“A pimiento cheese sandwich is a true Southern staple,” Trisha says. This simple yet incredibly delicious creation holds a special place in Southern cuisine. The combination of pimiento cheese, with its rich and tangy flavor, and a slice of summer - ripe tomato is a match made in heaven.
Let's start by understanding the key ingredient - pimiento cheese. Pimiento cheese is a spread that has been a Southern classic for generations. It typically consists of sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimientos, and a blend of spices. The cheddar cheese provides a sharp and creamy base, while the pimientos add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor. The mayonnaise binds all the ingredients together, creating a smooth and spreadable consistency.
To make the perfect pimiento cheese, start with high - quality sharp cheddar cheese. Grate it fresh for the best flavor. You can use a mix of different cheddar cheeses, such as white and yellow, to add complexity. Next, drain the pimientos well. You can chop them finely to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the cheese. Add a generous amount of mayonnaise, but be careful not to overdo it. You want the spread to be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable.
Now, let's talk about the summer tomato. There's nothing quite like a juicy, sun - ripened tomato in the summertime. The sweetness and acidity of the tomato complement the richness of the pimiento cheese perfectly. When choosing a tomato for this appetizer, look for ones that are firm but not too hard, with a bright color and a fresh smell. Slicing the tomato thinly ensures that it doesn't overpower the other flavors in the appetizer.
For the biscuit, you can either make your own from scratch or use store - bought ones. Homemade biscuits have a wonderful, buttery flavor and a light, flaky texture. To make biscuits, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add milk and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently, roll it out, and cut it into rounds. Bake the biscuits until they are golden brown on top.
Once you have all your components ready, it's time to assemble the appetizer. Take a warm biscuit and split it in half. Generously slather the pimiento cheese on both halves of the biscuit. Place a slice of summer tomato on one half of the biscuit. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for an extra burst of flavor. Then, top it with the other half of the biscuit.
This pimiento cheese and tomato biscuit appetizer is not only delicious but also very versatile. You can serve it at a casual backyard barbecue, a fancy dinner party, or even as a quick snack on a lazy afternoon. It's a great way to introduce people to the flavors of the South. You can also experiment with different variations. For example, you can add a slice of bacon for a salty crunch, or a dollop of spicy aioli for an extra kick.
In conclusion, the pimiento cheese and tomato biscuit appetizer is a true Southern gem. It combines the best of Southern flavors - the rich pimiento cheese, the juicy summer tomato, and the buttery biscuit. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this appetizer is easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and delicious appetizer, give this Southern classic a try.