Lulu Paste: A Southern Classic Rediscovered

The first time I heard about Lulu Paste, I was sifting through my grandmother’s recipe box, a treasure trove of faded index cards and handwritten notes stained with memories. I remember pulling out a card, its edges softened with age, and seeing the words “Lulu Paste” scrawled in her elegant cursive. Intrigued, I asked her about it. She smiled, a faraway look in her eyes, and told me it was a beloved Richmond, Virginia, staple, a creamy, tangy spread that always made an appearance at family gatherings. While she confessed she hadn’t made it in years, the way she described the unique blend of sharp cheddar, pimentos, and a hint of sweetness transported me to a simpler time, filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of Southern hospitality. It was a story I vowed to recreate in my own kitchen someday.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yields: 1 jar
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion
• 1 (4 ounce) can pimientos
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 pinch dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (optional)
• 1 cup mayonnaise

Equipment Needed

• Food processor (optional, see instructions)
• Screw-topped jar or airtight container
• Pampered Chef chopper (optional, see instructions)

Instructions

1. If using a food processor, process the cheese, onion, and pimientos until finely ground. This will create a very smooth paste.
2. Alternatively, for a chunkier texture and easier cleanup (as I prefer!), you can finely shred the cheese using a grater. Then, finely chop the onion and pimientos using a knife or a Pampered Chef chopper until they are in very small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cheese, onion, and pimientos.
4. Add the ketchup, dry mustard, and chili sauce (if using) to the bowl.
5. Add the mayonnaise and stir all ingredients together thoroughly until well mixed and evenly combined. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
6. Transfer the Lulu Paste to a screw-topped jar or an airtight container.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This is a crucial step for the best flavor!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Choice Matters: While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A blend of sharp and mild cheddar can offer a more balanced flavor profile. You could even incorporate a touch of smoked gouda for a smoky depth.
• Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet spread, reduce the amount of ketchup slightly. Conversely, a touch more ketchup will enhance the sweetness.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Lulu Paste is a fantastic make-ahead dish. It can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually intensify over time!
• Food Processor vs. Hand-Chopped: The food processor creates a super smooth, almost spreadable consistency. Hand-chopping provides a chunkier, more textured paste. Both are delicious – it’s all about personal preference!
• Onion Taming: If you find the raw onion too pungent, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the recipe. This will mellow its sharpness. Make sure to drain and pat dry thoroughly.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Lulu Paste is incredibly versatile. It’s traditionally served on crackers as a simple appetizer, but its uses extend far beyond that. Consider spreading it on celery sticks for a lighter, refreshing snack, or using it as a flavorful sandwich spread. It’s also delicious as a dip for vegetables or as a topping for grilled burgers.

Store leftover Lulu Paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days. While it’s best served cold, it can be brought to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. I do not recommend freezing Lulu Paste, as the texture of the mayonnaise can change upon thawing, resulting in a less desirable consistency.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (Approx. 2 tbsp)	% Daily Value
Calories	245 kcal	12%
Total Fat	20 g	31%
Saturated Fat	12 g	60%
Cholesterol	50 mg	17%
Sodium	500 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	7 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5 g	2%
Sugars	5 g	–
Protein	9 g	18%

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: While the core of Lulu Paste is dairy-based, you could experiment with a plant-based cheddar alternative and vegan mayonnaise. The taste will be different, but it offers a dairy-free option.
• Spicy Lulu: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a brighter, more aromatic flavor. Finely chop the herbs and add them to the mixture before refrigerating.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped sweet pickles or pickle relish for a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky flavor that complements the cheddar beautifully.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese. However, freshly grated cheese melts and blends more smoothly, resulting in a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can slightly affect the overall consistency.

Q: How long does Lulu Paste last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, Lulu Paste will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

Q: Can I freeze Lulu Paste?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise can separate upon thawing, resulting in a less desirable texture.

Q: Is chili sauce essential to the recipe?
A: No, chili sauce is optional. It adds a subtle sweetness and tang, but the recipe is still delicious without it. You can omit it or substitute it with another condiment, such as a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Q: Can I adjust the amount of mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker paste, use less mayonnaise. For a creamier spread, add a bit more.

Final Thoughts

Lulu Paste is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of Southern history, a connection to generations past. Its simplicity belies its incredible flavor, a harmonious blend of sharp cheddar, tangy ketchup, and creamy mayonnaise that will tantalize your taste buds. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Lulu Paste for yourself. Share it with friends and family, and perhaps create new memories around this classic Southern spread. Serve it with crisp crackers and a glass of sweet tea for the ultimate Southern experience. Let me know what you think!