Bolognese sauce

In a large saucepan, heat 4 Tblsp. olive oil, add:

4 tblsp. chopped bacon (pre-cooked)

1 cup grated celery

1 cup grated onion

1/2 cup grated carrots

6 cloves smashed, minced garlic

Saute over med. heat until fragrant and vegetables are cooked & translucent.

Add 1# ground round & 1/2# ground veal or pork (or combination)

Continue cooking, breaking up meat as it browns, stirring often.

Once meat is cooked, add a large can (16 oz) of crushed tomatoes and a large can (16 oz.) of plum tomatoes (with juice), breaking up tomatoes .. and a small can (6 oz) of tomato paste. ( If desired, add a half cup of wine - I leave it out.)

Season with a couple tsps. of basil (fresh or dried), salt & pepper to taste, 1/2 tsp. oregano, couple tsps. of chopped parsley, a few shakes of cayenne.... Cover and simmer on med-low heat for 1-1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. Check for seasonings - stir in 1/2 cup cream (heavy cream or half and half) to sauce. Add some sauce to cooked pasta, tossing to cover - add more after plated. Serve with or without shaved parmesan cheese.