Randy Chandler
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty that is often orange in colour. It is a popular spread or dip that is commonly served with crackers, vegetables, or as a sandwich filling. The dish is typically made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, which are peppers that give the spread its distinct orange hue. While the dish is associated with Southern cuisine, its origins can be traced back to New York City in the late 1800s, when it was created as a product of industrial food manufacturing and mass marketing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Colour | Orange |
| Ingredients | Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, jalapeño pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, cayenne, blue cheese, goat's cheese |
| Texture | Spreadable, creamy, gooey, chunky paste, "creamy" consistency |
| Taste | Tangy, peppery, spicy, sharp |
| Origin | New York City, Southern U.S. |
| Serving suggestions | Crackers, celery, corn chips, tortilla chips, sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, deviled eggs, biscuits, lasagna, grits, vegetables, chips and dip, grilled cheese sandwiches, panini, grilled cheese sandwiches, cocktail finger sandwiches |
| Variations | Horseradish, salt, Louisiana-style hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, onions, red pepper flakes, jalapenos, cayenne pepper |
| Availability | Grocery stores, local fish markets, online |
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What You'll Learn
Pimento cheese's orange hue comes from pimentos
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern cheese spread with a distinct orange hue. Its orange colour comes from the pimentos, which are peppers. The spread is made from a combination of shredded cheddar or processed cheese, mayonnaise, and sweet pimento peppers, and is typically served with crackers, vegetables, or as a sandwich filling.
Pimento cheese has a long history in the Southern United States and is often referred to as the "pâté of the South" or "Carolina caviar". It is believed to have originated in New York City in the late 1800s when cream cheese and canned pimentos were first introduced. However, it gained popularity in the South when farmers in Georgia began cultivating pimento peppers, making them more accessible and affordable. Over time, the recipe evolved to include shredded cheese and mayonnaise, and it became a beloved staple in Southern cuisine.
The pimentos in pimento cheese provide a slight tang and a peppery flavour. While the spread is not typically spicy, some recipes call for the addition of jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The level of spice can vary, making it accessible to a wide range of palates.
Pimento cheese can be purchased at grocery stores, but it is also simple to make at home. The basic recipe includes shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos mixed into a chunky paste. However, there are many variations and regional ingredients that can be added, such as cream cheese, salt, pepper, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, jalapeños, and onions.
The versatility of pimento cheese is one of its appealing qualities. It can be enjoyed as a spread, dip, or sandwich filling and pairs well with a variety of foods, including crackers, vegetables, burgers, and deviled eggs. Its distinct orange hue, creamy texture, and tangy flavour have made it a beloved and iconic dish in Southern cuisine.
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Pimentos are peppers
Pimentos are a key ingredient in pimento cheese, a popular Southern cheese spread known for its distinct orange hue. The combination of cheddar or cream cheese with pimentos gives pimento cheese its characteristic tangy, peppery flavour. The addition of pimentos not only contributes to the taste but also enhances the colour, resulting in the orange appearance of pimento cheese.
The history of pimento cheese is intriguing, with its origins being a topic of debate. While some argue that it originated in the Deep South, others, like Robert Moss, trace its beginnings to New York City in the late 1800s. According to Moss, pimento cheese emerged from the convergence of newly manufactured American cream cheese, imported canned Spanish peppers (pimentos), and the influence of "domestic scientists" who favoured canned goods for their convenience.
Over time, the recipe evolved, with farmers in Georgia cultivating sweet peppers similar to the imported pimentos, making them more accessible. Shredded cheese and homemade mayonnaise were introduced to the mixture, transforming pimento cheese from a convenient spread to a beloved Southern delicacy.
Today, pimento cheese is enjoyed across the nation and has gained recognition in various menu categories. It can be found in sandwiches, deviled eggs, cheeseburgers, biscuits, and even baked into lasagna, offering a versatile and comforting culinary experience.
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Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty
Pimento cheese is considered a "major Southern institution", something that is "held sacred by Southerners". It is so ingrained in the lives of Southerners that they don't realize that others outside the region don't share their passion for it. It is often called the "pâté of the South" or "pâté du Sud".
While its origins are somewhat murky, it is believed that pimento cheese was born in the late 1800s in New York City, as a product of industrial food manufacturing and mass marketing. It was originally a combination of cream cheese and canned pimentos, two popular and newly available products of the industrial food trade. However, it was adopted by Southern cooks, who started creating their own recipes and elevated it from a thing of convenience to a labor of love.
There are many variations of pimento cheese recipes, but it typically includes sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and some simple seasoning, such as salt and pepper. Common variations include the addition of onions, cream cheese, garlic, Monterey Jack cheese, or blue cheese, and spices such as cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
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It's a versatile spread
Pimento cheese is a versatile spread that can be used in a variety of dishes and recipes. It is a popular Southern specialty, usually with a distinct orange hue, that contains pimentos as a crucial ingredient. The spread is typically made with shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, with some recipes also incorporating cream cheese, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
Pimento cheese can be served in a multitude of ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering. It is commonly spread on crackers, celery, or sandwiches, adding a tangy and creamy texture to these simple foods. For a more indulgent treat, it can be melted on top of a burger or hot dog, providing a gooey and spicy kick. Pimento cheese can also be mixed with mashed yolks for deviled eggs, adding a unique twist to this classic appetizer.
The spread is a true crowd-pleaser and can be the star of any get-together, potluck, or tailgate. It is perfect for sharing and is sure to be a hit with guests, whether served as a dip with crackers or celery, or as a sandwich filling. Pimento cheese is also a great way to elevate a simple meal, such as grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup, or a panini press sandwich.
In addition to its versatility as a spread, pimento cheese can also be used as an ingredient in various recipes. It can be mixed into biscuits, baked into lasagna, or even stuffed into olives. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor can enhance and transform a wide range of dishes, making it a valuable addition to any cook's repertoire.
Pimento cheese is not only versatile in its uses but also in its ingredients. While the classic combination of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos is beloved, many variations and substitutions exist. Different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese, can be used to add sharpness or accommodate dietary restrictions. Spices like jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit different taste preferences and spice tolerances.
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It's easy to make at home
Pimento cheese is easy to make at home, and it's a great way to avoid preservatives and choose your preferred ingredients. It's a simple recipe, but there are many variations to make it your own.
The essential ingredients are cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. You can grate the cheese by hand or use a mixer for a creamier texture. Then, add the mayo, spices, and diced pimentos, and mix until combined. You can also add cream cheese for a thinner, creamier texture. If you want to spice things up, add some jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper.
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It's a classic sandwich spread, but it's also great on crackers, grilled bread, or even in a dip. It's a Southern staple that's perfect for any occasion, and it's easy to see why it's so popular.
Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- Cheddar cheese (extra-sharp variety)
- Pimento peppers
- Mayonnaise
- Cream cheese (optional)
- Spices (garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
- Pickle juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Grate the cheddar cheese into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise, cream cheese (if using), spices, and pickle juice (if using).
- Mix until combined, by hand or with a mixer for a creamier texture.
- Stir in the diced pimento peppers.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make your perfect pimento cheese!
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Frequently asked questions
Pimento cheese gets its orange hue from the pimentos, which are orange peppers.
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty, a spread or dip typically made with cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos.
Pimento cheese has a distinct tangy, peppery flavour. It can be spicy, depending on the recipe and the spices used.
To make pimento cheese, you'll need shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. You can also add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and jalapeños to taste. Simply mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
