Savory Cheese Spread - cocktail dip
Cocktail dip for crackers, its akin to pimento cheese... but it's so much better. Umami explosion! Serve with crackers around sunset with cold beverages and good company.
Ingredients
- - 1 lb extra sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- - 2 red mini sweet peppers
- - 2 yellow mini sweet peppers
- - 2 orange mini sweet peppers
- - 1/4 small onion very finely diced
- - 3 garlic cloves very finely minced
- - 1/2 cup mayonnaise plus 1 extra spoon if needed (Duke's preferred)
- - 1–2 tsp capers minced
- - 1 tbsp caper brine from the jar
- - 1 tbsp MSG
- - 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce plus a little extra to taste
- - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- - 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
- - Salt and black pepper to taste
- - Optional: squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Slice peppers in half and remove seeds. Place in a cast iron skillet, skin side down.
- Roast for 15 minutes until softened and slightly charred. Transfer to a wooden cutting board to cool for 3–5 minutes.
- Finely dice the roasted peppers into small squares.
- In a large bowl, combine diced peppers, minced onion, minced garlic, capers, caper brine, Worcestershire sauce, MSG, paprika, cayenne, parsley, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Stir in 1/2 cup mayonnaise (dukes?) until well mixed.
- Fold in grated cheddar cheese gradually until evenly combined. Taste and adjust with a bit more mayo or Worcestershire if needed.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with crackers, toasted bread, or use as a spread for sandwiches or burgers.
Notes
- The MSG gives a savory depth that amplifies the cheese and roasted peppers.
- The finely diced onion melts into the mix for subtle sweetness and texture.
- Keeps well in the fridge for a week. No, this isn't a "Don't Be Afraid of Deliciousness" clone... a nod, nonetheless. It is less pimento cheese and more savory spread.
- The finely diced onion melts into the mix for subtle sweetness and texture.
- Keeps well in the fridge for a week. No, this isn't a "Don't Be Afraid of Deliciousness" clone... a nod, nonetheless. It is less pimento cheese and more savory spread.
