Are you ready to experience the ultimate lunchtime indulgence? We’re talking about the mouthwatering combination of grilled pimento cheese and ham, sandwiched between two slices of bread. But what makes this sandwich so irresistible? And how can you make it at home?
Join us as we delve into the world of this classic and cozy Southern-style sandwich. We’ll uncover the secrets to creating the perfect pimento cheese spread, show you how to make homemade pickles to accompany your sandwich, and provide tips and variations to elevate your grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich game.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the components of pimento cheese and its variations.
- Learn how to create the perfect pimento cheese spread for your sandwich.
- Master the art of making homemade pickles as a delicious side.
- Find out how to assemble and cook the grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich to perfection.
- Get creative with tips and variations to customize your sandwich.
What is Pimento Cheese?
Pimento cheese is a traditional Southern spread that has gained popularity across the United States. It is made from a simple combination of ingredients including orange cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and jarred or canned pimento peppers. The result is a creamy and tangy spread that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a versatile ingredient in various dishes. One popular way to enjoy pimento cheese is in a delicious homemade pimento cheese sandwich.
To make pimento cheese, start by finely grating orange cheddar cheese. You can also experiment with other types of cheese like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Combine the grated cheese with mayonnaise and gently fold in the pimento peppers, which have a mild and slightly sweet taste. The amount of mayo and pimento peppers can vary depending on personal preference, but a typical ratio is about 1 to 2 parts mayo to cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro tip: For added flavor, you can customize your pimento cheese by incorporating other ingredients such as cream cheese, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, grated onions, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or minced green olives. These additions can enhance the overall taste and provide unique variations to your homemade pimento cheese spread.
Homemade Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe
If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying lunch option, a homemade pimento cheese sandwich is the perfect choice. Here’s a simple recipe to help you create your own mouthwatering sandwich:
- Start by spreading a generous amount of homemade pimento cheese on two slices of your favorite bread.
- Layer sliced ham or any other protein of your choice onto one side of the sandwich.
- Add lettuce, tomato, or any other fresh ingredients you prefer for additional crunch and flavor.
- Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread, pimento cheese side down.
- Optional: Lightly butter the outside of the bread slices for a crispy finish.
Now your sandwich is ready to be grilled or toasted to perfection! Cook it on a skillet or in a panini press until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. The result is a heavenly combination of warm, gooey cheese, savory ham, and the perfect touch of tanginess from the pimentos.
Pro tip: Serve your homemade pimento cheese sandwich with a side of pickles or chips for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations of Pimento Cheese Ingredients
| Additions | Description |
| — | — |
| Cream cheese | Adds creaminess and tang |
| Hot sauce | Adds heat and complexity |
| Cayenne pepper | Enhances spiciness |
| Grated onions | Adds a sharp and aromatic flavor |
| Dry mustard | Brings a subtle tang and depth of taste |
| Worcestershire sauce | Adds a savory umami flavor |
| Minced green olives | Provides a briny and salty twist |
Creating your own homemade pimento cheese and using it to make a delicious sandwich is a great way to enjoy a classic Southern dish. Whether you prefer a simple version or want to experiment with different ingredients, pimento cheese is a versatile spread that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. So, gather your ingredients, make your own pimento cheese at home, and savor the incredible taste of a homemade pimento cheese sandwich.
The Perfect Pimento Cheese Spread
To create the perfect pimento cheese spread, start by finely grating extra-sharp orange cheddar cheese. For added flavor, substitute piquillo peppers for the traditional pimentos. These smaller red peppers have a sharper and sweeter taste.
Enhance the spread with melted mayonnaise, finely grated onions, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. The resulting spread will be creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor.
Personalize Your Spread
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of cheese. Sharp white cheddar, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist to your pimento spread. You can also add diced jalapenos or roasted red bell peppers for an extra kick of flavor.
The perfect pimento cheese spread is the key to creating the best sandwich for lunch. Its creaminess, tanginess, and distinctive flavors make it the ideal companion to the cheesy ham sandwich.
Spread the Love
This versatile spread is not limited to sandwiches. It can also be used as a dip for crackers or vegetables, or as a flavorful topping for burgers and baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra-sharp orange cheddar cheese | 8 oz |
| Piquillo peppers | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Finely grated onions | 1 tbsp |
| Dry mustard | 1/2 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Making Homemade Pickles
Homemade pickles are the perfect accompaniment to a grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich. These crunchy and tangy pickles add a refreshing element to the sandwich and elevate its flavor profile.
To make quick and flavorful pickles, start by slicing cucumbers and sprinkling them with salt. Let them sit for an hour to draw out the excess moisture. This step ensures that the pickles will be crisp and not watery.
