Pimento Cheese

: All You Need To Know About The Spicy-Savoury Cheese Spread

Quick Summary

Pimento cheese is a smooth, tangy spread made with cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimento peppers, and is generally associated with southern cuisine in the United States. Because of its creamy texture, pimento cheese naturally complements a grilled cheese sandwich, especially for special events like National Grilled Cheese Day. Though it originated in the northern United States, pimento cheese has become ingrained in American culture in the South. 

Deep Dive

Pimento cheese exists at the crossroads of the history of processed foods through industrial manufacturing and the evolution of regional culinary identity through local adaptation. Historically, the earliest examples of pimento cheese were simply a combination of cream cheese and imported Spanish pimientos/peppers, reflecting the growing trend toward processed foods in the late 19th century.

As producers began growing pimentos in the South, the input costs to manufacture the product decreased. They changed the recipe from simple cream cheese and pimento to a mixture of shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It changed the recipe from a totally spreadable to a chunky texture. In addition, this change solidified pimento cheese as part of Southern food identity. 

The versatility of pimento cheese has kept it relevant in today's blue plate special restaurants. Used cold on crackers or as a warm, melted ingredient in a grilled cheese sandwich, pimento cheese's versatility keeps it dominant in home and commercial kitchens alike.