Baking Bajan Macaroni Pie: A Savory Caribbean Delight

Introduction

In the vibrant culinary world of the Caribbean, one dish stands out as a true comfort food favorite – bajan macaroni pie. This savory delight, hailing from the beautiful island of Barbados, combines creamy, cheesy goodness with perfectly cooked macaroni, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent. Whether you are seeking a taste of the Caribbean or simply looking for a delicious new recipe to try, baking bajan macaroni pie is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the tropical shores of Barbados.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering bajan macaroni pie, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups macaroni
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon mustard

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Layer half of the cooked macaroni in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the macaroni.
6. Pour half of the milk and egg mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the dish.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining macaroni, cheese, and milk mixture.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the pie.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the pie is set and golden brown on top.
10. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in bajan macaroni pie?

A: While cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with different types of cheese to achieve a unique flavor. Gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can add an interesting twist to the classic dish.

Q: Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs on top of the pie?

A: While breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch to the top of the pie, they are not essential. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a smoother texture, or substitute with a layer of additional cheese for a cheesier topping.

Q: Can I make bajan macaroni pie in advance?

A: Absolutely! Bajan macaroni pie can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for entertaining, as you can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when needed.