In a world where every dollar counts, especially in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, it's easy to underestimate the power of simple, affordable dishes like tuna mornay. But as Adam Liaw demonstrates, this classic comfort food is not only a budget-friendly option, but also a versatile and delicious meal that can feed a family of four for under $20.
The Secret to a Perfect Mornay
At its core, mornay is a French sauce, a variation of béchamel, with the addition of grated cheese. The traditional combination of gruyere and parmesan provides depth and complexity, but in Australia, we often opt for tasty cheese, a mild cheddar. While it adds body and texture, it lacks the savoury punch of parmesan. This is where vegetable stock powder comes in - a simple, affordable fix to enhance the flavour of our mornay sauces.
Breaking the 'Dumbest Rule' in Cooking
One of the most fascinating aspects of this recipe is the challenge it poses to a widely held culinary 'rule': the idea that seafood and cheese should never be combined. This notion is utterly absurd when you consider the myriad of dishes across various cuisines that pair these two ingredients beautifully. From lobster thermidor to tuna melts, and from Greek prawn saganaki to Sicilian swordfish involtini, the combination of seafood and cheese is a global phenomenon. So, when it comes to tuna mornay, don't let anyone tell you it's an odd pairing - it's a classic for a reason!
Perfecting the Pasta Bake
When it comes to pasta bakes, or al forno dishes, the key to success lies in the pasta itself. The Italian trick is to undercook the pasta slightly, leaving it well short of al dente. This ensures that it finishes cooking perfectly in the oven, absorbing just the right amount of moisture from the sauce. By adding a splash of starchy pasta water to the mix, you prevent the dish from drying out, creating a creamy, cohesive bake.
Customizing Your Mornay
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. While the basic version is a budget-friendly delight, there are endless ways to elevate it. Swap the tasty cheese for a sharp cheddar, or go all out with a classic French cheese combination. Experiment with different proteins, from canned salmon to fresh flaked salmon, or even a luxurious mix of ling, prawns, and marinara. For a vegetarian twist, replace the cheese with cooked spinach for a Florentine-style bake, or add spinach alongside the cheese for a burst of colour and nutrition.
The Importance of Texture
A well-executed tuna mornay is not just about the flavours; texture plays a crucial role in elevating the dish. A crisp breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, taking the mornay from good to exceptional. The key is to cook the topping separately, frying coarse breadcrumbs or small bread cubes in a blend of butter, olive oil, and garlic. This creates deliciously crunchy garlic breadcrumbs, a perfect pangrattato topping to scatter over the bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Tuna mornay, with its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and crispy topping, is a testament to the power of simple, affordable cooking. It's a dish that can be customized to suit various tastes and budgets, proving that you don't need expensive ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying meal. So, the next time you're faced with the challenge of feeding your family on a budget, don't underestimate the potential of a classic like tuna mornay. It's a dish that, with a few simple tweaks, can become a family favourite, a true testament to the art of affordable home cooking.
