Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has made it a go-to dish for countless individuals. But what if I told you there’s a way to take this classic dish to a whole new level? Introducing Spicy Vegan Mac n Cheese, a mouthwatering variation that combines heat, aromatic spices, and wholesome veggies to create a flavor explosion. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the steps to create this irresistible twist on a traditional favorite.
Origin of Mac and Cheese
Originally, mac and cheese was prepared differently from modern methods. The dish can be traced back to the 14th century in Italy, where it was known as “macaroni pie.” However, the version we now associate with mac and cheese has its roots in England.The original preparation of mac and cheese involved boiling macaroni pasta until it was tender. The cooked macaroni was then layered with cheese in a baking dish. The cheese used was typically a mixture of cheddar or Parmesan.The assembled dish was then baked in an oven until the cheese melted and formed a golden crust on top. Over time, the dish evolved and made its way to America, where it gained popularity. It underwent variations in recipes and became a staple comfort food in American cuisine. Today, there are numerous versions of mac and cheese, with different cheeses, seasonings, and additional ingredients added to customize the dish to individual preferences.
Beextravegant’s Secret to Spicy Vegan Mac n Cheese
Spices and aromatics
The secret to making spicy vegan mac and cheese lies in the use of aromatics and spices. We start by infusing the dish with the flavors of cumin seeds. Fresh ginger, garlic, and green chili peppers are crushed together which complements the spiciness of the dish. These ingredients not only elevate the flavor but also infuse the sauce with a delightful kick.
Adding a veggie twist
To enhance both the taste and nutritional value, we incorporate diced carrots (and other veggies of your choice) into the dish. You can experiment with additions like green peas, string beans, cauliflower, broccoli, or potatoes – all diced into small, bite-sized pieces.
Creamy Sauce
To achieve the desired creamy and cheesy consistency in our vegan mac and cheese, we rely on a combination of vegan butter, all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour), soy milk, and vegan cheese. I recommend using your favorite vegan cheese – whether shredded or cubed – for that gooey and indulgent experience. Although vegan cheese takes a bit longer to melt, the patience is worth it.
Ingredients and Substitutes
1 tbsp oil 1 tsp cumin seeds or ground cumin 3-4 large cloves of garlic 1-inch ginger 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp red chili powder 1-3 green chili peppers (depending on heat tolerance) 1 carrot, diced into small pieces (you can add green peas, string beans, cauliflowers, broccoli, potatoes, etc. all diced into small pieces) 2 tbsp vegan butter 4 tbsp all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute) 600 ml soy milk (other non-dairy milks like almond milk or oat milk can be used as substitutes) 6 oz or 170 g vegan cheese (shredded or cubed) 12 oz or 300 g macaroni pasta or elbow pasta (gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute) Handful of cilantro or coriander leaves
Ingredient Substitutes
Oil: You can use any cooking oil of your choice such as olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. Cumin Seeds: If you don’t have cumin seeds, ground cumin can be used as a substitute. Use ½ to 1 teaspoon of ground cumin instead. Veggies: You can replace carrots with other diced vegetables like green peas, string beans, cauliflower, broccoli, potatoes, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Ensure they are cut into small pieces for even cooking. All-Purpose Flour: To make the recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Soy Milk: Feel free to substitute soy milk with any other non-dairy milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or rice milk. Vegan Cheese: Use your favorite brand and type of vegan cheese. You can choose from shredded or cubed options. Macaroni Pasta: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can use gluten-free macaroni or elbow pasta.
Note: Adjust the quantities of spices, chili peppers, and vegetables according to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
How to make Spicy Vegan Mac and Cheese?
Cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, coated with some oil to prevent sticking. Crush the ginger, garlic, and green chili peppers together using a mortar and pestle and set aside. Crushed aromatics (ginger, garlic, and green chili peppers) to the pot and cook until the raw smell dissipates. Add the diced carrots (and any other veggies) and cook for about 5 minutes on medium to medium-low heat until tender. Add the ground turmeric and red chili powder till the smell of the raw spices goes away. Add vegan butter and let it melt. Then whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly stream in soy milk, whisking well, until fully incorporated. Let simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. Add salt, pepper, and vegan cheese to the pot, stirring well until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and thick. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until fully coated. Switch off the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro or coriander leaves. Serve and enjoy your spicy and flavorful vegan mac and cheese! I hope you enjoy making this delectable vegan spicy mac and cheese recipe! The combination of aromatic spices, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to follow me for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration. Happy cooking.
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