Frederic Melton
Pimento cheese is a beloved staple in the South, and it has gained popularity across the US. It is a combination of hand-grated cheddar, diced pimentos, and creamy mayonnaise with a slight kick. While there are plenty of store-bought options available in supermarkets and online, such as Publix Cheese Spread, Price's Pimiento Cheese Spread, and Birchrun Hills Farm, many people prefer to make it from scratch at home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pimento cheese brands | Publix Cheese Spread, MyThreeSons Gourmet, Price’s Pimiento Cheese Spread, Birchrun Hills Farm, Caroline's Cakes |
| Pimento cheese availability | Widely available in the U.S. |
| Pimento cheese recipes | Include cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, cream cheese, pimientos, grated onion, onion powder, cayenne, red wine vinegar, cayenne pepper sauce, pepper jack, and extra sharp cheddar |
| Pimento cheese uses | Spreads, dips, toast-topping, sandwiches, grilled cheese, burgers, mac and cheese, casseroles, sauces |
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What You'll Learn
Pimento cheese in the US
Pimento cheese is a beloved staple in the US, especially in the South. While it is available in most supermarkets across the country, the quality of store-bought pimento cheese varies, and some prefer to make their own.
Palmetto Cheese is a popular brand of pimento cheese, available in over 10,000 locations across the United States. It can be found in the deli or specialty section of grocery stores. It is made with Wisconsin sharp cheddar, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and chopped pimentos, and has the taste and texture of homemade pimento cheese. However, some people have expressed disapproval of the brand due to the controversial statements made by the owner in 2020.
Other brands of pimento cheese available in the US include Publix Cheese Spread, which uses American cheese and salad dressing instead of mayonnaise, and Price's Pimiento Cheese Spread, which can be found in the dairy or deli section of local supermarkets. Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company also offers an award-winning Pimento Cheese Spread that can be purchased online and shipped across the contiguous United States, Alaska, and Hawaii.
For those who prefer to make their own pimento cheese, recipes can be found online, and the necessary ingredients can likely be sourced from local supermarkets or specialty food stores. Some people also recommend trying pimento cheese from local restaurants or delis, such as River and Rail, or Kroger, which was mentioned by a Reddit user as a good option for larger quantities.
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Pimento cheese in the South
Pimento cheese is a Southern staple, a popular spread that's traditionally made with shredded Cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It's commonly served with crackers and vegetables or as a sandwich filling. It is often called the "pâté of the South" or "Carolina caviar". It is a beloved staple that every good Southerner has in their fridge at all times. It is served cold and is perfect for picnics and family gatherings.
Pimento cheese is a curious condiment. While Southerners have fond memories of the dish, Northerners are often unfamiliar with it. Despite its heritage in the lower states, it is surprising to learn that this recipe hails from New York. The first documented recipes started appearing as early as 1908 in Good Housekeeping and the Up-to-Date Sandwich Book. It was originally made with Neufchâtel cheese and diced pimento peppers and was sold by the slice or in a jar in early 1900s groceries across the country.
The dish was brought to the South when a Georgian farmer started growing and distributing pimento peppers in the U.S. The recipe was changed and improved when it made its way South. The flavour of the original was very mild, so Southerners traded it for bolder cheddar cheese and added mayonnaise to balance out the texture.
Today, there are many places in the South where you can buy pimento cheese. Some popular brands include Palmetto, Ruth's, and MyThreeSons Gourmet. You can also find it at restaurants like Tupelo Honey Cafe in North Carolina, which serves it warm with tortilla chips, and Van Horne Sandwich shop, which offers it in classic and grilled forms. You can also make it at home, following recipes from culinary experts like Nicole McLaughlin and Anne Byrn.
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Pimento cheese in North Carolina
Pimento cheese is a beloved staple in North Carolina, with many options available for purchase. If you're looking for the best pimento cheese in the state, here are some places to consider:
Musten & Crutchfield
Musten & Crutchfield is a well-known grocery store in Kernersville, North Carolina, that has been in business since 1938. Their pimento cheese is famous, with a loyal customer base that travels from all over to get their fix. The recipe dates back to the Great Depression, created by Elva Musten using cheese, mayonnaise, and perhaps a touch of magic. You can find their store at 245 N Main Street, Kernersville, or order online at mustenandcrutchfield.com.
