Spinach and Parmesan Meatballs in Ragu

Cook 1 small carrot, finely chopped, , 1 stick of celery finely chopped, 4 cloves garlic, 1 small onion for 4-5mins. Add 2 x 400g can chopped tomatoes and 100ml water. Season and simmer with pan covered for 15 mins.

Pour boiling water over 250g spinach leaves in a colander. squeeze water and chop finely. Put 600g minced beef in a bowl, add spinach, 50g stale breadcrumbs, 25g finely grated parmesan, pinch of chilli flakes, chopped bunch of flat leaves parsly, 1 lightly beaten medium egg and season.

Mix with hands until combined. Roll into walnut sized balls and drop in the tomato sauce - shake into the sauce (don't stir as they will break) and cook 35-40mins until balls are cooked through and sauce is reduced and thickened.