SIMPLE PIMENTO CHEESE
Referred to as the caviar or pâté of the south, Pimento Cheese is quintessentially Southern; despite its origin tracing back to the North – New York exactly – and inarguably iconic. What’s more, it’s magic!! I cannot get enough of the stuff since trying it for the first time in a ham sandwich with pickles on sliced Pan de Mie from Gracious Bakery, house made. And a shopping trip to Rouses wouldn’t be complete without buying a tub of this decadent concoction; spooned over buttery Ritz Crackers. More recently, I got to making my own. And although I tried to stay rooted in Southern tradition, I deracinate My Simple Pimento Cheese for a little East Coast swing with the addition of Philly Cream Cheese and Miracle Whip for a sweet and tangy spread to enjoy with great relish. Once a Yankee…
PREP TIME: 10 Minutes
Makes One Quart
INGREDIENTS
One 8 Oz Package – Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Room Temp
1 Cup – Miracle Whip
One 4 Oz Jar – Diced Pimento, or
½ Cup – Finely Chopped Roasted Red Pepper
One 12 Oz Bag – Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
A Splash of Worcestershire Sauce
A Pinch of Coarse Black Pepper (Optional)
THE NITTY GRITTY
In a large mixing bowl, add cream cheese, Miracle Whip, diced pimento (including liquid) and Worcestershire; using a hand mixer, blend till smooth.
Fold in shredded cheese till fully blended. Add pepper to taste.
Chill for two hours before serving.
Serve with crackers, raw veggies or as a spread on sandwiches.
Refrigerate for up to a week in an airtight container.
FEBRUARY 22, 2021
