The “pâté of the South” is how some refer to pimento cheese. But what some might not know is that while this delicacy is synonymous with the South, its origins are in New York.

According to food historians, it started when New York farmers began making cream cheese in the 1870s. During the same period, the U.S. started importing pimientos, sweet red peppers from Spain.

The two ingredients were combined, and the second ‘i’ in pimento was eventually dropped from the name of the cheese mixture. While the spread originally was sold as a prepared food, home cooks started creating their own versions after World War II. Expensive to import, pimientos were grown for canning in Georgia, and the popular cheese was fine-tuned in Southern kitchens.

The variations and applications of pimento cheese are limitless. Just about any type of cheese can be used, though a sharp cheddar is traditional.

A simple spread, pimento cheese can be dressed up or dressed down. It can be enjoyed with crackers or added to grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, toasted bagels, baked potatoes and even deviled eggs.

Pimento cheese

8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded, extra-sharp cheddar cheese
⅓ cup mayonnaise
1 pinch of garlic powder
4-ounce jar diced pimientos, drained

In the bowl of an electric mixer stand mixer, beat cream cheese on medium speed until creamy. Add shredded cheese, and continue beating until light and fluffy. Mix in the mayonnaise and garlic powder. Stir in the pimientos, cover, and chill overnight.

Source: Mary Jane Jones, Tazewell County, in Cooking Virginia Style with Farm Bureau Women


Spicy pimento cheese spread

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
¾ cup Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons diced jalapeno peppers
4-ounce jar diced pimientos, drained
1 tablespoon sour cream
dash of hot sauce, optional

Either in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, or in a bowl with spatula, combine all ingredients and mix until well blended. Serve chilled with your favorite crackers or tortilla chips.

Source: Recipe adapted from Southland Dairy Farmers