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.

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Herby Mac Pie with Smoked Gouda & New Zealand Cheddar

Macaroni Pie is a weekend and holiday staple on tables all across the Caribbean. Each country and indeed each home has its own recipe for making this dish. With the long Easter weekend coming up, this is a sure thing on the dining table.

Every time I make Macaroni Pie also known as Macaroni and Cheese, I like to change things up a bit. Not so much that diners would raise their eyebrows with scepticism or shake their heads indicating that something is not right. I change the flavours just so that they can nod with approval or say, "This is good pie." One can play around with a lot of things but don't ever fool around with people's macaroni pie. We take it seriously.

I LOVE smoked Gouda and it complimented the herbs very well in this pie. New Zealand cheddar, the brand Anchor is as homemade and Caribbean as one can get. We live for Anchor Cheese and not to be outdone is Australian cheddar. While we get English Cheddar, we certainly prefer the firm, sharp cheddar from New Zealand and Australia.

If you're looking for a side dish to make this weekend, try my Herby Mac Pie with Smoked Gouda & New Zealand Cheddar.

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