Discover the Delight of North Carolina’s Pimento Cheese: Dip or Spread, and Join the Festivities!

CARY, N.C. – Let’s talk about pimento cheese! Also known as “Southern caviar,” this beloved spread has deep roots in the Southern states. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a symbol of culture and community.

In Cary, North Carolina, pimento cheese has become a thriving business. It’s home to the nation’s first Pimento Cheese Festival, now in its seventh year. This celebration showcases local talents and delicious food that brings people together.

Enter Danny Barnes, a passionate pimento cheese maker from Fayetteville. After years working at Food Lion, he took a brave leap to follow his dream. He quit his job and launched his own brand: Danny B’s Pimento Cheese. Danny turned a casual recipe he picked up from a customer into a popular product. “Everybody that tried it said, ‘You could sell this,’” he recalls. Now, Danny B’s Pimento Cheese is on the shelves in about 250 Food Lion stores.

Barnes didn’t see himself in the cheese business initially. His journey began in 2017 when he learned how to make it during a conversation with a customer. “I’d never really been a fan until I made my own version,” he admits. Now, he describes pimento cheese as “nectar from the gods.”

The Pimento Cheese Festival is not just about the spread. It features 35 food trucks, many of which offer unique pimento cheese dishes. Think pimento cheese brownies and even pimento cheese beer! This diversity in dishes speaks to the creativity of chefs and fans alike.

Many people might still wonder: what exactly is pimento cheese? It’s a creamy blend of cheddar cheese, mayo, and diced pimentos. Some love it spicy, while others prefer the classic version. Eileen Lader is one fan who enjoys every variety, saying, “I love it. I like spicy, regular, and all kinds.” Joy Ennis likes to add her own twist: “Cheese, all kinds of cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and then any sort of add-ins you want.”

This classic Southern delicacy is continuously being reinvented. Social media reflects its growing popularity. Posts featuring pimento cheese variations frequently go viral, with food enthusiasts sharing their favorite twists and recipes.

According to recent trends, pimento cheese is making its way into gourmet dishes and upscale restaurants, proving that it can fit into any culinary experience. A survey from the Southern Foodways Alliance shows that pimento cheese remains a favorite among Southern food lovers, with around 70% saying they enjoy it regularly.

As the pimento cheese trend continues, it offers a taste of history while encouraging innovation. It’s a reminder that even beloved classics can evolve while keeping their roots. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, pimento cheese remains an essential part of Southern cuisine and culture.

For those interested in exploring this delicious spread, the Pimento Cheese Festival in Cary is certainly a must-visit. Embrace the creativity, the flavors, and the community spirit that pimento cheese uniquely represents.

To learn more about the history and recipes of pimento cheese, check out the Southern Foodways Alliance.



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