Macaroni Cheese, Mauritian Style

Ingredients:

• 500g of macaroni (dried pasta packet)
• 4 chicken breast
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 50g butter
• 125g grated cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped thyme(fresh)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper
• soy sauce

Method

1. Sliced the chicken breast in very small pieces. In a saucepan add the 2 tbs of vegetable oil over medium heat.Stir in the finely chopped onion. Stir fry until the onions are transparent. Add the chicken and cook until slightly well done.
2. Meanwhile bring to boil 4 liters of water with 1 tbs of salt added to it over high heat. Quickly add the macaroni ( pasta) and gently stir in. Cover and allow to cook for 10 - 12 minutes until the macaroni is cooked( but firmed to touch). remember not to over cook it. Or if it's easier you may follow the instruction on the packet. Strain and put aside.
3. When the chicken and onion are cooked removed them from the pan and drain the excess oil and put aside.
4. In a deep sauce pan ( or pot) add the butter over a slight medium heat. Let it melt (try not to burn the butter) and then add the chicken, thyme, onions and gradually add the milk. Bring it to boil slightly and then add the cooked macaroni. Seasoned with salt and pepper. Stir in for 1 - 2 minutes but make sure not to crush the macaroni.
5. Transfer the macaroni in an oven proof dish top with the breadcrumbs and grated cheese ( if you like you can add some grated Parmesan). Put under a grill and allow the crumbs and cheese to cook /melt to a light golden color. Let it cool down for 1 minute before serving
6. Enjoy with slice of French sticks spread thinly with butter and salads.
7. Optional: you can add fried baby prawns with the chicken.