The Magic Ingredients Behind Pimento Cheese's Taste

Pimento cheese is a Southern staple and is often referred to as the caviar of the South. It is a simple condiment made with a combination of cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and spices. The key to a good pimento cheese is to grate the cheese yourself and use good-quality, sharp cheddar. While the traditional recipe calls for jarred pimentos, you can also use roasted red peppers or even grill your own bell peppers for a smoky flavour. To make it spicier, you can add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or paprika. Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a dip with crackers and vegetables, as a sandwich filling, or even as a topping for burgers or fried green tomatoes.

Cheese: extra-sharp Cheddar, white Cheddar, or a mix of mild and sharp Cheddar

The type of cheese used in pimento cheese is important, as it forms the base of the dish. The best pimento cheese recipes call for freshly grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese. This variety of Cheddar ensures that the cheese flavour is distinct and full-bodied. It is best to avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it is coated in powder that can mute the flavour and interfere with the creamy texture of the dish.

Some recipes suggest using a mix of mild and sharp Cheddar, which can be a good option if you prefer a less intense cheese flavour. White Cheddar is also a popular choice, and can add a nice creamy texture to the dish.

For the best results, it is recommended to grate the cheese by hand using a box grater. This ensures that the cheese is as fresh as possible and has the desired texture.

In addition to the Cheddar, some recipes also include cream cheese. Cream cheese enhances the flavour of the Cheddar and makes the pimento cheese spread extra decadent and tangy. It also ensures that the final product is spreadable.

When choosing the cheese for your pimento cheese, it is important to select a high-quality variety. This will make a big difference in the overall flavour and texture of the dish.

With the right combination of cheeses and fresh, high-quality ingredients, your pimento cheese is sure to be a delicious success!

Mayonnaise: preferably Duke's

Mayonnaise is a key ingredient in traditional pimento cheese. While you can use any brand of mayonnaise, Duke's is the preferred choice for an authentic Southern pimento cheese. In fact, some people are very particular about using only Duke's mayonnaise, claiming that it makes the pimento cheese taste better.

The reason for this preference could be that Duke's mayonnaise has a higher vinegar content than other brands, which gives it a tangier taste. Additionally, it has a slightly different blend of spices, which may contribute to its popularity in pimento cheese.

When making pimento cheese, it is recommended to use real mayonnaise instead of salad dressing or Miracle Whip, as these alternatives have a sweeter taste that can overpower the other ingredients.

While Duke's mayonnaise is the traditional choice, you can also use other brands such as Sir Kensington's. Ultimately, the choice of mayonnaise brand is a matter of personal preference, and you can experiment with different options to find the one that suits your taste.

Cream cheese

Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread that is commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling. It is often referred to as the "pâté of the South" or "caviar of the South".

Pimentos: jarred, sliced, or diced

Pimentos are a key ingredient in pimento cheese, a popular Southern spread or dip. They are small red peppers with a mild flavour and are often sold in jars. When buying jarred pimentos, you can choose between sliced or diced. Some recipes suggest that jarred and sliced pimentos are preferable as they can be diced to your desired size before being added to the cheese mixture. Jarred pimentos should be drained before being added to the other ingredients.

Spices: garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper

Pimento cheese is a Southern staple and is often referred to as the "pâté of the South" or even "the caviar of the South". It is a simple condiment that is usually served with celery, crackers, or pretzel thins, and can be made gluten-free.

The spices used in pimento cheese are garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. The garlic powder and cayenne pepper are key to giving pimento cheese its signature flavour. The garlic powder lends a subtle, savoury taste, while the cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that makes you go back for more. These spices can be adjusted to personal preference, with more cayenne pepper added for a spicier version.

The process of making pimento cheese is simple: just mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until they are well combined. It is important to grate the cheese yourself to ensure freshness and the best texture. The pimento cheese can then be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of ways, such as a spread for sandwiches, crackers, or celery sticks, or as a filling for grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be served alongside fried green tomatoes or used to spice up grilled cheese sandwiches.

Frequently asked questions