Mac and cheese
History
Macaroni and cheese, colloquially known as mac and cheese, is a popular dish of English origin, consisting of cooked macaroni pasta and cheese, usually cheddar. Its origins can be traced back to the 14th century, where it was first recorded in the famous medieval English cookbook, the Forme of Cury.
The dish was brought to the United States by English immigrants, and it gained popularity in the 19th century. It was notably served by President Thomas Jefferson at a state dinner in 1802. By the mid-20th century, mac and cheese had become a classic American comfort food, thanks in part to the introduction of boxed mac and cheese by the food company Kraft in 1937.
Ingredients and Preparation
The basic recipe for mac and cheese involves cooking macaroni pasta and then mixing it with a cheese sauce. The sauce is typically made by creating a roux from butter and flour, to which milk is added. The mixture is heated until it thickens, and then cheese, usually cheddar, is melted into it.
The dish can be served as is, or it can be baked for a crispy top layer. When baking, the macaroni and cheese is often topped with additional cheese or breadcrumbs for added texture. Variations of the dish can include additional ingredients such as vegetables, meats, or spices.
Variations
There are numerous variations of mac and cheese, both within the United States and internationally. In the Southern United States, for example, it is common to add eggs to the cheese sauce, resulting in a custard-like consistency when the dish is baked.
In Canada, mac and cheese is often sold as a packaged dry product, similar to the boxed version sold by Kraft in the United States. In the United Kingdom, the dish is commonly referred to as "macaroni cheese" and may include additional ingredients like onions and tomatoes.
Nutritional Information
Mac and cheese is high in carbohydrates due to the pasta, and high in fat and protein due to the cheese. It is also typically high in sodium, particularly in pre-packaged versions of the dish. However, it can be made healthier by using whole grain pasta, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding vegetables.
Cultural Significance
Mac and cheese holds a significant place in American culture. It is often associated with comfort food and is a staple at gatherings and holidays. It is also a common dish in soul food, a style of cuisine associated with African-American culture in the United States.
The dish has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture. In recent years, gourmet versions of mac and cheese have become popular, with restaurants offering versions of the dish with high-end ingredients like truffle oil and lobster.