Tilly's Pimento Cheese

Pimento Cheese is classically southern. In fact it's been called "the pate of the South" or even "the caviar of the South". Aaaaand I'm a girl from Georgia who doesn't like it. I have never liked it and had pretty much given up on it until I tried Tilly's. Tilly is my mother in law and her real name is Phyllis, but she became "Tilly" once she had grandkids. She picked this recipe up from a lady at a church function or shower many years ago and has been using it ever since. She brings it to several family get togethers and it's always devoured. 

This is a really simple recipe, but it's the one pimento cheese that I always like. It's great on sandwiches, celery sticks, crackers or any other vehicle for dipping. It's even great on biscuits (a little something I'm working on for later). As with most dishes, the better the ingredients, the better the overall product so use the best cheese possible. As far as what you can get at regular grocery stores, I love the cracker barrel brand. If you're looking for a quick and easy dish to bring to your next get together, this is the one for you. 

INGREDIENTS

roughly 1 cup Duke's mayonnaise 
16 oz extra sharp cheddar
4 oz jar of pimentos
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp kosher salt


INSTRUCTIONS

1) Grate cheese and add to mixing bowl.

2) Add pimentos to bowl. The pimentos can be diced if you would like them smaller or left in their larger pieces. 

***I drained about half of the pimento liquid off and added in the rest to the bowl.

3) Add mayo and stir to combine.

4) Season with cayenne and salt. Taste and determine if it needs more seasoning. 

***The amount of cayenne is up to you. The measurement listed is my preference. If you're worried about the amount of heat, add the cayenne in small amounts and taste to determine. 

5) Cover and refrigerate until serving. 

***Can be made a few days ahead of time.