Pimento cheese is a staple of Southern cuisine. The combination of flavors seems to burst on your tongue and it is suitable for a quick snack, or to serve as a party appetizer. The ingredients are pantry and refrigerator staples that many people have on hand. Once you discover the mixture of ingredients in pimento cheese, you can customize the recipe and add your favorite cheeses or spices.
Basic Ingredients
The three basic ingredients of pimento cheese are shredded cheese, pimentos and mayonnaise. The mayonnaise acts as the binder that holds the other ingredients together. The cheese spread is often made in a food processor, which blends the ingredients and chops the shredded cheese into a smoother consistency. Salt, pepper and other spices are added to give the mixture more flavor.
Possible Add-Ins
Different pimento cheese recipes call for varying ingredients. Many recipes use sharp cheddar cheese, which has a tart and distinctive flavor; some call for Monterey jack cheese, which has a milder flavor; and still others use a combination of the two cheeses. Cream cheese is also used in some recipes, as it makes the finished product smoother and easier to spread. Garlic and green onions also add more flavor, and chopped dill pickles are even found in some recipes.
Commercial Blends
When shopping online or at your local grocery store, you might find commercial pimento cheese spread. The ingredients in commercial spreads vary significantly from the homemade versions because the manufacturer must create large batches at one time and ship the mixture across the country. Commercial spreads typically use American cheese or imitation cheese, which is made from oil and has a blander and more mellow flavor than real cheese made with milk. The spreads also use oil for a spreadable consistency and artificial flavors and preservatives.
Serving Suggestions
Spread pimento cheese on toasted or untoasted white bread for a quick meal. If you're entertaining a large group, fill a large bowl with the cheese mixture and serve with crackers or chopped vegetables. Pimento cheese is also an interesting substitute for mayonnaise or mustard on hamburgers and hotdogs. Give chili cheese dogs a fresh look and taste by spreading pimento cheese on the bun, adding a cooked hot dog, and topping with homemade chili, chopped onions, and a small amount of shredded cheese.
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