Southern Sundays: What is a Cheese Straw?

I recently took a course entitled, "Southern Weddings."  The lecturer mentioned cheese straws repeatedly, "You CANNOT have a Southern wedding without cheese straws!"  My question, "What is a Cheese Straw?"

In my mind, they resembled an actual straw like the Pepperidge Farm Pirouette cookie.  As I did my own research, I found that they are not really a straw, yet a cheese cracker that is typically long and narrow.  Their taste, similar to that of a Goldfish or Cheez-It cracker.

These cheesy crackers are served during the cocktail hour to go right along with your favorite libation.  Not having cheese straws at your wedding is comparable to not kissing the bride.  Putting it simply, it is tradition.  I get it now!

If you are planning a Southern themed wedding here in California, do not forget the the addition of cheese straws to make your event truly Southern.  You can also create welcome bags for your guests with a Southern flair.

Here's a recipe from my Southern go-to lady, Paula Deen:

Cheese Straws

Cayenne pepper gives these traditional snacks a real kick.

Servings: 5 dozen
Prep Time: 8 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients Add to grocery list

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups self-rising flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cup 1/2 lb shredded sharp Cheddar, at room temperature
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Sift together the flour, cayenne, and salt and set aside. Using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and cheese until blended. Add the flour mixture slowly, beating at low speed, then continue to beat for 5 minutes, until very creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl several times.

Using a cookie press with a star tip, make 3-inch-long cheese straws, leaving at least 1/2 inch between each on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to racks to cool.

If you are not up for baking, these companies will ship them straight to you front door:  A Taste of the South or Southern Straws.

See y'all next Sunday!

Photo Credit:  Southern Weddings