Andy Montoya
Macaroni and cheese, also known as 'mac and cheese' or 'macaroni cheese', is a popular dish worldwide. It is made by covering macaroni with a cheese sauce, usually cheddar, and is often baked in the oven. But where does this comforting, indulgent dish fit into the food pyramid? The food pyramid is a representation of the optimal number of servings to be eaten each day from each of the basic food groups. The first food pyramid was introduced in Sweden in 1974, and since then, many countries have developed their own versions. The food pyramid has since been replaced by MyPlate in some countries, including the US. MyPlate depicts larger portions of grains and vegetables and smaller portions of fruits and proteins. Mac and cheese contain both grains and dairy, which are recommended to be eaten in moderate amounts according to MyPlate. However, the dish is also high in fat and salt, which should be limited in a healthy diet. Therefore, while mac and cheese can be part of a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Food group | Macaroni and cheese is a combination of two food groups: starch and dairy. |
| Starch group | Macaroni is a type of pasta, which falls under the starch group, including wholemeal cereals, breads, potatoes, and rice. |
| Dairy group | Cheese is a dairy product, which falls under the dairy group, along with milk and yogurt. |
| Nutrition | Macaroni and cheese can provide dietary calcium, protein, phosphorus, vitamin A, and vitamin D. However, it is also high in saturated fat and cholesterol. |
| Serving recommendation | As a combination of starch and dairy, macaroni and cheese can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. |
| History | The dish has origins in medieval England, with recipes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. It gained popularity in North America during the Depression and World War II due to its affordability and accessibility. |
| Variations | Various recipes and presentations exist, including baked, fried, and packaged versions, as well as regional variations like the Scottish macaroni pie and the Swiss Älplermagronen. |
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What You'll Learn
Macaroni and cheese is a pasta dish
Macaroni and cheese, colloquially known as mac and cheese, is a pasta dish consisting of macaroni covered in cheese sauce. Its origins can be traced back to cheese and pasta casseroles in medieval England. The traditional method of preparation involves baking the dish in an oven, but it can also be cooked on a stovetop or deep-fried.
The earliest known recipe for macaroni and cheese was included in Elizabeth Raffald's 1769 book, "The Experienced English Housekeeper." Raffald's recipe calls for a Béchamel sauce with cheddar cheese (known as a Mornay sauce in French cooking), which is mixed with macaroni, sprinkled with Parmesan, and baked to a golden finish. Over time, various recipes for macaroni and cheese have emerged, with some adding ingredients like butter, cream, eggs, and different types of cheese such as Colby, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère.
In the 19th century, a traditional Swiss dish called Älplermagronen, or Alpine herder's macaroni, became popular. It consists of macaroni, cream, cheese, roasted onions, and sometimes potatoes, bacon, or ham. During this time, macaroni and cheese recipes also began to appear in cookbooks in the United States, such as Mary Randolph's influential 1824 cookbook, "The Virginia House-Wife."
Macaroni and cheese has become a widespread dish in the United Kingdom, served as a meal or a side dish in both fast food and upmarket restaurants. It gained popularity in the United States and Canada during the economic hardships of the Depression, with the introduction of packaged macaroni and cheese. Today, it is often considered a comfort food and can be found in various forms, from frozen to freshly prepared versions in restaurants and homes worldwide.
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It is made with cheese sauce, typically cheddar
Macaroni and cheese, colloquially known as mac and cheese, is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce, typically cheddar sauce. Its origins can be traced back to cheese and pasta casseroles in medieval England. The traditional preparation method involves baking the dish in an oven, but it can also be prepared on a stovetop.
The cheese sauce, or Mornay sauce, is a key component of macaroni and cheese. This sauce is typically made with cheddar cheese, resulting in a creamy and savoury dish. The sharpness of cheddar adds a distinct flavour to the sauce. While cheddar is the most common variety of cheese used, other types such as Colby, Monterey Jack, Fontina, Pepper Jack, or Gruyère can also be incorporated to create a unique blend of flavours.
The process of making the cheese sauce involves melting shredded cheese and mixing it with other ingredients to achieve the desired consistency and taste. Whole milk is often used as a base liquid for the sauce, contributing to its creaminess. Additionally, an egg can be incorporated to enhance the smoothness and richness of the sauce. The sauce is carefully seasoned with ingredients like dry mustard, salt, Cayenne pepper, and butter to add depth of flavour and a tangy bite.
Macaroni and cheese has become a popular dish worldwide, with various regional variations. In the United Kingdom, it has gained widespread popularity as a meal or side dish in both fast food and upmarket restaurants. In Scotland, macaroni and cheese pies, known as macaroni pies, are a common variation. The dish has also spread to other countries, such as Canada, brought by British immigrants.
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It is considered a comfort food
Macaroni and cheese, or mac and cheese, is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce, most commonly cheddar sauce. It is considered a comfort food for many people, and its popularity as a comforting meal can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it is a dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia and childhood memories. Many people grew up eating mac and cheese, and it reminds them of the care and comfort they received from their parents or caregivers. This association with childhood and positive memories can provide a sense of familiarity and emotional connection, making it a go-to choice when one is seeking solace or comfort.
