Ah, the joys of Southern cuisine! Pimento cheese is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing back memories of lazy summer afternoons and family gatherings where laughter fills the air. I once tried to describe its taste to a friend by comparing it to a symphony of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes—each bite a crescendo of flavor.
Steps
- Gather your ingredients: shredded Swiss cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, cayenne pepper, ground mustard, sugar, minced garlic, and diced pimentos.
- Place all ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
- Use a hand mixer, stand mixer, or spatula to thoroughly combine the ingredients until they are well blended.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more mayonnaise if you desire a creamier texture.
- Once satisfied with the flavor and consistency, transfer the pimento cheese to a container for serving or storage. Enjoy it as a spread or dip with your choice of bread, crackers, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces shredded Swiss cheese
- 14 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ? cups mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pimentos, drained and diced (amount as desired)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3888kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 128g | Fat: 368g | Saturated Fat: 112g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 144g | Monounsaturated Fat: 80g | Trans Fat: 0.64g | Cholesterol: 560mg | Sodium: 4720mg | Potassium: 528mg | Fiber: 0.48g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 4560IU | Vitamin C: 1.6mg | Calcium: 3936mg | Iron: 1.6mg
FAQ
- Are pimento peppers spicy, and what do they taste like?
- Pimento peppers are a type of chile pepper known for their mild, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. They are not spicy, which makes them perfect for adding a subtle sweetness and color to dishes like pimento cheese.
- Is the pimento cheese spread spicy?
- The recipe includes a small amount of cayenne pepper, which is primarily for flavor enhancement rather than spiciness. If you prefer no heat, you can omit the cayenne pepper without affecting the overall taste significantly.
- What other names is pimento cheese known by?
- Pimento cheese is commonly referred to as “pimento pepper dip” or “Southern pâté,” and is often affectionately called “pâté du Sud.”
- What can I use if I don’t want to use mayonnaise in pimento cheese?
- While mayonnaise is key for the creaminess and tang, you can substitute it with alternatives like plant-based mayonnaise, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or sour cream for a different texture and flavor.
- Is this pimento cheese recipe gluten-free?
- The recipe itself does not include any gluten-containing ingredients. However, always check the labels of individual ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Tips
- Customize the Cheese: While the recipe features Swiss and Sharp Cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cream cheese, white cheddar, or even Velveeta to suit your taste preferences.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the creaminess of the spread.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier pimento cheese, add more cayenne pepper or include finely diced jalapeños to enhance the heat level.
- Experiment with Mix-ins: Enhance your pimento cheese by adding ingredients such as garlic powder, hot sauce, red peppers, or green onions to create unique flavor variations.
Equipment
- Hand Mixer
- 32-ounce Food Storage Container
