Step into the vibrant world of Caribbean cuisine, where each dish tells a story of sun-soaked beaches and rich cultural traditions. Today, let's explore the flavors of Barbados through a beloved recipe: Barbados Macaroni Pie. This dish is more than just a meal—it's a taste of Bajan comfort food, blending creamy textures, robust cheeses, and a blend of spices that create a harmonious melody on your palate.

You may wonder, what makes Barbados Macaroni Pie such a cherished part of Bajan households and celebrations? Beyond its ingredients, this dish symbolizes the spirit of togetherness and hospitality that defines Barbadian culture. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or a festive gathering, it embodies the essence of Caribbean warmth and culinary tradition.

Join us as we unravel the secrets of crafting the perfect Barbados Macaroni Pie, and discover how this recipe allows you to bring the vibrant flavors of Barbados into your own kitchen, creating a culinary experience that resonates with both authenticity and indulgence.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups elbow macaroni

2. 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

3. 1 cup evaporated milk

4. 1/2 cup whole milk

5. 2 large eggs

6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

7. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

8. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

9. 1 teaspoon salt

10. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

11. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated, if possible)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and melted butter. Mix until the cheese is coated with butter.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the flour, evaporated milk, whole milk, eggs, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, but avoid bringing it to a boil. Remove from heat.

5. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture, ensuring that the macaroni is well-coated. Then, gradually pour in the cheese sauce, stirring continuously to ensure an even distribution of the sauce.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.

8. Serve Warm: Allow the Barbados Macaroni Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares or scoop out servings, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness that embodies the heart of Bajan comfort food.

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Barbados with this baked macaroni and cheese dish, a true staple in many Bajan households. This recipe captures the essence of the Caribbean, delivering a taste of island warmth to your dining table.

Nutritional Values

Here are approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients. Keep in mind that actual values can vary based on specific brands and variations in products.

Nutritional Values per Serving (Assuming 8 servings):

1. Elbow Macaroni (2 cups):

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 84g
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 4g

benefits:

• -Provides a good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
• -Contains some protein and fiber.

2. Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (3 cups):

• Calories: 1,200
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 72g
• Fat: 96g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Rich in calcium for bone health.
• -Good source of protein for muscle development.
• -Contains vitamin A for vision and skin health.

3. Evaporated Milk (1 cup):

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Excellent source of calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
• -Provides protein for muscle growth and repair.

4. Whole Milk (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 80
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4.5g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Contains essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
• -Good source of healthy fats for energy.

5. Large Eggs (2):

• Calories: 140
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• -Rich in essential vitamins such as B12 and D.

6. Unsalted Butter, Melted (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 800
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 92g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Provides a source of saturated fats for energy.
• -Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E.

7. All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 110
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 1g

benefits:

• -Supplies complex carbohydrates for energy.
• -Contains small amounts of protein.

8. Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 5
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Adds flavor without many calories.
• -Contains antioxidants and small amounts of vitamins.

9. Salt (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Enhances flavor and can help balance electrolytes.
• -Important for nerve function and fluid balance.

10. Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits: Adds flavor and has potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties.

11. Nutmeg, Freshly Grated (1/4 teaspoon):

• Calories: 2
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• -Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.
• -Contains small amounts of minerals and antioxidants.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific product brands and variations. It's always a good idea to check the nutritional information on the packaging for the most accurate details.