Benne Seed Wafers Pair Well With Everything

"Above all, though, Twitty conveys just how much Southerners are "dynamic eaters, cooks, and entertainers" - something that naturally comes out during the holidays. "The variety of offerings matters," Twitty says of his ideal gathering. "We Southerners are used to the 'groaning table,' filled with seasonal and family favorites." For a holiday spread in particular, "I like a lot of flavors. I also like things that match the seasons and a rich range of color is essential: It shouldn't look boring or monochromatic.""

"Benne seeds, a variant of sesame seeds native to West Africa brought to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade, bring a light nuttiness to their namesake cracker, which Twitty says pairs best on a cheese plate along with pimento cheese, shrimp paste, and relish (there's a recipe for that in the book as well, featuring pickled watermelon rinds and chow chow)."

The Southern table blends lived memory, myth, and diverse culinary influences shaped by colonization, migration, and abundant regional ingredients. Holiday gatherings prioritize variety, seasonal ingredients, and colorful displays, often presenting a 'groaning table' packed with family favorites. Benne seeds, a West African sesame variant brought to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade, provide a light nuttiness in benne seed wafers that complements sweet, spicy, and cheesy elements. Benne seed wafers pair particularly well with pimento cheese, shrimp paste, and relishes, and fit into cookie swaps or holiday snack spreads. Benne seeds are widely sold by online retailers when local availability is limited.

Read at Eater