Trinidad and Tobago Macaroni Pie Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Macaroni Pie

Trinidad and Tobago Macaroni Pie Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Region / culture: Trinidad and Tobago | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Macaroni Pie
Macaroni Pie

Macaroni pie is a popular comfort food dish that is loved by many. It is a creamy and cheesy pasta bake that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

History

Macaroni pie has its roots in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is a staple dish in many households. It is often served at special occasions such as Christmas and Easter, as well as at family gatherings and potlucks. The dish is believed to have been brought to the Caribbean by European settlers and has since become a beloved part of the local cuisine.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add macaroni. Boil until al dente and strain in a sieve with running cold water (this will stop the macaroni from continuing to cook and getting too soft).
  2. Grease an ovenproof baking dish.
  3. Prepare a white sauce by melting about 2-3 tbsp of butter in a saucepan. Add 2 tbsp of flour until the mixture forms into a ball (do not let it get brown). Now quickly add, alternatively, evaporated milk and prepared stock until it forms a smooth white sauce. Add a little salt and white pepper to taste and the grated cheese (the amount of cheese varies to your taste).
  4. Put macaroni into the prepared baking dish, pour white sauce over it, and top with more grated cheese. Bake in a preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until light brown on top.

Variations

  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
  • Mix in vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.

- Feel free to add in other ingredients such as cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables for a twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve macaroni pie with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

- Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a delicious combination.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.

- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option.

- Substitute almond milk for evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Macaroni pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color. - Serve in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair macaroni pie with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 350 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Macaroni: 30g per serving

- Flour: 10g per serving

Fats

- Butter: 15g per serving

- Grated cheese: 20g per serving

Proteins

- Macaroni: 8g per serving

- Grated cheese: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 20% of daily value per serving

- Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy and gluten

Summary

Macaroni pie is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a great source of calcium and vitamin A, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie content.

Summary

Macaroni pie is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy and cheesy goodness, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold close to my heart. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a love for creating delicious dishes that brought our family together around the dinner table.

One day, as I sat on a stool beside her, watching her hands move with grace and precision as she prepared a meal, I asked her about a dish that I had never seen before. "What is that, Grandma?" I inquired, pointing to the bubbling pot on the stove.

She smiled warmly at me and said, "That, my dear, is Macaroni Pie. It's a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations in our family. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I nodded eagerly, my eyes wide with excitement. I had always admired my grandmother's culinary skills and I was eager to learn any recipe that she was willing to share with me. And so, that day, she taught me how to make Macaroni Pie.

First, she showed me how to cook the macaroni until it was tender but still firm. Then, she taught me how to make a creamy cheese sauce that would be the perfect accompaniment to the pasta. As I watched her add the ingredients and stir them together, I could smell the rich aroma of the cheese and butter wafting through the kitchen.

Next, she showed me how to layer the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce in a baking dish, creating a delicious and comforting dish that would soon become a family favorite. She sprinkled breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish and then placed the dish in the oven to bake until golden and bubbly.

As the Macaroni Pie baked, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing scent, my grandmother shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that it had been passed down from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a dish that had been enjoyed by our family for generations, bringing comfort and joy to all who tasted it.

When the Macaroni Pie was finally ready, my grandmother took it out of the oven and placed it on the table, where the rest of the family had gathered eagerly. As we sat down to eat, the warm and creamy dish melted in our mouths, filling us with a sense of contentment and nostalgia.

From that day on, Macaroni Pie became a staple in our family gatherings, a dish that we would enjoy on special occasions and ordinary weeknights alike. And whenever I make it now, I think back to that day in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning the recipe that would become a cherished tradition in our family.

As I pass on the recipe to my own children and grandchildren, I am reminded of the love and connection that food can bring to our lives. The simple act of sharing a meal together can create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds between family members, just as it did for me on that day when I learned to make Macaroni Pie from my beloved grandmother.

Categories

| Cheese Recipes | Evaporated Milk Recipes | Macaroni Recipes | Trinidadian Recipes | Trinidadian Snacks | White Pepper Recipes |

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