The Pimento Cheese Diaries
For those who know my background, know that I grew up living overseas in Southeast Asia. There I developed a deep love for all kinds of crazy foods like Khao Pad Gai, Ma Po Tofu and Tom Yum Goong. They are still among my favorite comfort foods but nothing can compare with my unwavering love for a southern classic – Pimento Cheese.
It all began long before we ever moved oversees at my grandparents house in Kansas City. I spent a lot of time there as a kid and each time the car pulled up in the driveway on St. Andrews Drive I couldn't wait to climb out, run up the pebbly front steps and through the huge front door right to (I should say to the loving arms of my meme and papa which I did do) but the refrigerator was my main target. After a hug from their beloved Sarah-bell it was off to the kitchen because that is where my true love awaited my arrival. I would swing open the fridge door and go on a hunt for that small tub of orange, creamy goodness. Once located along with some fluffy white sandwich bread it was off to make the world’s perfect snack. I would spread a little too much on one piece of bread, gently fold it over on itself but before taking that first glorious bite I would lick the knife of course.
Over the years anytime I have seen it in on a menu, it is without question going to be ordered. I have been lucky as of late with the resurgence of classic, comfort, southern influences on cuisine because it seems to be popping up everywhere. On a recent trip to Atlanta and Savannah I enjoyed it just about every day. My favorite was the Pimento Cheese and Bacon Omelet at West Egg Cafe. It was the perfect remedy after a night that concluded at that Claremont Lounge (if you know what that is then you know why I needed it). I also had the Pimento Cheese & Bacon Marmalade jar at Empire State South which was divine and a truly delectable sandwich at The Gryphon in Savannah.
Back home in Chicago, a new favorite that you must try came from Parson’s where they have a great Pimento Cheese toast that is topped with a perfect pickled companion. More to come on our visit to this new neighborhood joint – it is worthy of its own page of love.
Next up I will be making my own – maybe tonight, I have an insane craving.