The combination of Macaroni and Cheese or simply ‘Mac and Cheese’ has been a popular and classic American comfort food. Some reports suggest that it became popular in America during the Great Depression as it was simple to make and inexpensive. It is simply macaroni pasta layered together with cheese and butter. This simple dish has been the favorite among Americans. They can just never have enough of it!
This cheesy combo has made its way to the tummies of Indians as well. Although, it’s not very popular in India owing to its blandness, it still can be a treat for cheese lovers.
14th July is observed as the Mac & Cheese Day. The history of the observance is unknown. Let’s delve a bit into its history and have a look at some facts about this dish.
It is believed that the first known written recipe for the dish appeared in 1770 in Elizabeth Raffald‘s book, The Experienced English Housekeeper.
In 1802, America’s 3rd President Thomas Jefferson imported pasta and Parmesan cheese after having encountered the dish in Europe. He served his version of Mac and Cheese ‘A pie called macaroni’ at the state dinner in the US.
Kraft Foods introduced its boxed macaroni and cheese in 1937, when America was under the grip of the Great Depression. They sold about 9 million boxes during the year. It was the first pasta product to come with processed, powdered cheese. The product could serve four at just 19 cents.
In 1993 Crayola named one of its crayon colors, Macaroni and Cheese.
(Feature image source: Chowhound)
