Mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by generations. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a staple in kitchens all around the world. From the United States to Canada, England to Australia, mac and cheese is a beloved dish that is enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
While mac and cheese may have originated in Italy, it was actually the English who popularized this dish. In the 18th century, macaroni and cheese became a popular dish in England thanks to the introduction of macaroni, a type of pasta that was imported from Italy. The dish was served in high-end restaurants and quickly became a favorite among the upper class.
In England, mac and cheese is typically made with a combination of cheddar cheese and macaroni pasta. The cheese is melted into a creamy sauce that is then poured over the cooked pasta. Some variations may also include other types of cheese or additional ingredients such as bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables.
One of the key elements of a great mac and cheese recipe is the cheese sauce. To create a thick and creamy sauce, it’s important to use quality ingredients and to avoid overcooking the cheese. To make the sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes until it turns a light golden color.
Next, slowly whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir the mixture until it starts to thicken. Add in grated cheddar cheese, a little bit at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Once the cheese sauce is ready, it’s time to cook the macaroni pasta. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the macaroni and cook it for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s tender but still slightly firm.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese and place the dish under the broiler until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
While mac and cheese may seem like a simple dish, there are many different variations and methods for preparing it. Some people prefer their mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping, while others like to add bacon or vegetables for extra flavor. No matter how you like your mac and cheese, one thing is for sure - this dish is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 375g macaroni
- 50g unsalted butter
- 50g plain flour
- 600ml whole milk
- 1 tsp English mustard
- 225g grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper
- 50g breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly. Cook for 2 minutes, still stirring.
- Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly. Add the mustard and continue to stir until the sauce thickens.
- Take the saucepan off the heat and add the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until completely coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs have turned golden brown.
- Serve immediately.