A specialty of the American South, pimento cheese is affectionately known as Carolina Caviar or Southern Paté. It is made by combining shredded cheddar cheese with minced pimentos, mayonnaise, a touch of cayenne and other seasonings, although recipes often vary among Southern cooks. For best results, use a high-quality, extra-sharp cheddar.
Recipe Courtesy of “Williams-Sonoma Kitchen”
Ingredients
- 4 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 jar (4 ounces) pimentos, drained and finely minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions, white and green portions
- 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinch of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 1/4 pound ground beef
- 12 Parker House rools, each 2 inches wide, warmed
- Lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes or other favorite burger accompaniments
Preparation
- 1 In a bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, pimentos, green onions, 1/2 tsp. of the salt, the cayenne and black pepper. Stir in the mayonnaise until incorporated. Refrigerate the pimento cheese until ready to use.
- 2 In a bowl, combine the ground beef and the remaining 1 tsp. salt. Divide into 12 equal portions and gently form into balls. Using a mini burger press, shape the balls into patties.
- 3 Heat a nonstick grill pan over medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook the burgers for 1 to 2 minutes, then flip them. Spoon the pimento cheese onto the burgers and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, or until done to your liking.
- 4 Serve the burgers immediately on Parker House rolls with your favorite burger accompaniments.
