kitchen poetry: day 1

Here is my first instalment of kitchen poetry. There is nothing better than homemade macaroni and cheese cooked from scratch. I love this dish - ultimate comfort food. I can't just leave you with an image without sharing the recipe so here it is:

2 1/4 cups dry macaroni
1 cup grated cheddar cheese (I like the sharp variety)
1 cup chopped green onion
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons dry mustard
1 teaspoon dry tarragon
1/2 teaspoon each salt, pepper and paprika
3 cups 1 % milk (I use 2 %)
2 tomatoes, sliced into rounds fairly thinly
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

• Cook macaroni in a large pot of water according to directions (usually around 10 to 12 minutes). Drain when cooked.


• Meanwhile, in a bowl combine: cheddar, onions, Parmesan cheese, flour, mustard, tarragon, salt, pepper and paprika.


• In a large saucepan, heat milk until hot, GRADUALLY add cheese mixture, whisking CONSTANTLY until thickened and bubbly.


• Combine the mixture and the cooked macaroni. Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 11 x 7 inch (2 L) or an 8 x 8 inch baking dish.


• Place tomatoes over top


• Sprinkle with some extra Parmesan cheese and cheddar.


• Bake at 375 degrees F (or 190 degrees C) for 10 minutes


• Broil at low broil for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and tomatoes are nice and hot.


• Sprinkle with parsley and enjoy