Patrick Oconnell
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread that is traditionally made with shredded Cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. However, there is no single recipe for pimento cheese, and recipes vary across the Southern United States. While some recipes call for the addition of cream cheese, others suggest adding spices like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños. Pimento cheese is commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos |
| Cheese type | Cheddar, cream cheese, Monterey jack, smoked gouda, blue cheese, smoked cheddar |
| Additional ingredients | Jalapeños, cayenne pepper, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, dijon mustard, adobo sauce, dill, green chilis |
| Texture | Creamy, spreadable, chunky |
| Taste | Tangy, peppery, spicy |
| Colour | Red |
| Serving suggestions | Crackers, celery, carrot and celery sticks, olives, sandwiches, grilled cheese, hamburgers, hotdogs, baked potatoes, deviled eggs |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Pimento cheese ingredients
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread or dip that is commonly served with crackers, celery, carrot sticks, or hollowed-out peppers, or as a sandwich filling. It is typically made with a few core ingredients, but there is no one definitive recipe, and home cooks often add their own unique ingredients to personalise their pimento cheese.
The basic ingredients are:
- Cheese: usually sharp or extra-sharp cheddar, but also Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or cream cheese
- Mayonnaise: preferably Duke's Mayonnaise, which is made with egg yolks and no added sugars
- Pimento peppers: small red peppers that give the spread its signature reddish hue and mild peppery flavour
Some people also add:
- Green onions, red onions, shallots, fresh chives, or onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper
- Paprika
- Dijon mustard
- Adobo sauce
- Dill
Mac & Cheese: Wheat Pasta, Where's It Made?
You may want to see also
Pimento cheese recipes
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread that's traditionally made with shredded Cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It's commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling.
Southern Pimento Cheese
This recipe is a classic take on pimento cheese, which can be used as a spread for crackers or sandwiches, or served with fried green tomatoes.
Ingredients:
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Pimento
- Minced jalapeño
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Place all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until thoroughly combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Pimento Cheese with Smoked Gouda
This recipe adds a smoky twist to the traditional pimento cheese by using smoked gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
- Smoked gouda cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Pimento
- Adobo sauce
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with crackers, small hollowed-out peppers, carrot and celery sticks, or make small sandwiches.
Spicy Pimento Cheese
This recipe adds some spice to the traditional pimento cheese with the addition of jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
- Cheddar cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Pimento
- Jalapeños
- Cayenne pepper
Directions:
Grate the cheddar cheese and mix with the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Creamy Pimento Cheese
This recipe adds cream cheese to the traditional pimento cheese for a tangier and creamier texture.
Ingredients:
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Pimento
- Dijon mustard
- Adobo sauce
- Fresh dill
- Pepper
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with crackers, small hollowed-out peppers, carrot and celery sticks, or use as a sandwich spread.
The Ancient Origins of Cheesecake: A Historical Recipe
You may want to see also
Pimento cheese history
Pimento cheese, also known as "Carolina caviar" or "Southern pate", is a spread typically made of cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is usually served on crackers, vegetables, or in sandwiches. Although it is most closely associated with the cuisine of the Southern United States, its origins can be traced back to the Northern United States in the early 20th century.
The first pimento cheese was a blend of Neufchâtel or cream cheese and diced pimento peppers, with recipes dating back to 1908 in Good Housekeeping and the Up-to-Date Sandwich Book. By 1910, commercial versions of pimento cheese had appeared and were advertised in parts of the north. It is believed that the dish gained popularity in the South due to the availability of less expensive, locally grown pimentos. Southern cooks adapted the recipe using hoop cheese, cheddar, and mayonnaise, creating a bolder flavour.
During World War I, pimento cheese became popular as a sandwich spread as it was easy and inexpensive to make. Food writers offered various suggestions for preparing store-bought pimento cheese, such as grinding it and combining it with cream or adding mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Tabasco. After World War II, the popularity of pimento cheese decreased in most of the US but remained a staple in the South, often made by home cooks and served at church picnics and school potlucks.
