Frederic Melton
Pimento cheese is a spread made with a combination of cheeses, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is typically served on crackers, celery, or in sandwiches. While the recipe originated in the Northern United States in the early 20th century, it is now closely associated with Southern cuisine. The spread is versatile and can be used as a dip for crudites, a topping for hamburgers or hotdogs, or as a filling for sandwiches. The cheese used in pimento cheese is typically cheddar, although some recipes call for a mix of mild and sharp cheddar, or the addition of cream cheese for a tangier, creamier texture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Cheddar, Cream Cheese, Extra-Sharp Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Smoked Cheddar, Gouda |
| Other Ingredients | Mayonnaise, Pimentos, Jalapeños, Garlic Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Black Pepper, Onion Powder, Worcestershire Sauce |
| Texture | Spreadable, Fluffy, Smooth, Creamy |
| Taste | Tangy, Peppery, Spicy, Cheesy |
| Serving Suggestions | Crackers, Celery, Corn Chips, Tortilla Chips, Sandwiches, Burgers, Hotdogs, Fried Green Tomatoes |
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What You'll Learn
Pimento spread is made with cheddar cheese
Pimento spread is a popular Southern dish that is traditionally made with shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling. While the basic recipe calls for shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos, there are many variations that include additional ingredients such as cream cheese, jalapeños, and spices.
The key to a great pimento spread is using high-quality, extra-sharp cheddar cheese and grating it by hand to achieve the best texture and flavour. Pre-shredded cheese is coated in powder, which can mute the flavour and affect the creamy texture of the spread. By grating your own cheese, you can control the size of the shreds and ensure a smoother, more spreadable consistency.
The type of cheddar cheese used can also be varied to suit personal preference. While some recipes call for extra-sharp cheddar to enhance the cheesy flavour, others suggest using a mix of mild and sharp cheddar for a more balanced taste. Additionally, different varieties of cheddar, such as white cheddar, smoked cheddar, or even Gouda, can be used to add unique flavours and colours to the spread.
To make the pimento spread, the grated cheddar cheese is combined with the remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl. This typically includes mayonnaise, pimentos, and various seasonings. Some recipes also include cream cheese, which adds tanginess and enhances the spreadability of the final product. The ingredients are then mixed until they are thoroughly combined and have a smooth, creamy texture.
Pimento spread is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. It can be served as a dip with crackers, celery, or chips, or used as a spread on sandwiches, burgers, or grilled cheese. The spread is a popular Southern staple and is often brought to potlucks, tailgates, and other gatherings due to its crowd-pleasing flavour and ease of preparation.
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Mayonnaise is a key ingredient
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread that's traditionally made with shredded Cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling. Mayonnaise is a key ingredient in traditional pimento cheese. It amps up the flavour of the cheese and gives the spread its characteristic texture.
Mayonnaise is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the flavour and texture of pimento cheese. Firstly, it provides a creamy base that binds all the ingredients together, creating a smooth and spreadable consistency. The creamy texture of mayonnaise ensures that the pimento cheese spread is easy to apply on crackers, sandwiches, or vegetables.
Secondly, mayonnaise adds a subtle tanginess and richness to the pimento cheese. Its slightly acidic and savoury notes complement the sharpness of the Cheddar cheese. By using mayonnaise, the overall flavour profile of the spread becomes more well-rounded and indulgent.
Additionally, mayonnaise acts as a flavour enhancer, intensifying the taste of the cheese and other ingredients in the spread. It helps to balance the sharpness of the Cheddar, the sweetness of the pimentos, and any added spices or seasonings. This balance creates a harmonious blend of flavours that makes pimento cheese so appealing to many palates.
The type of mayonnaise used can also impact the final taste and texture of the pimento cheese. Some recipes recommend using Duke's Mayonnaise for its preferred flavour profile in this classic Southern dish. However, the choice of mayonnaise can be customised according to personal preference or regional variations.
