In the midst of a crisis, having access to nutritious and filling food can be a matter of survival. For centuries, colonists and homesteaders have relied on simple, hearty recipes that make use of available ingredients and require minimal equipment. These traditional dishes not only sustained people through times of scarcity, but also brought communities together around the table.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and practical recipes from the colonial era that are perfect for survival situations or everyday meals. From comforting cornmeal mush with molasses to flavorful wild game jerky, these recipes make use of common ingredients like beans, grains, and root vegetables. Whether you’re preparing for a worst-case scenario or simply looking to simplify your cooking routine, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Cornmeal Mush with Molasses
A traditional breakfast dish, this recipe combines the warmth of cornmeal mush with the rich flavor of molasses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and salt until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until the mush thickens.
4. Stir in the molasses and butter or margarine until fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a pat of butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Salt Pork and Bean Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the richness of salt pork with the simplicity of canned beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salt pork, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the salt pork, beans, tomatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hardtack Biscuits with Dried Fruit
These classic biscuits are a staple of traditional American cuisine, perfect for snacking or serving alongside hearty meals. With the added sweetness and chewiness of dried fruit, they make a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or cherries)
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in dried fruit and milk until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut into shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Smoked Fish Chowder
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful chowder recipe that combines the rich taste of smoked fish with tender potatoes and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked fish (such as cod or haddock), flaked
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add the milk, chicken broth, flaked smoked fish, and diced potatoes.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pickled Vegetables with Herbs
A classic condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal, pickled vegetables are easy to make and perfect for using up seasonal produce. This recipe combines the sweetness of herbs with the tanginess of vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, cauliflower, and onions), sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or thyme)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced vegetables and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the vegetables to release their juices.
2. Rinse the vegetables with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, chopped herbs, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the pickled vegetables into clean glass jars or containers, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Wild Game Jerky
Transform your wild game meats into a deliciously chewy and flavorful snack with this simple recipe. Perfect for camping trips or everyday snacking, this jerky is sure to satisfy any wild game enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison, elk, or deer steaks (or other wild game meat)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Slice the game meat into thin strips, removing any excess fat or connective tissue.
4. Place the meat strips in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
5. Brush the meat with the soy-based marinade, making sure each strip is coated evenly.
6. Dry the jerky in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of chewiness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Potato and Onion Hash
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This classic potato and onion hash is a crowd-pleaser, with crispy potatoes and caramelized onions in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
3. Add the thinly sliced onions and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are crispy and the onions are caramelized.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Butter Spread
Transform crisp apples into a deliciously sweet and tangy spread perfect for topping toast, muffins, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
3. Mix until the apples are well coated with the dry ingredients.
4. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a slow cooker.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or cook on low for 6-8 hours in a slow cooker, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened into a smooth butter-like consistency.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours (baking) or 6-8 hours (slow cooking)
Enjoy your homemade Apple Butter Spread!
Pumpkin and Squash Soup
A warm and comforting soup perfect for the fall season, made with roasted pumpkin and squash, onions, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the pumpkin and squash with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the roasted pumpkin and squash, garlic, nutmeg, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Homemade Lard Biscuits
A classic recipe that yields tender, flaky biscuits with a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold lard (chilled in the refrigerator overnight)
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold lard into small pieces and add to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the lard into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it forms a cohesive ball.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fermented Cabbage Slaw
A tangy and crunchy slaw made with fermented cabbage, perfect for topping sandwiches or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds (optional)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the sliced cabbage and kosher salt. Massage the mixture with your hands for about 5 minutes to release the juices.
2. Add the water and caraway seeds (if using) to the bowl. Stir until the cabbage is evenly coated.
3. Pack the cabbage mixture into a jar or container, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets. Leave at least 1 inch of space at the top.
4. Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth, securing it with a rubber band.
5. Let the slaw ferment at room temperature (around 70°F) for 3-5 days. You may start to see bubbles and a tangy aroma developing.
6. Once fermented, stir in the apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
Cooking Time: 3-5 days fermentation time
Yield: About 2 cups of slaw
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley Recipe
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of roasted root vegetables! This medley is a perfect side dish for any meal, and can be customized to your liking.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large red beet, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped root vegetables, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetable medley out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional seasonings if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Beans with Maple Syrup
Sweet and Smoky Baked Beans with Maple Syrup Recipe
Add a touch of sweetness to your classic baked beans with the rich flavor of maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or as a side dish for your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine the beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until well combined, then add the vegetable oil.
4. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Dried Berry Compote
Elevate your baked goods, yogurt parfaits, or ice cream with this sweet and tangy compote made from dried berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mixed berries (cranberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried berries and sugar.
2. Add the water and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the compote cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries have rehydrated and the liquid has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: About 1 1/2 cups compote
Boiled Corn on the Cob
A classic summer side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. This boiled corn recipe brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of fresh corn, husked and silked
– Salt, to taste
– Water, enough to cover the corn
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn.
2. Add salt to taste (about 1 tablespoon per quart of water).
3. Place the corn ears in the pot, leaving about an inch between each ear.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the kernels are tender.
6. Remove the corn from the pot with tongs or slotted spoon.
7. Serve hot, slathered with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wild Greens with Bacon Dressing
A flavorful and nutritious salad featuring a mix of wild greens, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed wild greens (such as arugula, spinach, and kale)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large bowl, combine the wild greens, crumbled bacon, and grated cheese (if using).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard to make the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Fried Cornbread
A classic Southern staple, this simple fried cornbread recipe yields a crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer or a large skillet to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg until well combined.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the batter into the hot oil in batches, about 1/4 cupfuls each.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total
Spiced Pear Preserves
This sweet and spicy preserve is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of autumn all year round. With a blend of warm spices, tender pears, and a hint of citrus, it’s a delicious addition to toast, yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine pears, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pears are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to clean glass jars with tight-fitting lids.
4. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months or freeze for up to a year.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for survival with these 18 hearty colony food recipes! From comforting breakfast dishes like Cornmeal Mush with Molasses to satisfying dinner options like Salt Pork and Bean Stew, these recipes will keep you nourished in any situation. Discover easy-to-make treats like Apple Butter Spread and Dried Berry Compote, or try your hand at preserving the harvest with Spiced Pear Preserves. Whether you’re prepping for a disaster or just looking to simplify your meals, this collection of traditional recipes is sure to hit the spot.