How Georgia's Official State Sandwich Became A Staple Of Masters Golf Tournaments

The Masters Golf Tournament, held annually in Augusta, Georgia, has become synonymous with tradition and Southern hospitality. One of the unique aspects of this prestigious event is its association with Georgia’s official state sandwich, the pimento cheese sandwich. This humble yet flavorful creation has become a culinary staple at the tournament, delighting both attendees and players alike. The pimento cheese sandwich's journey to becoming a Masters icon began with its deep roots in Southern cuisine. Made from a simple mixture of sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos, this spread has long been cherished in Georgia as a comfort food. Its popularity at the Masters can be traced back to the tournament's commitment to showcasing local flavors and providing an authentic Southern experience. Over the years, the pimento cheese sandwich has become emblematic of the Masters, offering a taste of Southern tradition at an affordable price, which is a rarity at major sporting events. The sandwich's presence at the tournament reflects a blend of nostalgia and practicality, serving as a symbol of the Masters’ dedication to preserving its cultural heritage while creating memorable experiences for golf enthusiasts. As the tournament continues to draw international attention, the pimento cheese sandwich remains a beloved and enduring part of its legacy.
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How the Masters pimento cheese sandwiches have changed

When WifeSaver and its owner, Ted Godfrey, took over the food service at the Masters, Nick Rangos chose not to share his pimento cheese sandwich recipe with the new operator. Godfrey spent months attempting to replicate the flavor that Masters attendees had come to love. In a 2013 interview with ESPN, he mentioned that it took time to identify the right cheese, as the type Rangos had used was "distinct" and "more orange than most cheeses."

Eventually, the golf club's concessions committee announced that Godfrey had successfully recreated the recipe. However, the secret was lost once again when WifeSaver was dismissed from the Masters in 2012, following Augusta National Golf Club chairman Billy Payne's concerns about food safety with outside vendors. Godfrey, like Rangos before him, opted not to disclose his pimento cheese sandwich recipe.

Attendees noticed a change at the 2013 Masters, with ESPN reporting that the sandwiches had a spicier flavor and were occasionally soggier, possibly due to an increase in mayonnaise. Although the recipe has evolved over the years, pimento cheese sandwiches remain a staple at the Masters, and no visit to the tournament is complete without trying one.

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