Einkorn Mac & Cheese

Heidi Gordon / Jovial Foods

Mac & Cheese is a classic, an old favorite prepared in different ways in many European countries for centuries.  It's pretty simple to make and when you use whole grain einkorn pasta, you'll get extra protein, iron, B Vitamins, fiber, trace minerals, lutein and more. The nice, nutty whole grain flavor is perfect with the creamy sauce and it really feels satisfying. Now that’s comforting!

ingredients

Instructions

1.    Preheat your oven to 375°.

2.    Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil, add 1 tbsp. sea salt if desired, and cook the pasta for 12 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

3.    While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a heavy saucepan with fresh sage leaves and let simmer for 3 minutes to flavor the butter. Do not brown the butter. Remove the leaves.

4.    Stir in flour and whisk energetically, cooking for 2 minutes until the mixture bubbles.

5.    Add hot milk, a few tablespoons at time, while you whisk and continue to simmer on medium heat. Lower the heat and continue to stir, cooking for a few more minutes until the sauce is thick and smooth.

6.    Stir the cheese sauce in the pan with the drained, cooked pasta. Mix well with a wooden spoon.

7.    Add half of the grated cheese and ham and mix gently. Pour mixture into a greased casserole or individual ramekins and then top with the rest of the grated cheese.

8.    Baked for 30 minutes for large casseroles and 15-20 minutes for individual servings.

Notes:  Before baking, you may also freeze portions in oven-proof dishes and bake frozen for a convenient snack or meal, just add five minutes to the cooking time. You can also stir in steamed green beans, broccoli or peas for a little bit of green, but we feel vegetables go better on the side.

Recipe courtesy of Jovial Foods.

makes: 4 servings