I really have to learn not to work on Southern Delicacy posts when I’m hungry, because boy does that Coke in a bottle and pimento cheese sandwich look DIVINE!
For those who aren’t familiar with the deliciousness of pimento cheese, it’s a simple Southern staple typically made of sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos and some simple seasoning, such as salt and/or pepper. Some folks like to get fancy and sub in or add onions, cream cheese, garlic or Monterey jack cheese. Works for me!
Aunt Sissy Si’s recipe for pimento cheese sandwiches via Design*Sponge (photos by William Brinson), pimento cheese sandwiches (photo by Horace & Gertrude via Southern Weddings)
According to this fun article on NPR by Wright Bryan (talk about a Southern name!), “Pimento cheese is so ingrained in the lives of many Southerners that we don’t realize our passion for the stuff doesn’t exist outside the region.” He wrote that perhaps the most “national” exposure for pimento cheese was its yearly appearance as a popular sandwich choice at the Masters golf tournament in Augusta. I think those green-jacket-wearing boys have the right idea! The yummy pimento cheese sandwich is traditionally served on cheap white bread. From a quick fix for children playing on a hot summer’s day to the after-church potlucks, pimento cheese has been firmly rooted in everyday Southern life for years and years.
Cracker spoons with creamy pimento cheese and spicy roasted bell pepper pimento cheese, both from Southern Living
Of course, like most Southern favorites, pimento cheese can be dressed up or dressed down. We love these creative presentations for a wedding cocktail hour!
Tupelo Honey’s pimento cheese – image by Margaret Houston for Garden & Gun
And how about this, y’all? Really love pimento cheese? We were tickled pink by the fact that you can actually join a pimento cheese of the month club. Seriously! It’s through Asheville’s famed Tupelo Honey Cafe, so you know it’s going to be delicious. Find out more here! If you’re not ready for a yearlong commitment yet, try your hand at their personal recipe, available here.
[…] Sweet Sixteen. For my own part, I am sad to report that all my efforts didn’t earn my beloved pimento cheese a victory, as cornbread advanced to the next […]