Miso is a common ingredient in vegan versions of cheesey recipes, because it helps make up for the sharp complexity that’s missing without any dairy products. I love cheese too much to ever leave it out, so why choose? Combining the two together, and adding mushrooms, makes for a powerfully flavored dish that packs a punch of umami. This is a light dinner for one that you can bulk up with a salad.
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Pour the oil into a small saucepan over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to soften, about 5 minutes. Line a plate with paper towels, and use a slotted spoon to transfer the mushrooms to the plate. Pour off and discard the liquid and oil from the saucepan, and wipe it out.
Step 2
In the same saucepan, melt the butter. When its foam subsides, whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens a bit and the raw flour taste is gone, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the milk, cheese, and miso and stir until the cheese melts.
Step 3
Add the macaroni and mushrooms, stir to thoroughly combine, and remove from the heat. Season generously with black pepper.
Step 4
Preheat the broiler with the rack set 4- to 5 inches from the flame or element. Oil a small baking dish. Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the panko crumbs on top. Broil until the panko crumbs have browned, 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5
Remove from the broiler, let cool slightly, spoon onto a plate, and eat.
