Patrick Oconnell
Pimento cheese is a Southern U.S. staple that has become popular worldwide for its creamy, tangy flavor. The spread is made primarily from a blend of cheddar, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. While the basic ingredients of pimento cheese are generally gluten-free, there are a few places where gluten could be introduced. For instance, some processed cheese products or pre-packaged pimentos may contain gluten as an additive or thickener. However, Red Clay Gourmet Classic Sharp Cheddar Pimento Cheese is a gluten-free option that uses hormone-free, aged cheeses from small, sustainable Wisconsin dairies and cage-free eggs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Product | Red Clay Pimento Cheese |
| Gluten-Free | Yes |
| Ingredients | Cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and spices |
| Additives | No artificial preservatives |
| Lactose | Lactose-free |
| Egg | Cage-free |
| GMO | Non-GMO |
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$6.39 $7.99
What You'll Learn
Red Clay Pimento Cheese Ingredients
Pimento cheese is a Southern U.S. staple that has become popular worldwide due to its creamy, tangy flavor. The spread is made primarily from cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, and is often served at picnics and family gatherings.
Red Clay Pimento Cheese is a gourmet variety of this classic spread, made with high-quality, hormone-free, aged cheeses sourced from small, sustainable Wisconsin dairies. The cheese is combined with cage-free egg mayonnaise, and just enough jalapeno and banana peppers, grown and hand-processed in NC, to make it spreadable.
Red Clay Pimento Cheese is crafted in small batches by hand, without the use of machines, to ensure the highest quality and texture. The product is soy, gluten, and lactose-free, making it a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.
While the basic ingredients of traditional pimento cheese are naturally gluten-free, it is important to be cautious when purchasing store-bought versions or ordering at restaurants. Some processed cheese products, mayonnaise brands, or pre-packaged pimentos may incorporate additives, stabilizers, or flavorings that contain gluten. Therefore, it is always advisable to carefully read the labels of individual ingredients to confirm their gluten-free status, especially for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
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Gluten-Free Certification
Pimento cheese is a Southern U.S. staple that has become popular worldwide due to its creamy, tangy flavour. The basic ingredients in traditional pimento cheese—cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise—are naturally gluten-free. However, when considering gluten sources in store-bought pimento cheese or when ordering at restaurants, it is important to be cautious and check the labels of individual ingredients, as some additives, flavourings, or stabilizers may contain gluten.
Red Clay Pimento Cheese is a specialty food that uses hormone-free, aged cheeses from small, sustainable Wisconsin dairies. They are the only pimento spread on the market that utilizes cage-free eggs and all-natural mayo. Their product is soy, gluten, and lactose-free. They make their pimento cheese by hand in small batches, ensuring the highest quality.
When preparing pimento cheese from scratch, you have greater control over the ingredients, reducing the risk of hidden allergens. This makes homemade pimento cheese a safer option for individuals with specific dietary concerns, such as gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
To ensure a gluten-free outcome, it is important to always read product labels and confirm the absence of gluten-containing ingredients. Some mayonnaise brands, processed cheese products, or pre-packaged pimentos may incorporate additives or stabilizers that contain gluten.
For those with gluten sensitivities, it is crucial to be diligent about checking labels and ingredient lists to ensure the absence of gluten. This includes being aware of potential hidden gluten sources, such as flavored or low-fat mayonnaise varieties and processed cheeses that may contain gluten as a stabilizer or thickener.
In summary, while traditional pimento cheese is typically gluten-free, it is important to carefully check the ingredients and preparation methods, especially when purchasing store-bought versions or ordering at restaurants. Making homemade pimento cheese allows for greater control over ingredients and reduces the risk of gluten contamination. Red Clay Pimento Cheese is a gluten-free option available on the market that is carefully crafted and of the highest quality.
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Pimento Cheese History
Pimento cheese is a spread made of cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, typically served on crackers, vegetables, or in sandwiches. Although it is most closely associated with Southern U.S. cuisine, its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century in the Northern United States.
In the early 1900s, pimento cheese was sold by the slice or in jars in groceries across the country. It was a blend of Neufchâtel or cream cheese and diced pimento peppers, which were imported from Spain at the time. With the onset of World War I, the need to feed troops and volunteers inexpensively brought sandwich spreads like pimento cheese into vogue. Food writers and cookbooks instructed readers on how to turn store-bought pimento cheese into something more interesting, such as by adding mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Tabasco.
By 1909, Eva Green Fuller's "Up-to-Date Sandwich Book" included a recipe calling for pimentos and Neufchatel. By 1910, commercial versions of pimento cheese had appeared, and ads were running in parts of the north. However, the use of expensive imported Spanish pimentos meant that southern farmers began growing their own to supply a less costly product. Southern cooks adapted the recipe using hoop cheese and mayonnaise, and it became a staple in Southern cuisine.
