Homemade pork leg ravioli with tomato sauce

This hearty homemade ravioli features tender ground pork leg and a rich tomato sauce for an indulgent Italian-inspired meal. The ravioli dough is made from scratch, creating perfect pockets filled with savory pork, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese, all topped with a robust tomato sauce.

Cut:

Ingredients

For the pasta dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the pork filling

  • 400g ground pork leg
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the tomato sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Method

Make the pasta dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Prepare the filling: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground pork leg and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. In a bowl, combine the cooked pork mixture with chopped herbs, parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and sugar. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the ravioli: Roll out the pasta dough on a floured surface until very thin. Cut into even squares (about 7cm x 7cm). Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of half the squares. Brush the edges with water and cover with another pasta square. Press firmly around the edges to seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside.

Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for 3-4 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve: Plate the ravioli and top with the warm tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated parmesan if desired.

Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.