We all know that the perfect pickle should have that satisfying crunch. By salting and draining the cucumbers, we’re setting them up for success.
After the hour is up, rinse the cucumbers thoroughly to remove the excess salt. Place them in a pot with a mixture of vinegar, sugar, garlic, and your choice of spices. Some popular options include dill, mustard seeds, and black peppercorns.
Cook the cucumbers and spice mixture until the cucumbers turn a dark green color, indicating they’ve absorbed all the flavors. This process infuses the pickles with a tangy and aromatic taste that complements the pimento cheese and ham perfectly.
Once cooked, transfer the pickles to a glass jar and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and create that signature pickle tang.
Here’s a simple recipe for making homemade pickles:
- Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dill (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
- Toss the sliced cucumbers with salt and let them sit for an hour. Rinse and drain thoroughly.
- In a pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, garlic, and spices. Bring to a boil.
- Add the cucumber slices to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, or until the cucumbers turn dark green.
- Transfer the pickles to a glass jar and let them cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate the pickles for at least an hour before serving.
These homemade pickles will not only enhance the taste of your grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich but also provide a satisfying crunch and tanginess that will leave you craving more.
Assembling the Sandwich
To create the ultimate sandwiched grilled pimento cheese ham and homemade pickles, follow these simple steps:
- Start by brushing one side of each slice of bread with melted butter.
- On the other side of the bread, spread a generous amount of the pimento cheese spread.
- Layer the ham slices on top of the cheese spread.
- Top the ham with your delicious homemade pickles.
- Press another slice of bread, butter side up, onto the pickles to complete the sandwich.
- Cook the sandwich on a skillet or griddle over medium heat until it turns a golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Let the sandwich rest for a few minutes before cutting it in half.
The result will be a crispy, gooey, and irresistible cheesy ham sandwich that will satisfy your taste buds.
Tips and Variations
Enhance your grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich experience with these tips and variations:
- Use a sturdy bread – Opt for a robust bread, such as Pullman, to create a more substantial sandwich that can hold all the delicious fillings.
- Experiment with different types of ham – Try using different varieties of ham, such as smoked or honey-glazed, to add unique flavors to your sandwich.
- Add sliced tomatoes or arugula – For a fresh and vibrant twist, layer your sandwich with sliced tomatoes or peppery arugula.
- Try grilling in an air fryer – If you’re looking for a quicker and easier cooking process, give grilling your sandwich in an air fryer a try. It’ll create a crispy exterior while melting the cheese to perfection.
- Serve with additional pickles or coleslaw – Complete your grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich meal by serving it with extra pickles or a side of tangy coleslaw.
Comparison of Different Ham Varieties
| Ham Variety | Taste | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked Ham | Rich and smoky | Ham that has been flavored and preserved by smoking over wood chips, adding a depth of flavor. |
| Honey-Glazed Ham | Sweet and savory | Ham that has been coated with honey and then roasted, resulting in a deliciously sticky and caramelized exterior. |
| Black Forest Ham | Slightly sweet | A German-style ham that is seasoned with herbs and spices, resulting in a distinctive mild flavor. |
Serving and Storage
Grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwiches are best served immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is crispy. The indulgent combination of melted cheese, savory ham, and tangy pimento peppers is at its best when enjoyed fresh.
If you find yourself with any leftover pimento cheese spread, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in a covered container. Simply bring the spread to room temperature before using it or serving.
As for the homemade pickles that perfectly complement the sandwich, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks in a covered container. This way, you can have a ready supply of the pickles to effortlessly elevate your sandwich whenever the craving strikes!
| Serving and Storage Guidelines | |
|---|---|
| Grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwiches | Best served immediately |
| Leftover pimento cheese spread | Store in the refrigerator for up to a week in a covered container |
| Homemade pickles | Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks in a covered container |
For future sandwich making adventures, keep these serving and storage guidelines in mind to ensure the best flavors and textures with each delightful bite.
Conclusion
Grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwiches are a taste of Southern comfort that will transport you to a world of deliciousness. With the right ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a homemade version that rivals any deli sandwich. The combination of tangy pimento cheese, savory ham, and homemade pickles is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more.
So why not treat yourself to this classic sandwich for your next lunch? Indulge in the gooey melted cheese, the smoky ham, and the zesty crunch of pickles. It’s the perfect sandwich to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face.
No matter where you are, you can enjoy the comfort of a grilled pimento cheese and ham sandwich. Take a break from your busy day, gather the ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of this Southern staple. Your taste buds will thank you!