Untouched by passing trends, comfort food is always king. Across all ages, demographics, or dietary restrictions, this inalienable fact remains true. Of all the possible menu items that qualify for this distinction, mac and cheese ranks near the top for universal appeal. When you’ve got chewy noodles drenched in gooey golden cheese sauce, what’s not to like? And, that’s only the beginning.
Known for embracing the unconventional, Austin’s food scene has evolved to include a rich array of innovative plant-based mac and cheeses, spanning from simple to stupendous. If you don’t know what’s for dinner tonight, consider this your cheat sheet to instant gratification.
What Makes a Great Mac and Cheese?
To better appreciate art of making better mac and cheese, we need to examine exactly what can either add or detract from the eating experience. Every single element counts in a dish this simple. The best mac can be judged by the following facets:
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Al dente pasta provides the ideal base, ensuring a satisfying texture and bite.
- Consistency and Quantity of Sauce: Silky smooth, velvety bechamel or bust; lumps, clumps, or graininess are never acceptable. Furthermore, there needs to be enough sauce to comfortably envelope the pasta without turning into noodle soup.
- Cheesiness: Yes, mac and cheese must be about the cheesy flavor, first and foremost. Some chefs may opt to start from scratch with nutritional yeast, while others might prefer the ease of melting plant-based shreds. Neither answer is wrong if the essence of cheddar rings out strong and clear.
- Innovative Twists: From high-end add-ins like truffle oil to humble green peas, a touch of creativity sets outstanding mac and cheese apart. Unexpected flavor combinations, pairings, or platings are what make one mac more memorable than the next.
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese in Austin, TX
Continue reading “Vegan Mac Smack Down”