Over time, pimento cheese became an iconic Southern dish, celebrated by Southern writers and chefs and featured in restaurant menus. It is known for its versatility and comforting charm, appearing in various forms such as deviled eggs, cheeseburgers, biscuits, and lasagna. Despite its humble beginnings, pimento cheese has become an integral part of Southern cuisine and culture, evoking fond memories of family gatherings and traditions.
Ohio's Jarlsberg Cheese: A Tasty Local Treat
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Pimento cheese alternatives
Pimento cheese is a Southern classic, typically made with cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. It is a creamy, tangy, and peppery dip that can be enjoyed as a spread on sandwiches or crackers, or as a dip with vegetables.
Alternative Ingredients
You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cream cheese, blue cheese, goat cheese, or English goat cheddar. If you're looking for a smoother texture, adding cream cheese or sour cream can enhance the tanginess and spreadability of the pimento cheese.
Spicy Variations
For those who enjoy a kick of spice, adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or fresh chilli peppers can give your pimento cheese an extra punch. You can also include garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin for a savoury twist.
Roasted Red Peppers
If you're looking for a change from the traditional pimento peppers, consider using roasted red peppers. They add a beautiful reddish hue to your pimento cheese and provide a slightly different flavour profile. You can also try fire-roasted green chiles for a unique variation.
Tex-Mex Twist
For a Tex-Mex-inspired pimento cheese, combine pepper Jack cheese, cumin, garlic, chile powder, and lime juice. This versatile mixture can be used as a stuffing, spread, dip, or even fried!
Binder Alternatives
While mayonnaise is the traditional binder, you can experiment with alternatives like Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese, or sour cream. These substitutions can add a tangy twist to your pimento cheese while still providing a creamy texture.
Feel free to get creative and add your own unique ingredients to the mix! Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be customised to your taste preferences.
Freezing Homemade Cheese: What's the Worst That Could Happen?
You may want to see also
Pimento cheese serving suggestions
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
As a Spread
Pimento cheese is often used as a spread on crackers, toast, celery, or other fresh veggie sticks. It can also be spread on sandwiches, burgers, or grilled cheese. For a more indulgent option, try spreading it on a buttermilk biscuit with a swipe of pepper jelly.
As a Dip
This creamy cheese is also perfect for dipping. Serve it with crackers, chips, or fresh veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and peppers. It can also be used as a dip for fried green tomatoes or hollowed-out peppers.
As a Filling
Pimento cheese can be used as a filling for deviled eggs or baked potatoes. It can also be added to grits or used as a topping for hamburgers, hot dogs, or grilled meats.
As an Appetizer
This cheese dish can be served as an easy appetizer or munchie. Spread it on crackers or small pieces of toast, or serve it in a small bowl with veggies or chips for dipping.
As a Sandwich Filling
Pimento cheese is commonly used as a sandwich filling, especially for grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be used to make tea sandwiches or cocktail finger sandwiches.
As a Side
Pimento cheese can be served as a side dish, especially at potlucks, tailgates, or other get-togethers. It pairs well with fried green tomatoes or vegetables like carrots and celery.
Get Creative
Don't be afraid to experiment with pimento cheese. Add your own twist by including ingredients like cream cheese, jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as smoked gouda or white cheddar.
Cheese Wax: What's the Secret Ingredient?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
In its simplest form, pimento cheese is made with three ingredients: cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. However, many recipes also include cream cheese, and some add spices like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and onion powder.
Pimento cheese is traditionally made with an orange cheddar, but aged white cheddar is also a popular option. Other recipes call for smoked gouda, monterey jack, or a combination of multiple types of cheese.
Pimento cheese is a versatile dish that can be customised with various ingredients. Some common additions include green onions, jalapeños, paprika, and Dijon mustard.
