American Street Food - Mac and Cheese & Homemade Recipe

Macaroni and cheese, often referred to as "mac and cheese," has a rich history that dates back centuries. The dish has evolved over time and has become a popular comfort food in many cultures. Here's a brief history of mac and cheese:

• Origins in Italy (c. 13th Century): The earliest known recorded recipe for a dish similar to mac and cheese can be traced back to a 13th-century Italian cookbook called "Liber de Coquina." The recipe, known as "de lasanis," featured sheets of pasta dough cut into squares and cooked with grated cheese.

• Spread to Europe: As trade routes expanded, pasta and cheese dishes became more prevalent in European cuisine. By the 14th century, macaroni and cheese-like recipes were found in various European cookbooks.

• Colonial America: European immigrants brought their love for pasta and cheese dishes to America. Thomas Jefferson is often credited with popularizing mac and cheese in the United States. He encountered a similar dish while traveling in Italy and brought back a pasta machine, along with a recipe for "macaroni and cheese," to Monticello. The dish was served at a state dinner in 1802, solidifying its place in American culinary history.

• 19th Century: Macaroni and cheese gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. The affordability and accessibility of both pasta and cheese contributed to its widespread adoption as a comfort food.

• Kraft Macaroni & Cheese: In 1937, Kraft Foods introduced its iconic boxed macaroni and cheese product. It was an instant hit, especially during the Great Depression when affordable and convenient meals were in high demand. The product's popularity continued to grow after World War II.

• Evolution and Variations: Over the years, mac and cheese has evolved, and numerous variations have emerged. From gourmet versions with different cheeses and added ingredients to creative twists like baked mac and cheese, the dish has become a versatile comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages.

Today, mac and cheese remains a beloved classic, served in homes, restaurants, and various forms worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its simple yet satisfying combination of pasta and cheese.

Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 2 1/2 cups milk (whole milk works best)
• 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)

Instructions:

• Cook the Pasta:
  • Cook the macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.

• Make the Cheese Sauce:
  • In the same pot (or a separate saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the flour, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and onion powder (if using). Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux (a thickening mixture).
  • Gradually whisk in the milk to ensure a smooth consistency. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, usually 3-5 minutes.

• Add the Cheese:
  • Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheese to the sauce, reserving a small amount for topping if desired. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

• Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
  • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

• Serve:
  • If you reserved some cheese, sprinkle it on top.
  • Serve the mac and cheese hot. You can garnish it with additional black pepper, chopped parsley, or breadcrumbs for some texture if you like.

Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese! Feel free to customize it by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

I recommend you to watch these Mac&Cheese recipe videos;

How to Make Mac and Cheese;

The Best Mac and Cheese 3 Ways;

Amazing Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe;

Easy 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese Recipe;

The Best Mac and Cheese You'll Ever Eat;

References;

1.  Raffald, Elizabeth (1769). The experienced English housekeeper. Manchester : J. Harrop for the author, etc. p. 261.
2. "Macaroni cheese recipe". BBC Food. Archived from the original on 2023-03-08. Retrieved 2023-12-16.
3. Moskin, Julia (4 January 2006). "Macaroni and Lots of Cheese". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 20 May 2016. Retrieved 30 January 2009.
4. "Perfect Macaroni and Cheese". Martha Stewart Living. 66 (February 1999). Archived from the original on July 20, 2019. Retrieved September 22, 2012.
5. Joseph, Dana (10 May 2012). "American food: the 50 greatest dishes". CNN Travel. Archived from the original on 21 May 2013. Retrieved 12 June 2014.
6. James L. Matterer. "Makerouns". Godecookery.com. Archived from the original on 2018-10-20. Retrieved 2010-10-20.
7. "The Forme Of Cury". Gutenberg.org. Archived from the original on 2018-08-01. Retrieved 2014-02-27.

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