Heat oil in a large frying pan (or slow cooker pan, if flame-proof) over medium-high heat. 

Add mince & cook, breaking up mince with a wooden spoon, for 8 minutes or until browned.

Add wine & cook for 2 minutes or until reduced by half.

Transfer mince mixture to a 5.5-litre slow cooker. 

Add passata, bay leaves, garlic, Italian herbs, onion, carrot, zucchini, stock powder, tomato paste, sugar and 1/4 cup water. 

Cover & cook on LOW for 8 hours.

Cook pasta following packet instructions.

Drain.

Serve bolognese on pasta, topped with parmesan and basil.

This bolognese is great for lasagne as well.

* Use veggies of your choice. Mushrooms diced are great as well.