Conrad & Hinkle
Conrad & Hinkle is another iconic pimento cheese destination in Lexington, North Carolina. Their pimento cheese is a closely guarded secret, and many try and fail to recreate it at home. The family-owned business has been around for a long time, and their product is carried in grocery stores across the state. However, many still make the pilgrimage to their store for that authentic experience. You can find them at 6 North Main Street, Lexington, or visit their website at conrad-hinkle.com.
Queen Charlotte's Pimento Cheese Royale
Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Queen Charlotte's Pimento Cheese Royale offers a variety of pimento cheese flavours. Their products are available in 31 states and can be found in local grocery stores such as Food Lion, Harris Teeter, and Publix. If you're in the area, be sure to try the Carolina Burger topped with their pimento cheese at 1897 Market in Charlotte.
Birdie's Pimento Cheese
Birdie's Pimento Cheese is a seasonal treat, available only during the winter holiday season. It has gained a reputation as one of the best pimento cheeses, with fans from Texas to North Carolina. While it may be hard to come by, keep an eye out for it during the holidays, and you won't be disappointed.
MyThreeSons Gourmet
MyThreeSons Gourmet, a family-owned and operated business in Greensboro, North Carolina, offers a pimento cheese that has been praised for its sharp flavour and homemade texture. It has been described as "intense, sharp, with a nice bite and a hint of heat." If you're looking for a pimento cheese that stands out from the rest, this might be the one for you.
Whether you're a North Carolina native or just visiting, be sure to try some of the state's famous pimento cheese. These destinations will provide you with an authentic taste of this Southern delicacy.
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Pimento cheese in New York
Pimento cheese is a simple mix of cheddar, red bell pepper, and mayonnaise. It is a Southern dish that can be served with crackers or as a sandwich spread. If you're looking for pimento cheese in New York, there are several options to choose from.
Bobwhite Counter, a popular choice among New Yorkers, offers a pimento cheese sandwich for $8, which can be served on white bread. Serious Eats has described their version as "a creamy, fatty treat." Whitmans is another restaurant that serves a Juicy Lucy burger with a molten centre of pimento cheese, made with a short-rib blend, caramelized onion, spicy pickles, and an ooze of pimento cheese.
For a more classic option, Van Horn Sandwich Shop in Brooklyn offers a Toasted Pimento Cheese Sandwich for $8, which is similar to a grilled cheese sandwich with pimentos. The Commodore offers a unique take on the pimento cheese sandwich, calling it "adult cheese" for just $6. If you're looking for something more indulgent, Pig & Egg has a Hot Ham and Pimento Cheese sandwich on the menu for $12, served on a baguette with grilled country ham.
For those who prefer to make their own pimento cheese at home, Whole Foods and Trader Joe's offer pre-made options, or you can find the necessary ingredients at Murray's Cheese Bar or Murray's Cheese in Bleecker.
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Homemade pimento cheese
Pimento cheese is a popular Southern spread or relish that includes cheese, mayo, and pimentos. It’s often called the “pâté of the South,” “Carolina caviar,” and “the caviar of the South”. While store-bought pimento cheese is easily accessible, homemade pimento cheese is a level above in terms of taste and freshness.
Ingredients
To make your own pimento cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Diced pimentos
- Cream cheese
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Green onions
- Paprika
- Hot sauce
- Black pepper
Method
- Combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a food processor until smooth.
- Cut the cheddar cheese into small pieces and add them to the food processor. Process until the cheese is grated and well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and add the diced pimentos.
- Stir everything together and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips
- It is important to use a block of sharp cheddar cheese and grate it yourself to get the right texture.
- You can add in some green onions, paprika, and black pepper to enhance the flavour.
- If you prefer a smoother dip, you can process all the ingredients together in a food processor until you reach your desired consistency.
- You can also add in some hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy pimento cheese from most supermarkets.
You can buy pimento cheese online from specialist food retailers.
The best pimento cheese brand is a matter of personal preference, but popular brands include MyThreeSons Gourmet, Publix Cheese Spread, and Price's Pimiento Cheese Spread.
Yes, you can make pimento cheese at home by combining hand-grated Cheddar, diced pimientos, and a little cayenne all bundled up in some creamy mayonnaise.
Pimento cheese is a popular spread for crackers or sandwiches. It can also be used as a topping for grilled chicken or as a dip for chips and crudites.