After World War II, pimento cheese's popularity decreased in most of the U.S. but remained strong in the South. It was not well-known outside the region until the early 2000s when Southern writers and chefs began celebrating the spread, publishing recipes, and even putting it on restaurant menus. Today, pimento cheese is a beloved part of Southern culture, often found at picnics, family gatherings, and even weddings.
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Homemade Pimento Cheese
Ingredients:
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded for the best texture and taste)
- Mayonnaise (good quality)
- Jarred diced pimentos (sweet red peppers)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients:
- Cream cheese
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick
- Pickle juice
Instructions:
- Grate the cheese into a large mixing bowl. It's best to grate your own cheese to avoid pre-shredded cheese's anti-caking additives, which can affect the taste and texture.
- Add the mayonnaise, diced pimentos, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mixing bowl.
- Stir or mix the ingredients by hand or with a mixer until well combined and creamy.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the amount of Worcestershire sauce to your preference.
- Transfer the pimento cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour or, ideally, 24 hours, to let the flavors meld.
The homemade pimento cheese will last for up to a week in the refrigerator. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a dip with crackers or vegetables, spread on sandwiches or burgers, or used in various recipes like macaroni and cheese, jalapeño poppers, or phyllo shells.
Regarding gluten content, traditional pimento cheese ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, when making homemade pimento cheese, it's essential to check the labels of individual ingredients, especially mayonnaise and processed cheese, as some brands may contain gluten-containing additives or stabilizers. For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, preparing pimento cheese from scratch allows for greater control over ingredients, ensuring a gluten-free outcome.
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Gluten-Free Alternatives
For those who are gluten-intolerant or choose to avoid gluten for health reasons, there are several alternatives to traditional bread and crackers that can be enjoyed with pimento cheese. Gluten-free breads have improved vastly in taste and texture, and there are many options available in most supermarkets. Look for gluten-free varieties of sourdough, rye, or multigrain bread, which will provide a similar flavor profile to traditional bread. For a lighter option, try rice crackers or corn crackers, which provide a crispy base for the pimento cheese without the gluten. There are also gluten-free crispbreads made from seeds and grains, offering a nutritious and crunchy alternative.
If you're looking for a more indulgent gluten-free option, there are some fantastic gluten-free bagels and soft pretzels on the market. These can be toasted and used as a base for pimento cheese, providing a chewy and satisfying texture. Gluten-free baguettes and French bread are also available, which, when sliced and toasted, can be the perfect vessel for a schmear of pimento cheese. For a more unique option, try gluten-free breadsticks or gluten-free pita chips, which provide a crunchy and dippable alternative to crackers.
In addition to these bread and cracker alternatives, there are plenty of naturally gluten-free options to enjoy with pimento cheese. Vegetables such as celery, carrots, and bell peppers can be used as dippers, providing a crisp and healthy contrast to the creamy cheese. Gluten-free chips, such as tortilla chips or corn chips, are also a great option for scooping up pimento cheese. For a more substantial meal, try stuffing gluten-free peppers or mushrooms with pimento cheese and baking them in the oven.
When it comes to choosing a gluten-free beer to pair with your pimento cheese, there are also plenty of options available. Many breweries now offer gluten-free beers made with sorghum, rice, or buckwheat, providing a similar flavor profile to traditional beers. Look for gluten-free IPAs, lagers, or stouts, which can provide a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment to the spicy and creamy cheese.
With these gluten-free alternatives, those avoiding gluten can still enjoy the delicious and versatile world of pimento cheese. From gluten-free breads and crackers to naturally gluten-free dippers and beers, there's no need to miss out on this Southern delicacy. So, whether you're gluten-intolerant or simply choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, you can still indulge in the rich and tangy flavors of pimento cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Red Clay Pimento Cheese is gluten-free. It is made with hormone-free, aged cheeses from small, sustainable Wisconsin dairies, and cage-free eggs and all-natural mayo.
The ingredients in Red Clay Pimento Cheese include hormone-free, aged cheeses, cage-free eggs, all-natural mayo, and jalapeno and banana peppers.
Yes, there are several gluten-free options similar to pimento cheese, including guacamole, tzatziki, baba ganoush, and cashew cheese spread.
Traditional pimento cheese is typically made with a blend of cheddar, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise.
While the basic ingredients of pimento cheese are generally gluten-free, some store-bought versions may include additives or flavorings that contain gluten. It is always best to check the ingredient list.
