Saffron Strands Macaroni and Cheese

This saffron-infused mac and cheese is the perfect twist on the family favorite dish— it's equally nourishing as it is indulgent, guaranteed to warm both your spirit and your appetite. 

Featuring our recently relaunched, limited-edition Strands of Sunshine saffron, every bite is packed with the vibrant flavor and powerful benefits of premium, Super Negin Grade A saffron—the highest quality available.

It's the dish that truly does it all - rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with the golden touch of saffron. 

Ingredients For the Macaroni:

• 8 oz organic elbow macaroni (or organic Jovial gluten-free macaroni)

Ingredients For the Saffron Tincture:

• 3 pinches (about 45 threads) THE FULLEST Strands of Sunshine saffron threads
• 2-3 tbsp hot water (to create the saffron tincture)

Ingredients For the Cheese Sauce 

• 2 tbsp organic grass-fed butter

• 2 tbsp einkorn flour (or regular all-purpose flour)

• 2 cups raw grass-fed milk

• 1/2 cup grated raw grass-fed Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese

• 1/2 cup grated sharp raw grass-fed cheddar (optional, for extra richness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

• Saffron tincture (from the earlier step)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Saffron Tincture

1. In a small bowl, place the 3 pinches (about 45 threads) THE FULLEST Strands of Sunshine saffron.
2. Add 2-3 tbsp of hot water (just off the boil).
3. Let it steep for about 5-10 minutes to infuse the water with saffron flavor and color. Set aside.

2. Cook the Macaroni

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the organic elbow macaroni (or gluten-free macaroni) according to the package instructions.
2. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the grass-fed butter over medium heat.
2. Add the einkorn flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the raw grass-fed milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the saffron tincture (with both liquid and saffron threads), stirring to incorporate the golden color and fragrance.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan and Manchego cheeses. Keep stirring until melted and smooth. If you’re adding cheddar, mix it in at this stage as well.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (if desired) to taste.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1.  Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is well-mixed and creamy, serve immediately. You can garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.

This rich, creamy saffron mac and cheese makes a memorable dish with a unique twist. Enjoy!