Friday, November 8, 2013

What Is Pimento Cheese







Pimento cheese is a traditional food found mainly in the southern United States. It is a simple cheese spread that is ingrained in Southern culture and used as a quick meal or as an appetizer. With only a few ingredients and many varieties, this is an easy spread to make.


Ingredients


Pimento cheese is made from very simple ingredients, the basics of which are pimentos, sharp cheddar cheese and mayonnaise. A bit of mustard, salt and pepper can be added as well as onions, garlic, and horseradish (all optional).


Geography


Pimento cheese is traditionally and culturally tied with the southern United States, particularly around Georgia. Outside of this area, pimento cheese may be eaten occasionally but it is rarely a common food as it is in the South.


History


The exact origin of pimento cheese is unclear, though it began to be widely made and consumed during the early 1900's as a quick snack on southern U.S. farms.


Culinary Use


Pimento cheese is commonly used in sandwiches with white bread. It is also eaten as a spread or a dip,or mixed in with foods such as grits or mashed potatoes.


Cooking


Pimento cheese is very easy to make, which is one of the main reasons it is made so often. Simply combine all the ingredients together and blend by hand or using a food processor.

Tags: Pimento cheese, pimento cheese, southern United, southern United States, United States