Mac and Kim-Cheese

Mac and Kim-Cheese: A Fusion Delight

Who says you can’t spice up a classic comfort food? Introducing the Mac and Kim-Cheese—a tantalizing twist on your traditional macaroni and cheese, infused with the zesty zest of kimchi. This recipe is not only a nod to culinary fusion but also a palate pleaser for anyone looking to add a bit of kick to their meal. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sodium citrate (helps the cheese melt smoothly)
• 6 ounces goat’s milk or regular white cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3 cups) —divided
• 2 ounces gruyere cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 ounce pecorino cheese, finely shredded (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup drained and coarsely chopped kimchi
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs —for topping
• Thinly sliced green onions —for topping

Directions:

1. Prep the Pasta:
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until just barely al dente. If you plan to bake it, remove the pasta from heat 30-60 seconds earlier than usual.
2. Cheese Sauce Creation:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sodium citrate. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sodium citrate is fully dissolved and small bubbles form around the edges.
   • Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add most of the shredded cheeses, whisking continuously until each batch is melted before adding the next. Save 1/4 cup of the shredded cheese for later if you’re baking the dish.
3. Combine and Mix:
   • Fold the cooked macaroni and chopped kimchi into the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   • If baking, preheat your broiler. Butter a 2-quart casserole dish and transfer the macaroni mixture into it. Sprinkle the reserved cheese and panko breadcrumbs on top.
   • Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs have browned and the cheese bubbles delightfully.

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 650 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

The Mac and Kim-Cheese is a vibrant dish that promises not just warmth and comfort, but also a burst of flavors that blend the creamy, earthy tones of the cheeses with the vibrant, tangy bite of kimchi. Topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs and fresh green onions, this dish is a visual and sensory delight, perfect for a cozy dinner or a bold side dish at your next gathering.

Serve it fresh out of the broiler with a light salad to cut through the richness, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy comfort with a kick!

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