Barbados @ 50 - Macaroni Pie

In all countries around the world, there is a dish that defines the ability of a home cook. The ingredients and dishes vary from one part of the world to another and from one country to another. In Barbados, that dish is Macaroni Pie (macaroni and cheese pie). There are many definitions, standards, societal and cultural norms associated with the practice of making these particular dishes. Let's just say that pie is a defining dish.

While each country in the region makes Macaroni Pie, particularly as part of the Sunday Lunch spread, in Barbados, Macaroni Pie is sold widely, everyday in eateries across the island. What distinguishes the Bajan Macaroni Pie from others is the use of tomato ketchup and Robert's mello-kreem Margarine/spread with its deep orange colour that gives a signature rich colour and flavour to the pie. Finely minced herbs and sweet peppers are sometimes added.

Disclaimer: The image below of Macaroni Pies was not made with any of the signature ingredients - ketchup and mello-kreem - for a Barbadian version of the pie.