Secondly, the dish's creamy texture and cheesy flavour contribute to its appeal as a comfort food. The combination of butter, whole milk, and various types of cheese creates an indulgent and satisfying sensory experience. The creaminess of the sauce, achieved by adding an egg, enhances the richness and indulgent nature of the dish. The sharpness of the cheese is often balanced by adding dry mustard, creating a tangy bite that complements the richness of the other ingredients.
Additionally, the versatility of mac and cheese allows for personalisation and variation, making it accessible and appealing to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Different types of cheese, such as Colby, Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Cheddar, can be mixed and matched to create unique flavour profiles. The dish can also be customised by adding ingredients like bacon, ham, or roasted onions in some regional variations. This adaptability means that mac and cheese can cater to individual preferences, making it a comforting option for a diverse range of palates.
The convenience and affordability of mac and cheese also contribute to its status as a comfort food. It can be prepared using simple, affordable ingredients that are easily accessible to most people. The dish can be made in large quantities and is suitable for sharing, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with loved ones, further associating it with comfort and warmth. Additionally, the dish has been adapted for convenience with the introduction of boxed macaroni and cheese, which offers a simplified preparation process without compromising the comforting flavours that people crave.
Lastly, the cultural influence and widespread availability of mac and cheese have contributed to its status as a comfort food. It has risen in popularity in various regions, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, where it is commonly found in both fast-food outlets and upmarket restaurants. Its prevalence and familiarity make it a recognisable and reliable choice for those seeking a comforting meal. The dish's long history, dating back to medieval England, and its inclusion in influential cookbooks, such as Mary Randolph's "The Virginia House-Wife" in 1824, have further cemented its place in culinary traditions, associating it with comfort and tradition for generations.
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It can be baked in the oven or cooked on the stove
Macaroni and cheese is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce, most commonly cheddar sauce. It is a classic comfort food that can be baked in the oven or cooked on the stove.
Baking Macaroni and Cheese in the Oven
The traditional macaroni and cheese is baked in the oven. To bake macaroni and cheese in the oven, first, boil the macaroni for 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente, as the macaroni will continue to cook in the oven. Next, make the cheese sauce by cooking flour in melted butter until golden, then whisking in milk or half-and-whole milk. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in shredded cheese. Layer the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and more shredded cheese in a baking dish. Finally, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the edges begin to bubble.
Cooking Macaroni and Cheese on the Stove
Macaroni and cheese can also be prepared in a sauce pan on top of the stove. This method may involve using a packaged mix, such as Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, which became popular in the mid-20th century. The cheese is often included as a Mornay sauce or Béchamel sauce with cheddar cheese, which is mixed with the macaroni and sprinkled with Parmesan.
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It is a popular dish worldwide
Macaroni and cheese, or mac and cheese, is a popular dish worldwide. It is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce, most commonly cheddar sauce. Its origins trace back to cheese and pasta casseroles in medieval England. The traditional macaroni and cheese is put in a casserole dish and baked in the oven. However, it can also be prepared in a sauce pan on top of the stove. The cheese is often included as a Mornay sauce added to the pasta. It has been described as "comfort food".
In the 21st century, mac and cheese has become increasingly popular in the United Kingdom, available as a meal or a side order in both fast food and upmarket restaurants. In the United States, it gained popularity during the Great Depression, and its accessibility increased during World War II due to rationing. It is now a well-known dish in the US, with several brands offering frozen and prepared mac and cheese.
Mac and cheese is also beloved in Canada, where Kraft Dinner (KD) has become an icon of Canadian culture. It consists of non-perishable dried elbow pasta, neon-orange cheese powder, and is packaged in a famous blue box. It is so popular that it is considered Canada's unofficial national dish.
In Switzerland, a traditional dish called Älplermagronen, or Alpine herder's macaroni, is made with macaroni, cream, cheese, roasted onions, and sometimes potatoes. It is often served with apple sauce and is a hearty dish enjoyed in mountain huts and chalets, as well as in restaurants throughout Switzerland and Austria, especially at Alpine ski resorts.
Variations of mac and cheese can be found globally, such as the Middle Eastern dessert kanafeh, made with soft cheese, shredded semolina, and sweet sugar syrup. Cacio e pepe, an ancient Roman pasta dish made with fresh egg pasta, salty grated cheese, and black pepper, is another variation that remains a must-try when visiting Rome.
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Frequently asked questions
The food pyramid is a representation of the optimal number of servings to be eaten each day from each of the basic food groups. The bottom level includes the most important food group, which usually includes bread, cereal, rice, and pasta. The top level includes the least important food group, which usually includes fats, oils, and candy.
Macaroni falls into the bottom level of the food pyramid as it is a type of pasta. Cheese is in the third level of the food pyramid, which recommends 2-3 servings per day.
Other foods in the same level as macaroni include bread, cereal, and rice. Other foods in the same level as cheese include milk and yoghurt.
