Description

Warning: this is not your grandma’s mac and cheese, although it’s every bit as comforting and decadent. This version is infused with extremely subtle Thai influences: it’s creaminess comes thanks to smooth and silky coconut oil and coconut creamer (Don’t worry! It’s much more figure-friendly than traditional mac and cheese.) And a sprinkle of red pepper flakes infuses the sauce with an assertive bit of heat, which balances beautifully against the sweetness. This recipe is easily doubled or even tripled.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked (gluten-free or regular)
1 organic red pepper, roughly chopped
1 sweet onion, roughly chopped
1 large carrot, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons coconut oil
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 T coconut creamer (or coconut milk)
1 cup hemp, soy or rice milk (In order of preference)
1 cup nutritional yeast flakes
¼ tsp sea salt, or to taste

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Instructions

Cook macaroni according to package directions, but make sure it is staunchly al dente. It should remain slightly chewy. Drain.
Meanwhile, in a food processor, whiz together red pepper, sweet onion and carrot until it almost forms a paste.
In a large sauce or soup pan, heat coconut oil over medium low. Toss in red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute or so to infuse the oil. Toss in the veggie paste and cook until fragrant and soft, about 7 minutes.
Stir in the milk and the coconut creamer, then whisk in the nutritional yeast. Bring to a boil, lower to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly (If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer slightly longer. If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce simmer time.)
Add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat and add salt.

Notes

Variations: Add 2 cups of any of the following during step 5: steamed broccoli or cauliflower, peas or corn, edamame, or chopped organic spinach.