Ragù alla Napoletana

What is Ragù alla Napoletana?

Ragù alla Napoletana is a hearty sauce made from beef, pork chops, salsiccia (a type of sausage) and strained or peeled tomatoes. The ingredients are slowly cooked in a large pot with onions, lard, red wine, basil and salt until the meat is tender and the sauce is thick. The cooking time can be several hours, some Neapolitans even leave their ragù to simmer for 24 hours to intensify the flavor. Ragù is a very old dish that was already known in Naples in the 18th century. It was influenced by the Spanish, who ruled over southern Italy at the time.

Advantages and disadvantages for dogs

Ragù alla Napoletana is a feast for meat lovers, but is it also good for dogs? The answer is: it depends. On the one hand, ragù contains a lot of protein and iron, which are important for dogs' health and growth. On the other hand, ragù can also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of.

Advantages

• Protein: The meat in ragù provides plenty of high-quality protein, which is essential for dogs' muscles, immune system and cell function. Protein also helps to satisfy hunger and control weight.
• Iron: The meat in ragù is also a good source of iron, a mineral responsible for the formation of red blood cells and oxygen transportation in the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia and weakness.
• Tomatoes: The tomatoes in ragù contain lycopene, an antioxidant that protects against free radicals and can reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. Tomatoes also have a high water content, which contributes to hydration.

Disadvantages

• Fat: The meat in ragù can be very high in fat, especially if it is not defatted. Too much fat can lead to obesity, digestive problems and pancreatitis. High-fat foods can also increase cholesterol levels and put a strain on the heart.
• Salt: Ragù is often seasoned with salt to improve the taste. However, too much salt can be harmful to dogs as it increases blood pressure and leads to dehydration. Salt can also lead to kidney problems and poisoning.
• Onions: The onions in ragù are toxic to dogs because they contain thiosulfate, a substance that destroys red blood cells and leads to anemia. Onions can also cause stomach irritation and vomiting.
• Wine: The wine in ragù is also dangerous for dogs as it contains alcohol, which damages the nervous system and can lead to respiratory distress, coma and death. Wine can also contain grapes, which are also toxic to dogs.