87 lines
3.5 KiB
Markdown
87 lines
3.5 KiB
Markdown
# Easy Southern-Style Pimento Cheese Recipe
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This approachable recipe yields a creamy, flavorful pimento cheese that's perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip. It's simple to make and delivers authentic Southern flavor.
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## Ingredients
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- 8 oz (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
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- 4 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
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- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (Duke's recommended, if available)
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- 1/4 cup diced pimentos, drained
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- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
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- 1/4 tsp onion powder
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- 1/8 tsp salt (or to taste)
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- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
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- Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce
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## Instructions
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1. **Prep the cheese:** Grate the cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater. Set aside.
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2. **Mix the base:** In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy. (Tip: If you forgot to soften the cream cheese, microwave it for 10-15 seconds.)
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3. **Add flavors:** Stir in the drained pimentos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
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4. **Combine:** Gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
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5. **Taste and adjust:** Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add smoked paprika or hot sauce if desired.
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6. **Chill:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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## Serving Ideas
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- Spread on white bread for a classic pimento cheese sandwich
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- Use as a dip for celery sticks, carrots, or crackers
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- Dollop onto burgers for a Southern twist
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- Spread on toasted baguette slices for an easy appetizer
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## Storage
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Enjoy your homemade pimento cheese!
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---
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### **Pimento Cheese Recipe**
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#### **Ingredients:**
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- **8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese**, grated
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- **4 oz. cream cheese**, softened
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- **1/2 cup mayonnaise** (preferably Duke’s for a more authentic flavor)
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- **1/4 cup pimentos**, drained and finely chopped
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- **1 tsp Dijon mustard** (optional, for a slight tang)
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- **1/4 tsp garlic powder**
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- **1/4 tsp onion powder**
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- **1/4 tsp smoked paprika** (optional, for a smoky flavor)
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- **Salt and pepper** to taste
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- **Dash of hot sauce** (optional, for a bit of heat)
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#### **Instructions:**
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1. **Grate the Cheese:**
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- Start by grating the sharp cheddar cheese. Freshly grated cheese is ideal because it has a better texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
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2. **Mix the Base:**
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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3. **Add the Pimentos:**
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- Gently fold in the chopped pimentos, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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4. **Season the Spread:**
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- Add the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
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5. **Taste and Adjust:**
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- Taste the pimento cheese and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce.
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6. **Chill:**
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- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
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#### **Serving Suggestions:**
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- Use as a spread for sandwiches or crackers.
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- Serve as a dip with fresh vegetables.
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- Spread on toasted bread for a warm, melty version.
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### **Storage:**
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- Store the pimento cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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This recipe provides a creamy, flavorful pimento cheese that's versatile enough for sandwiches, snacks, or appetizers. |