At what point did someone decide it would be acceptable to insult our mothers and grandmothers recipes by peddling at supermarkets a soulless, highly processed “food product” and call it pimento cheese? The Southern classic deserves better.

Redeeming the comfort food one grocery store at a time is Pawleys Island Palmetto Cheese. What started as a simple appetizer served at a beachside bed and breakfast, has turned into a cult favorite that is spreading like wildfire across the South.

Brian and Sassy Henry moved to Pawleys Island, SC in 2002 and took over the Sea View Inn. Originally built in 1937, the 20-room inn is a throwback in time and an escape from the world with no televisions or clock radios in the rooms. Part of the experience for their guests has included a low country shrimp boil, but it was their pre-meal pimento cheese that people began to clamor over.

Sassy’s recipe, developed over tailgate parties when the couple lived in Atlanta, was enhanced by the soul and secret spices of Vertrella Brown, the cook at the inn whose image now graces the brand’s label. Always made with real sharp cheddar cheese and properly grated, it’s distinguished by its spicy flavor and homemade quality.

Once they made their addicting concoction available in the town’s market, locals are tourists couldn’t get enough. Today, Palmetto Cheese is available across the Southeast in their original and jalapeno versions. Check their website to see where it’s sold. If it hasn’t reached your area yet, it can be purchased online.

This entry was posted on Monday, September 12th, 2011 at 8:25 am and is filed under Food.