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Pimentos are jarred or canned
Pimentos, also known as pimiento peppers, are a type of sweet pepper with very little heat. They are most commonly found jarred or canned in grocery stores. Fresh pimentos are not often found in stores, but they can be purchased from farmers' markets and kept in the fridge for up to a week. Canned pimentos can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days after opening, provided they are kept tightly covered. To extend the shelf life of opened canned pimentos, they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Pimentos are a versatile ingredient with various uses in cooking. They are perhaps best known as a key ingredient in pimento cheese, a spread or dip typically made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. This spread is commonly served on crackers, vegetables, or sandwiches and is especially popular in Southern cuisine.
In addition to their role in pimento cheese, pimentos have a range of other culinary applications. They can be used in the same way as roasted red peppers, adding a sweet pepper flavour and a pop of colour to dishes like rice, pasta salad, soups, and chilis. Pimentos are also commonly used as a stuffing for green olives and, when dried, they are a key ingredient in paprika spice.
When purchasing jarred or canned pimentos, it is important to inspect the container for any signs of damage, such as leaking, rusting, bulging, or severe dents. These may indicate that the product is spoiled and should be discarded. Additionally, always check the odour, flavour, appearance, and mould when using pimentos, as these can also indicate spoilage.
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Jalapeños add spice
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread made with a combination of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It is commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling.
While the classic version of pimento cheese does not include jalapeños, they can be added to the mix to create a spicy twist on the traditional recipe. The addition of jalapeños gives the spread a kick of heat and a peppery tang. The spice level can be adjusted to suit individual preferences by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
The process of making jalapeño pimento cheese involves shredding extra-sharp cheddar cheese, draining and dicing jalapeños, and combining them with other ingredients such as mayonnaise, cream cheese, and pimentos. The mixture is then seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. It is important to ensure that the jalapeños are thoroughly drained to avoid any excess liquid affecting the texture of the spread.
Jalapeño pimento cheese can be served in various ways, including as a spread for crackers, sandwiches, or celery sticks, as a topping for burgers or fried green tomatoes, or as a dip for vegetables or chips. It adds a punch of flavour to dishes and is a versatile condiment.
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Pimento spread is a Southern staple
While the exact origins of pimento spread are debated, it is believed to have originated in the Northern United States in the early 20th century. However, it was in the South that the spread truly flourished and became a beloved part of the regional cuisine. Southern farmers began growing pimentos to provide a more affordable alternative to the expensive canned Spanish pimentos used in the original recipes. This adaptation, along with the use of hoop cheese and mayonnaise, helped solidify the spread's popularity in the South.
Over time, pimento spread became an iconic symbol of Southern hospitality and cuisine. It is a comfort food that evokes a sense of home and family, with many Southerners recalling fond memories of their mothers', grandmothers', or aunts' pimento cheese recipes. The spread is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Southern cooks, who took a simple recipe and transformed it into a beloved delicacy.
The key to a delicious pimento spread lies in the quality of its ingredients. It is essential to use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded cheese can mute the flavour and affect the creamy texture. While the addition of cream cheese is a matter of personal preference, it adds a decadent tanginess and enhances the spreadability of the final product. The use of jarred pimentos, rather than fresh ones, is also important, as they provide the spread with its signature reddish hue and distinct flavour.
Preparing pimento spread is a straightforward process that requires no cooking. Simply mix the ingredients until they are well combined, and season to taste with salt, pepper, and cayenne for an extra kick. The spread can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a convenient option for busy hosts. Whether served as a simple snack or an elegant appetiser, pimento spread is a true crowd-pleaser that embodies the warmth and flavour of Southern culture and hospitality.
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Frequently asked questions
The cheese used for pimento spread is typically Cheddar.
Other types of cheese that can be used include cream cheese, white cheddar, smoked cheddar, gouda, and neufchatel.
Traditional pimento spread is made with shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos.
Some variations include adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Pimento spread is typically served on crackers, celery, or sandwiches. It can also be used as a dip for vegetables or chips.
