"Plains Special" Cheese Ring(By Mrs. Jimmy Carter)
A delightful cheese ring with a savory blend of grated cheese, onion, and chopped nuts, seasoned with black pepper and cayenne. Perfect as an appetizer or spread, it offers a creamy, nutty flavor with a hint of spice, making it a versatile dish for entertaining or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the grated cheese, grated onion, chopped nuts, black pepper, and cayenne pepper together.
- Mold the mixture with hands into the desired shape.
- Place in the refrigerator until chilled.
- When ready to serve, fill the center with strawberry preserves.
- Alternatively, serve as a cheese spread without preserves.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a sharp cheese such as cheddar or a blend for added depth. You can substitute the chopped nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin if nut allergies are a concern. For a spicier kick, consider adding a bit more cayenne or using pepper jack cheese. Grating the onion finely helps to blend the flavors better, making your cheese ring more cohesive.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese ring is perfect for entertaining and pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh veggies, or a selection of breads. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or as part of a cheese platter featuring fruits and nuts. You can also try it with a side of Noodle Pudding for a delightful contrast of textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese ring in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you've filled it with preserves, it’s best to consume it within 2 days. To serve leftovers, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes for optimal flavor before enjoying as a spread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Plains Special" Cheese Ring(By Mrs. Jimmy Carter) contains roughly 598 calories, with 19g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (263% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 38g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese ring in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day ahead and shape it into a ring before refrigerating. Just fill the center with strawberry preserves right before serving to keep it fresh. This makes it a great option for party planning, allowing you to focus on other dishes like Poor Man'S Pound Cake.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Aged cheddar is a popular choice due to its strong flavor, but you can also experiment with Gouda or Swiss for a different taste. Combining cheeses can add complexity; just ensure they melt well together. If you prefer vegetarian recipes, ensure your cheese is rennet-free.
Can I add other ingredients to the cheese ring?
Absolutely! You can mix in herbs like chives or dill for a fresh flavor, or even some diced jalapeños for heat. Just be mindful of the moisture content so that the mixture holds together. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences or the theme of your gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).