By Gina Stuelke, CEO of Kenton Brothers
We have a social team here at Kenton Brothers called the KB Kulture Club. Their goal is to organize fun ways for our staff to spend time together throughout the year. Recently, the KB Kulture Club organized our annual macaroni and cheese contest. We had a record breaking 7 entries!
You might be thinking, “What are the top 10 considerations when judging a Mac-N-Cheese contest?” In a macaroni and cheese contest, several key factors contribute to the perfect dish. So here is the list!
Top 10 important and interesting Mac-N-Cheese considerations:
1. Cheese Blend
Importance: The cheese is the heart of the dish, so selecting the right blend is crucial. Common cheeses include cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, or mozzarella.
Interest: Unique combinations of cheeses, or even the use of smoked or aged cheeses, can stand out and add depth to the flavor.
2. Creaminess vs. Crust
Importance: The texture balance between a creamy sauce and a well-baked crust (if baked) is vital. Too dry or too soupy can ruin the experience.
Interest: Adding a crispy, flavorful topping, such as breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or bacon bits, can enhance the dish.
3. Pasta Choice
Importance: The type of pasta affects the overall texture and the ability to hold sauce. Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi, shells, or even unconventional shapes like orecchiette can be fun.
Interest: Creative pasta shapes or using fresh, homemade pasta can set a dish apart in terms of both texture and presentation.
4. Flavor Enhancements
Importance: Balancing the richness of the cheese with spices, herbs, or other flavoring agents like mustard powder or nutmeg can elevate the dish.
Interest: Unexpected ingredients like truffle oil, caramelized onions, or smoked paprika can make a mac and cheese memorable.
5. Mix-ins
Importance: Ingredients added to the dish, such as vegetables (broccoli, peas), proteins (ham, lobster), or other mix-ins, can change the dynamics of the mac and cheese.
Interest: A well-chosen mix-in that adds contrast or complements the flavors of the cheese can be a winning move.
6. Sauce Consistency
Importance: The cheese sauce needs to coat the pasta well without separating. The balance between liquid (milk, cream) and cheese ensures a smooth, cohesive dish.
Interest: Some contestants may opt for non-dairy options or explore different thickening agents for a unique take.
7. Baking Method
Importance: Whether the mac and cheese is baked or stovetop affects texture and presentation. A golden-brown baked top is often preferred for contrast.
Interest: Different baking techniques or adding a final torching to melt the cheese or caramelize the top can be visually and texturally intriguing.
8. Presentation
Importance: Visual appeal matters in a contest. How the mac and cheese is plated or garnished can influence judges.
Interest: Creative garnishing (herbs, crispy elements) or serving in unique vessels (mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins) adds excitement.
9. Balance of Flavors
Importance: A well-balanced dish with the right mix of salty, creamy, and savory notes is key.
Interest: Contestants may explore sweet-savory combos (like bacon and maple syrup) or global-inspired flavors (Mexican spices, Italian herbs) to stand out.
10. Originality
Importance: In a contest, bringing something unique is critical. Judges often look for creativity in approach while still respecting the dish’s roots.
Interest: A twist on tradition, like a fusion mac and cheese (buffalo mac, Cajun mac) or innovative cooking methods (smoked, grilled), can grab attention.
These factors combine to create a balance of taste, texture, creativity, and execution. Standing out in a macaroni and cheese contest often requires pushing the boundaries while keeping the essence of comfort that mac and cheese represents.
Drum roll please!!!
The 2024 Super Star of Mac-N-Cheese at KB is Annette Muckenthaler! Congratulations Annette!
2023 winner: Derek
As you can tell, we understand the importance of balancing work hard and play hard. We do both here at Kenton Brothers. If you or someone you know is in the world of commercial security and ready for a change of scenery, be sure to check out the Careers page for our current job openings!
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