Exploring the Fascinating History of Who Invented Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Macaroni and cheese – one of the most beloved comfort foods around the world. But who was responsible for creating this iconic dish? This article explores the fascinating history of who invented mac and cheese, from the timeline of events to the innovative minds behind the dish.

A Historical Account of the Invention of Mac and Cheese

The origin of mac and cheese dates back to the 14th century, when pasta first became popular in Europe. There is evidence that suggests similar dishes were served in Italy, France and England during the late 18th century. The dish gained popularity in the United States in the 19th century, with recipes appearing in cookbooks around the country.

According to research by the Wisconsin Center for Dairy Research, “the earliest American recipe for macaroni and cheese appears in Mary Randolph’s 1824 cookbook The Virginia Housewife.” The recipe called for grated cheese and butter to be combined with cooked macaroni and baked. By the mid-19th century, the dish had become a staple in many households.

Exploring the Innovative Mind Behind Mac and Cheese

One of the first people to bring mac and cheese to the United States was Thomas Jefferson. During his tenure as U.S. Minister to France in 1789, Jefferson developed a taste for the Italian dish known as macaroni pie. He even purchased a macaroni machine from Italy to make the noodles for his own dishes.

Jefferson wrote about macaroni pie in his 1802 book, Notes on the State of Virginia: “Macaroni is made of flour, cut into small pieces about the size of a large wire, boiled, and mixed with butter, cheese, pepper, and sometimes cream. It is then laid into a deep dish, covered with cheese and browned.”

The Untold Story of the Creator of Mac and Cheese

While Jefferson may have popularized the dish in America, he did not invent mac and cheese. That honor belongs to a British woman named Elizabeth Raffald. In 1769, she published a cookbook titled The Experienced English Housekeeper, which included a recipe for macaroni pudding, a dish similar to today’s mac and cheese.

Raffald’s recipe calls for grated Parmesan cheese, butter, cream, nutmeg and egg yolks to be combined with cooked macaroni and baked. This dish was then served hot or cold. Raffald’s recipe is still used today, although some variations have been added over the years.

Unveiling the Mystery of Who Invented Mac and Cheese

While Raffald is credited with creating the original mac and cheese recipe, it is unclear who actually invented the dish. One possible candidate is Charles Ranhofer, a French chef who worked at Delmonico’s restaurant in New York City in the late 19th century. Ranhofer is said to have created a version of mac and cheese called “Macaroni à la Delmonico” in 1893.

Ranhofer’s recipe calls for a combination of cooked macaroni, béchamel sauce, grated Parmesan cheese and cayenne pepper to be baked in a buttered dish. While Ranhofer’s recipe is similar to Raffald’s, it is unclear whether or not he was inspired by her work.

The Fascinating Tale of the Person Responsible for Mac and Cheese

Another possible candidate for the invention of mac and cheese is Lucy Clapp. In 1894, Clapp published a cookbook titled The Boston Cooking School Cook Book, which included a recipe for macaroni and cheese. Her recipe calls for a combination of cooked macaroni, cheese, butter, milk and salt to be baked in a buttered dish.

Clapp’s recipe is very similar to Raffald’s, and it is believed that she was inspired by the British cook’s work. However, Clapp has been largely overlooked in the history of mac and cheese, despite her significant contribution to the dish.

Conclusion

The history of who invented mac and cheese is an intriguing one. While it is unclear who exactly was responsible for the creation of this beloved dish, it is clear that Thomas Jefferson, Elizabeth Raffald, Charles Ranhofer and Lucy Clapp all played a part in popularizing the dish in the United States. Their contributions have helped make mac and cheese a timeless classic.