Macaroni with cheese and raisins

Macaroni with cheese and raisins – A childhood recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Within each of us lies a sweet childhood memory, and for me, it is represented by a simple yet flavorful dish: macaroni with cheese and raisins. The combination of macaroni with creamy cheese and the sweetness of raisins creates a unique culinary experience that not only reminds us of times gone by but also delights our taste buds. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious recipe, step by step!

Ingredients

- 500 g macaroni (preferably "cavatappi" or "elbow")
- 250 g feta cheese (for a salty and slightly tangy flavor)
- 250 g cottage cheese (creamy, for texture)
- 200 g sugar (for sweetness)
- 3 eggs (to bind the mixture)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for a fragrant taste)
- 100 g raisins (for a touch of sweetness)
- 50 g margarine (for greasing the baking dish)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot for boiling the macaroni
- A colander for draining the macaroni
- A medium baking dish (approximately 25x30 cm)
- A grater
- A spatula or large spoon for mixing
- A large bowl for mixing the ingredients

Brief history

Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish found in various culinary cultures. This simple recipe combines influences from the cooking traditions of several generations, having been adapted over the years. Originally, macaroni and cheese was prepared as a main course, but today it is often served as a delicious dessert or snack. The combination of cheese with the sweetness of raisins quickly became a favorite among both children and adults.

Step by step: Preparing macaroni with cheese and raisins

1. Boiling the macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to flavor the macaroni. When the water starts to boil, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). It is important to cook them al dente, meaning they should remain slightly firm inside. After cooking, drain them in a colander and rinse quickly under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture
While the macaroni is draining, take a large bowl and grate the two types of cheese: feta and cottage cheese. Mix them well, then add the eggs and sugar. Stir everything until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. If you want an even creamier texture, you can use a fork to mash the feta cheese, making the mixture more uniform.

3. Combining the ingredients
In a greased baking dish, add the boiled macaroni. Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni and mix well to ensure that each piece of pasta is covered. Add the vanilla sugar and raisins, mixing again to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes, until the surface turns golden and appetizing. This is the perfect moment to enjoy the delicious aroma that spreads throughout the house!

5. Cooling and serving
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This step is important as it allows the dish to stabilize, making it easier to cut. Once cooled, slice the macaroni into servings and serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top, if desired.

Practical tips

- For a less dense mixture: If you find that the mixture is too thick, you can add about half a cup of milk before placing the dish in the oven. This will make the macaroni softer and fluffier.
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, to achieve a different flavor. Additionally, you can add dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a fruity note.
- Serving: These macaroni can be served both warm and cold. If you want to turn them into a more sophisticated dessert, you can accompany them with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.

Nutritional benefits

These macaroni with cheese and raisins provide a good source of carbohydrates from the macaroni, protein from the cheese and eggs, as well as fiber from the raisins. Feta cheese, for example, is rich in calcium, while raisins offer antioxidants and B vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use whole grain macaroni?
Absolutely! Whole grain macaroni adds extra fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier option.

- How can I store leftovers?
You can store the macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

- What drinks pair well with these macaroni?
Fresh lemonade or iced tea are excellent choices to complement this dish. If you prefer something more sophisticated, a dry white wine would be wonderful.

In conclusion, macaroni with cheese and raisins is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will remind you of childhood and make you feel good with every bite. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe by experimenting with various ingredients and flavors. Enjoy your meal!