Forktionary

Pimento

Capsicum annuum Vegetable / Spice (when dried/ground)

Pimento Vegetable / Spice (when dried/ground)

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable / Spice (when dried/ground)

The Forktionary Angle

"The word "pimento" is Spanish for pepper. Despite being a type of chili pepper, it has one of the lowest Scoville heat ratings, making it distinctly sweet."

Definition

A large, red, heart-shaped sweet chili pepper, mild in flavor, often preserved and used for stuffing olives or in condiments.

Form Most Commonly Sold Jarred, diced, or strips
Primary Commercial Use Stuffing green olives
Scoville Heat Units 0-500 SHU (very mild)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pimento are:

Sweet mild slightly fruity

Chef’s Secret

When using jarred pimentos, drain them thoroughly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute flavors in dishes like pimento cheese or spreads.

Best Substitutes

Roasted red bell pepper

Ratio 1:1

Jarred roasted red peppers

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Typically found jarred or canned. Check for good color and intact pieces. Fresh pimentos are rare outside specialty markets.

Culinary Pairings

Olives cheese (pimento cheese) mayonnaise ham deviled eggs salads sandwich spreads

Recipes Using Pimento

I Can T Believe It's Low Fat Creamy Potato Salad image 160
Dietary Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less Vegetables

I Can T Believe It's Low Fat Creamy Potato Salad

Indulge in creamy, dreamy potato salad without the guilt! This surprisingly low-fat recipe is bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light yet satisfying weeknight meal. You won't believe it's low-fat until you taste it!

See Complete Recipe
All Purpose Vegan Cheese Sauce image 117
Easy Low In Something Dietary 3 Steps Or Less

All Purpose Vegan Cheese Sauce

Craving creamy, cheesy goodness without the dairy? This versatile vegan cheese sauce is your answer! Made with a mild blend of cashews, nutritional yeast (used sparingly for those sensitive to its flavor), and simple spices, this recipe is incredibly easy to customize. Enjoy it as a simple side over steamed veggies or chips, or spice it up with your favorite additions like cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes, chili, or vegan taco meat. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a lighter take on our popular #356853, perfect for those new to vegan cooking or who prefer a less intense nutritional yeast flavor.

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