Mac and cheese revolution: jamie oliver’s ultimate recipe for a classic dish
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Jamie Oliver‘s legendary mac and cheese recipe. This delectable dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the steps of making this masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 500g macaroni
- 100g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 100g plain flour
- 1 liter whole milk
- 250g grated cheddar cheese
- 250g grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon English mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
3. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Season with Dijon mustard, English mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine the Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
5. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 23x33cm baking dish.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve Immediately: Serve the mac and cheese piping hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives (optional).
Tips for Perfection:
- Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it will become mushy.
- If the béchamel sauce is too thick, add a little more milk.
- For a crispier topping, sprinkle with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Add your favorite toppings, such as bacon, jalapeños, or crumbled sausage.
Variations:
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: Add cooked lobster meat to the mac and cheese mixture.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese: Stir in shaved black truffles or truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
- Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese: Add sautéed spinach and artichoke hearts to the mixture.
- BBQ Mac and Cheese: Use BBQ sauce instead of mustard and add smoked pulled pork.
Healthier Options:
- Whole Wheat Mac and Cheese: Use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular macaroni.
- Low-Fat Mac and Cheese: Use low-fat milk and cheese.
- Vegetable-Packed Mac and Cheese: Stir in chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
The Perfect Side Dish:
Mac and cheese is the perfect side dish for any meal. Pair it with:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Roasted vegetables
- Salads
- Sandwiches
Conclusion:
Indulge in the culinary masterpiece that is Jamie Oliver‘s mac and cheese. Follow our step-by-step guide, experiment with variations, and create a dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting dinner or a side dish, this mac and cheese will become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any combination of cheeses you like. Try using Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
Q: How do I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the mac and cheese up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze mac and cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven or microwave.
