Vegetable Grimaldi

                                                                         

Looks can be deceptive! At first glance this appears to be like any other baked dish. Take one bite however and you will realize the difference. It is unusual and like no other!

The pineapple chunks and the pineapple syrup in the white sauce make this dish truly unique and unforgettable.  I love the subtle sweetness that comes with each bite, making every spoonful a delight.

I came across this recipe ages back in a cookbook by Tarla Dalal. I hesitated to try it initially wondering how it would taste and whether anyone would like it. My fears were unfounded. It was a hit! Since then I have often served it at dinners. It is fun to see the expressions on guests' faces as they take a bite....startled, bemused... are just a few of the reactions!

Ingredients: 

1 1/2 cup  macaroni or any small pasta
3/4 cup boiled green peas
1/2 cup canned pineapple
1/4 cup canned pineapple syrup
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cheese

Method:   Boil the green peas.  Boil the macaroni in salted water till it is tender but still firm (al dente). Drain and run it through fresh water. Chop  pineapple into small pieces. Keep aside the syrup.

In a non stick pan melt the butter and add flour. Cook on a slow flame for a minute. Do not brown. Gradually add milk stirring all the while, till the mixture becomes thick. Remove from flame and add the macaroni, green peas, pineapple chunks, pineapple syrup, salt and pepper. Mix well. Pour into a baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top.

                                                                         

Bake in a preheated oven at 180 C for 10 minutes or till cheese melts.
If you like you can add few pieces of cottage cheese (paneer) and pickled onions to the mixture.  I added paneer... and I thought it really went well with this recipe.