The Legacy of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

Nestled in the heart of Seattle’s bustling Pike Place Market lies the cornerstone of artisanal cheesemaking: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese. Since its inception in 2003, Beecher’s has not just been a store but a testament to the power of passion, quality, and tradition in the craft of cheesemaking. The journey of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is a compelling story of how a commitment to natural ingredients, traditional methods, and innovation can create a product that transcends the boundaries of food to become a cultural icon.

Crafting Excellence from the Ground Up

Beecher’s foundation is built upon a simple, yet profound philosophy: food’s truest essence is achieved through natural ingredients and traditional techniques. This philosophy has guided every step in Beecher’s cheesemaking process, from selecting the freshest local milk to employing time-honored methods without artificial preservatives. The result is not just cheese but a pure expression of flavor and quality.

Flagship: A Cheese that Defines an Era

At the heart of Beecher’s product line is the Flagship cheese, a semi-hard cheese that embodies the brand’s dedication to excellence. Aged for 15 months, it strikes a perfect balance between sharpness and nuttiness, texture, and meltability. The Flagship cheese is not just a cornerstone of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese; it’s a standard-bearer for what artisanal cheese can be.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is a place where innovation flourishes within the bounds of tradition. By constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques while adhering to traditional cheesemaking practices, Beecher’s has introduced a variety of products that keep the palate excited and engaged. This innovative spirit is perhaps best exemplified in their signature dish, Beecher’s Macaroni and Cheese, which has garnered a cult following for its rich, comforting, and utterly gourmet flavor profile.

A Commitment to Community and Sustainability

Beyond cheesemaking, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese is deeply committed to sustainability and community engagement. By sourcing milk from local farms that share its ethos, Beecher’s not only supports the local economy but also ensures a lower environmental impact. Furthermore, through The Beecher’s Foundation, the company educates people about the benefits of natural food and the importance of community involvement in sustainable food systems.

The Future of Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

As Beecher’s Handmade Cheese continues to grow, it remains rooted in the principles that made it a beloved brand: quality, tradition, and innovation. With plans to expand its reach and continue its mission of bringing artisanal cheese to the forefront of American cuisine, Beecher’s legacy is not just in the products it creates but in the culture it fosters—one where food is respected, enjoyed, and celebrated.

In the world of artisanal cheese, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese stands as a beacon of excellence, a reminder that the best things in life are often the simplest, made with care, passion, and a deep respect for tradition.

Crafting the Perfect Macaroni and Cheese

Creating the perfect macaroni and cheese is an art form that combines simplicity with a touch of gourmet flair, especially when it comes to a beloved recipe like Beecher’s Macaroni and Cheese. This dish has transcended the realm of comfort food to become a culinary icon, revered for its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the undeniable satisfaction it brings to every bite. Here’s how you can recreate this masterpiece in your own kitchen, infusing it with love and a dash of culinary genius.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

The secret to any great dish lies in the quality of its ingredients. For Beecher’s Macaroni and Cheese, this means:

• Pasta: Choose a high-quality pasta with good surface texture to hold onto the creamy sauce. Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells or penne can add a twist.
• Cheese: The star of the show is Beecher’s Flagship cheese, renowned for its rich, nuanced flavor. A blend of aged cheddar and gruyere can also work wonderfully.
• Milk & Cream: Full-fat milk and a touch of heavy cream bring luxurious creaminess to the sauce.
• Butter & Flour: A roux made from butter and flour thickens the sauce, ensuring a silky-smooth consistency.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg or mustard powder elevate the flavors to new heights.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prep the Pasta: Cook your pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

2. Create the Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook until the mixture is golden and bubbling. This is your thickening base.

3. Whisk in Dairy: Gradually whisk in the milk and cream into the roux, avoiding lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

4. Melt in the Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the grated cheese until smooth and fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices.

5. Combine and Bake: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden on top.

Customization and Variations

The beauty of macaroni and cheese is its versatility. Feel free to add your twist with these ideas:

• Mix in Extras: Crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables can add texture and flavor.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with a mix of cheeses for new flavor profiles. Smoked gouda, asiago, or a touch of blue cheese can create a complex, gourmet taste.
• Top It Off: For a crunchy top, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and parmesan, then sprinkle over before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beecher’s-inspired macaroni and cheese piping hot from the oven, as the centerpiece of a cozy meal. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette and a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied beer to cut through the richness.

Nutritional Insights into Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort food, often carries a reputation for being less than nutritious due to its rich content of carbohydrates, fats, and calories. However, with a deeper understanding of its nutritional profile and by making mindful ingredient choices, it’s possible to enjoy this classic dish while also catering to nutritional needs. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional aspects of macaroni and cheese, focusing on ways to balance indulgence with health.

Key Nutritional Components

• Calories: Traditional macaroni and cheese can be high in calories, primarily due to the cheese, milk, and butter used in its preparation.
• Fats: Cheese and butter contribute to the fat content, which includes both saturated and unsaturated fats.
• Carbohydrates: Pasta, the base of the dish, is a significant source of carbohydrates.
• Proteins: Cheese and milk provide proteins, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the cheese used, macaroni and cheese can be a source of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, and B vitamins.

Balancing Indulgence and Health

Enjoying macaroni and cheese as part of a balanced diet involves making adjustments both in the recipe and in how often it is consumed. Here are strategies for enhancing the nutritional value of macaroni and cheese:

• Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole grain or whole wheat pasta to increase dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and provides a feeling of fullness.
• Low-fat Dairy Options: Use reduced-fat cheese and low-fat milk to decrease the saturated fat content without significantly compromising taste or texture.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the dish more balanced and colorful.
• Lean Protein Add-ins: For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, turkey, or even plant-based proteins to the dish.
• Portion Control: Serve macaroni and cheese alongside a large portion of green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

Nutritional Considerations for Special Diets

For those with dietary restrictions, there are various ways to modify macaroni and cheese:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Lactose-Free: Opt for lactose-free cheese and milk or explore plant-based alternatives.
• Lower Sodium: Choose low-sodium cheese and avoid adding extra salt to the cooking water or sauce.

Pairing Suggestions for Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a versatile and beloved comfort dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, beverages, and even wines. The key to creating the perfect pairing is to balance the rich, creamy texture and taste of the macaroni with complementary flavors and textures from your accompaniments. Whether you’re serving a classic Beecher’s Macaroni and Cheese or your own gourmet variation, here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your meal to a delightful culinary experience.

Side Dishes

• Green Salads: A crisp, fresh salad can cut through the richness of the macaroni and cheese. Opt for vinaigrette dressings to add a tangy contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus, roasted with a bit of olive oil and seasonings, offer a nutritious and flavorful counterpoint.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying textural contrast and complements the creamy pasta.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crisp coleslaw can refresh the palate between bites of rich mac and cheese.

Beverages

• Crisp White Wines: Look for white wines with high acidity to cut through the creaminess. Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling can be excellent choices.
• Light to Medium-bodied Reds: If you prefer red wine, choose a lighter variety that won’t overpower the dish, such as Pinot Noir or a young Chianti.
• Craft Beers: A pale ale or a lager with moderate hops can complement the dish without overwhelming its flavors.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate and refresh your taste buds.

Beer Pairings

Beer enthusiasts will find that macaroni and cheese is surprisingly beer-friendly, with several styles enhancing the dish’s flavors:

• Amber Ales: Their malt-forward flavor profiles pair well with the cheesy goodness of the macaroni.
• Porters: The roasted notes in a porter can complement the baked top layer of a macaroni and cheese casserole.
• Wheat Beers: The light, fruity notes of a wheat beer can lift the dish, making it feel less heavy.