Bushra Griffith
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a spread or dip made from a combination of shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos (also known as pimientos). The dish is creamy, tangy, and peppery, with a rich texture and signature red flecks from the jarred pimentos. Pimento cheese can be served in a variety of ways, including as a spread on crackers or sandwiches, a topping for hamburgers or hotdogs, or mixed into deviled eggs or biscuits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy, spreadable, chunky, fluffy, gooey |
| Taste | Tangy, peppery, spicy, savoury |
| Colour | Red flecks |
| Ingredients | Cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, cream cheese, jalapeños, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, onion powder, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, scallions, dill, horseradish, Louisiana-style hot sauce, gouda, piquillo peppers, roasted red peppers, pickled peppadews, white miso, roasted red bell peppers, grated onions |
| Variations | With or without cream cheese, with or without jalapeños, with or without Sriracha |
| Serving suggestions | Crackers, celery, corn chips, tortilla chips, deviled eggs, grits, hamburgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, cocktail finger sandwiches, hamburgers, hot sandwiches, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fried green tomatoes, smash burgers, biscuits, lasagna, cheeseburgers, tomatoes, cobbler |
| Origin | Southern US |
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What You'll Learn
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty
The basic recipe typically includes grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos, mixed into a chunky paste. However, the ingredients and even the spelling ("pimento" or "pimiento") are sources of controversy. Some people add cream cheese, while others argue that it dilutes the flavour and changes the texture. Regional ingredients and variations include horseradish, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, jalapeños, onions, and garlic.
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish, and its relatively mild flavour and rich texture make it a popular choice for chefs and recipe developers looking to experiment. It can be added to mac and cheese, deviled eggs, biscuits, or even baked into lasagna. It can also be used to make unique dishes such as Tomato Cobbler with Pimento Cheese Biscuits, Pimento Cheese Hush Puppies, and Baked Ham and Pimento Cheese Egg Cups.
Pimento cheese is said to have originated outside of the South, but it has become a beloved part of Southern cuisine and culture. It has been referred to as the "caviar of the South" and has been associated with Southern hospitality and comfort food. It is often made from family recipes passed down through generations, and its popularity has endured, with an increasing number of Southern chefs and writers celebrating and sharing their own recipes in recent years.
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It is a spread made with cheese, mayo, and pimentos
Pimento cheese is a spread made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is a Southern specialty that has been referred to as the "pâté of the South", "pâté du Sud", "Carolina caviar", and "the caviar of the South". Pimento cheese is typically made with grated or shredded cheddar cheese, although some recipes call for a mix of mild and sharp cheddar, or even cream cheese. The cheese is combined with mayonnaise, which amplifies the cheesy flavour, and pimentos, which give the spread its signature red flecks.
While the base recipe is simple, there are many variations and additional ingredients that can be added to suit individual preferences. These include cream cheese, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, onions, and garlic. Some people also like to add a kick of spice with jalapeños or Sriracha. Pimento cheese can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months.
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It is often used as a spread on crackers, celery, or sandwiches, or as a topping for hamburgers, hotdogs, or grits. It can also be scooped onto corn chips or tortilla chips, or mixed into deviled eggs, mac and cheese, or biscuits. Pimento cheese has a rich texture and a tangy, creamy, and cheesy flavour. It is a popular dish in the South and has been featured in restaurants and on menus across the country.
Pimento cheese is also known as "cheese pimiento" in the Philippines, where a similar dish is made with queso de bola. In the South, pimento cheese is a beloved dish with a long history, often associated with family and nostalgia. It has been said that "every refrigerator in the South has pimento cheese in it"!
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It can be served as a dip, on crackers, or as a sandwich filling
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty, commonly served as a dip, on crackers, or as a sandwich filling. It is a creamy, tangy, and peppery spread, with a rich texture and signature red flecks from the pimento peppers.
