Pimento Cheese

The simplest, most delicious southern spread.

Yields 8 servings

Ingredients

8oz sharp cheddar cheese

2 oz pimentos

⅓ cup mayonaise

Tabasco

Texas Pete

Chili powder

Instructions

1. Grate 8oz cheddar cheese on the large side of a box grater on a flat surface. Transfer the cheese to a medium bowl.

   Do not use pre-grated cheese. The additives in bags of grated cheese impact the texture and the flavor of the pimento cheese—I promise you it is not worth it—I have tried.

2. Place 2 oz. pickled pimentos on a paper towel and gently squeeze out the excess liquid. Empty the dried-out pimentos onto a cutting board, finely chop, and add to the cheese.

3. Measure out ⅓ cup of Mayonnaise and add to the cheese. 

4. Add 7-10 dashes of Texas Pete, 10-12 dashes of Tabasco, and a generous sprinkling of chili powder.

5. Stir to combine and taste. If you want more heat, add more chili powder and Texas Pete. If you want more flavor, add more Tabasco.

6. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. The mayo will have thickened and the flavor more robust. 

7. Serve with crackers, on a sandwich, or on a burger.

Enjoy!