“Southern hospitality is a magical thing, and of course food plays an essential role in its power. Entertaining is in our DNA, but sometimes when the doorbell rings and you’re not quite ready to receive company, even a Southern social butterfly can get that sinking oh-no feeling. And when you are expecting someone to stop by to say hello, the anticipation can occasionally be an anxious rather than excited feeling. Yet with a little pimento cheese and a glass of iced tea (or something stronger, when necessary), it’s amazing how quickly any negative feelings fade into the background. There’s simply something sweet and human about fixing a drink for someone or spreading a little cheese on a cracker and passing it to another person. It creates an instant connection, a heart token, a peace offering, and a sense of welcome. It’s not a fix all of the world’s problems, but for me it’s a starting point of love.” ~from Gumbo Love, Chapter 2, ‘Starters and Snacks’
1 (4-ounce jar pimentos, drained and chopped)
1 pound extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
2 tablespoons grated sweet onion
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup mayonnaise
3 or 4 dashes of hot sauce
2. In a large bowl, combine the pimentos, cheese, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Fold the beer and mayonnaise into the cheese mixture. Add the hot sauce and stir well. The mixture should be a little runny.