As a dip, pimento cheese can be served with crackers, crudité, or corn chips. It is a popular party dip, bringing a dose of nostalgia to any gathering. The spread is also commonly used as a sandwich filling, often served as a classic grilled cheese or a cocktail finger sandwich. Pimento cheese sandwiches have a long history at the Masters Tournament, where they have been a concession since the 1940s.
Pimento cheese can also be added to other dishes, such as mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, burgers, or hot dogs. It can be mixed into biscuits, mac and cheese, or even baked goods like lasagna. The spread is quite versatile, making it a favourite among chefs and recipe developers looking for a jumping-off point for experimentation.
The basic recipe for pimento cheese typically includes grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos, mixed into a chunky paste. However, there are many variations, and additional ingredients can include cream cheese, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, jalapeños, onions, and garlic. Some recipes suggest substituting piquillo peppers, roasted red peppers, or peppadews for the pimentos, or adding scallions or fresh dill for extra flavour.
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern dish that has gained popularity beyond its regional origins, with many people now considering it a party staple and a favourite menu item.
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It has a rich texture and a tangy, creamy flavour
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty with a rich texture and a tangy, creamy flavour. It is a spread made from a combination of shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, with various seasonings and spices. The result is a dip or sandwich filling that is both cheesy and tangy, with a hint of spice.
The key to achieving the rich texture and tangy flavour of pimento cheese lies in the quality and combination of ingredients. Firstly, the type of cheese used is important. Traditional recipes call for shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, which provides a strong and tangy flavour. However, some variations use a mix of mild and sharp Cheddar, or even other types of cheese like Gouda, to create a more subtle taste. Grating the cheese from a block, instead of using pre-shredded cheese, is recommended for the best texture and flavour.
Mayonnaise is another essential ingredient, adding creaminess and enhancing the cheesy flavour. Some recipes also include cream cheese, which makes the spread even richer and creamier, although traditionalists argue that it dilutes the cheesy taste. Pimentos, also known as pimientos, are the signature ingredient that gives pimento cheese its distinctive red flecks and tangy flavour. They can be purchased jarred and sliced, or whole to be diced at home.
To enhance the flavour and add a kick of spice, various seasonings and spices can be used. Cayenne pepper is a popular choice, adding subtle heat. Fresh jalapeños can also be minced and added for a spicier version, although they are usually considered optional. Other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper can be included to taste, with some recipes even incorporating hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an extra tangy kick.
The combination of these ingredients, mixed until well-combined, results in a rich and tangy pimento cheese. The spread is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from crackers and celery to sandwiches and burgers. The rich texture and tangy flavour make it a popular choice for those seeking a creamy, cheesy dish with a hint of spice.
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It can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a spread, dip, or sandwich filling. It can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a convenient option for parties, picnics, or quick meals.
To make pimento cheese, simply mix shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos until well combined. You can also add cream cheese, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and other spices to taste. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to stop mixing before the pimentos are completely pulverized, as you want to retain some texture in the final product.
Once prepared, store the pimento cheese in a shallow, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or upcoming events. If you're making a large batch, you can also freeze pimento cheese for up to three months. However, it's worth noting that freezing may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
When serving pimento cheese, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to bring out its full flavor and texture. This creamy and tangy spread is perfect for crackers, celery, or chips. It can also be used as a topping for hamburgers, hotdogs, or even mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs.
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Frequently asked questions
Pimento cheese is a creamy, reddish spread. It gets its colour from the pimento peppers, which are usually jarred.
Pimento cheese is a Southern specialty, made from a mixture of shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimento peppers.
Pimento cheese is tangy, creamy, cheesy, and peppery. It can also be spicy if ingredients like jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce are added.
Pimento cheese is often served as a spread on crackers, celery, or sandwiches. It can also be scooped onto corn chips or tortilla chips, or used as a topping for hamburgers or hot dogs.
Pimento cheese has been a popular dish in the Southern US since the early 2000s. It is believed to have originated in the North but has since become a Southern staple, with many Southerners claiming it as their own.
