Benedictine Spread: A Kentucky Classic

The memory is as vivid as the taste itself. I was a young culinary student, visiting a quaint tea room in Louisville, Kentucky. The air was thick with the scent of blooming roses and freshly brewed tea. On delicate china, amongst an array of finger sandwiches, was a pale green spread. One bite and I was hooked. The cool, refreshing combination of cucumber and cream cheese was unlike anything I had ever tasted. It was Benedictine, and it was a taste of Southern hospitality I would never forget. This recipe brings that memory, and that uniquely refreshing flavor, right back to my kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 (depending on serving size)
• Yield: About 2 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be easily adapted to vegan)

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons cucumber juice (see instructions below)
• 1 tablespoon onion juice (see instructions below)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (a few grains)
• 2 drops green food coloring (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Grater
• Clean dish towel or cheesecloth
• Small mixing bowls
• Fork
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. First, prepare the cucumber juice. Peel and grate a cucumber using a box grater.
2. Wrap the grated cucumber in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth.
3. Squeeze the towel tightly to extract the cucumber juice into a small bowl. You will need 3 tablespoons. Discard the cucumber pulp.
4. Next, prepare the onion juice in a similar fashion. Grate a small piece of onion.
5. Wrap the grated onion in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth.
6. Squeeze the towel tightly to extract the onion juice into a separate small bowl. You will need 1 tablespoon. Discard the onion pulp.
7. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cucumber juice, and onion juice.
8. Add the salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember, you only want a few grains of cayenne to add a subtle warmth, not significant heat.
9. If desired, add 2 drops of green food coloring to achieve the traditional pale green hue. This is optional and can be omitted for a more natural look.
10. Mix all ingredients together with a fork until well blended and smooth. Avoid using a blender, as this can make the spread too runny.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This will prevent lumps and create a smooth, easily spreadable consistency. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals, checking and stirring each time, until softened. Be careful not to melt it.
• Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze: Getting the maximum amount of juice from the cucumber and onion is crucial. Don’t be afraid to really squeeze the grated pulp in the towel. You can also use a potato ricer to extract the juice more efficiently.
• Adjust the Heat: The pinch of cayenne adds a subtle warmth that balances the coolness of the cucumber. Feel free to adjust the amount to your preference, but start small – you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Benedictine spread can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving. The flavors will meld together beautifully over time.
• Vegan Variation: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by using your favorite plant-based cream cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Benedictine spread is traditionally served on thinly sliced white bread, crusts removed, as delicate finger sandwiches. It’s a staple at tea parties, bridal showers, and luncheons. You can also use it as a dip for vegetables like celery and carrots, or as a spread for crackers.

To store, keep Benedictine spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days. Due to the fresh ingredients, it’s not recommended to freeze it, as the texture may change upon thawing. It is best enjoyed cold, directly from the refrigerator. Do not leave the spread at room temperature for more than two hours, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 2 tbsp)	% Daily Value
Calories	80 kcal	4%
Total Fat	7g	11%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	20mg	7%
Sodium	120mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	2g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	1g	N/A
Protein	2g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Benedictine: For a spicier kick, add a finely minced jalapeño pepper (seeds removed) to the mixture.
• Herbed Benedictine: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for added flavor and aroma.
• Vegan Benedictine: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
• Gluten-Free Benedictine: Serve with gluten-free bread or crackers.
• Lighter Benedictine: Use a reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
• Use Different Vegetables: Some variations call for a small amount of grated green bell pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Experiment!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a blender to make the spread?
A: While you can use a blender or food processor, it’s not recommended. These appliances can easily over-process the ingredients, resulting in a runny spread. Mixing by hand with a fork provides the best texture.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making Benedictine spread a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld together even more. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What is the best way to serve Benedictine spread?
A: Traditionally, it’s served on thinly sliced white bread as finger sandwiches, but it also makes a delicious dip for vegetables or a spread for crackers.

Q: Can I freeze Benedictine spread?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and cucumber may change upon thawing, resulting in a watery or grainy consistency.

Q: I don’t have food coloring. Is it necessary?
A: No, the green food coloring is purely for aesthetic purposes. You can omit it altogether, and the spread will still taste delicious. The natural color will be a pale, creamy white.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the secret to crafting a perfect Benedictine spread, I encourage you to try it! Whether you’re hosting a tea party, preparing a light lunch, or simply craving a taste of Southern charm, this recipe is sure to delight. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. And most importantly, share your creations with friends and family – Benedictine spread is best enjoyed in good company. Enjoy!