Step back in time and indulge in a culinary journey through the ages. In this article, we’ll be revisiting 19 forgotten old-time recipes that have been passed down through generations, some dating as far back as the Great Depression era. These tried-and-true dishes are sure to bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to your kitchen.
From classic comfort foods like Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits and Traditional Chicken and Dumplings, to hearty stews and slow-cooked braises, these recipes will transport you to a simpler time when cooking was an art form. And let’s not forget the sweet treats! Vintage Tomato Soup Cake and Pioneer Gingerbread with Molasses are just two of the many delightful desserts that await.
Whether you’re looking to recreate family traditions or simply add some variety to your repertoire, this collection of old-time recipes is sure to delight. So, get ready to dust off those old cookbooks, dig out those vintage ingredients, and experience the joy of cooking like it’s 1899!
Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Classic comfort food at its finest! These flaky, buttery biscuits are a staple of Southern charm and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch thickness. Use biscuit cutter or glass to cut into desired shape.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Depression-Era Vinegar Pie
During the Great Depression, people relied on creative resourcefulness to make do with limited ingredients and resources. This vinegar pie recipe is a testament to that era’s ingenuity, using everyday pantry staples to create a sweet and tangy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk or regular milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter, stirring until combined.
4. Beat in the buttermilk mixture and eggs until smooth.
5. Pour into an ungreased pie dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Classic Beef Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this classic beef stew is packed with tender beef, root vegetables, and rich flavors. It’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add flour to the pot and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in beef broth and red wine (if using). Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Return beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Old-Fashioned Apple Butter
Old-fashioned apple butter is a classic spread made from cooked apples, sugar, and spices. This recipe yields a deliciously chunky and sweet condiment perfect for topping toast, biscuits, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lbs apples (any variety, but sweeter apples work best), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine apples, sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the apple mixture to your desired consistency (some like it chunky, while others prefer smoother).
5. Return the pot to low heat and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter has thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Traditional Chicken and Dumplings
A timeless comfort food recipe that warms hearts and bellies. This traditional take on chicken and dumplings is a simple, satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, butter, carrots, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, whisk together flour and baking powder.
4. Add dumpling mixture to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
5. Cover the pot and cook an additional 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hobo Bread from the Great Depression
During the Great Depression, resourceful cooks like hobos and travelers created hearty breads using simple ingredients and minimal equipment. Hobo Bread is a classic example of this ingenuity, requiring only flour, water, salt, and yeast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased pot or Dutch oven with a lid.
5. Let the bread rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Boston Baked Beans
Experience the classic flavors of New England with this slow-cooked recipe that simmers tender beans in a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons bacon drippings or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add bacon drippings or oil and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Hand-Churned Butter with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your breakfast toast or baked goods with the simple pleasure of hand-churning butter infused with fresh herbs. This recipe yields a rich, creamy spread with a delightful pop of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Fresh herbs of your choice (e.g., chives, parsley, dill, or thyme)
– Optional: lemon zest or juice for added brightness
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and salt.
2. Using a stand mixer or handheld electric whisk, beat the mixture until it begins to thicken and hold its shape (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add your chosen fresh herbs to the butter mixture and continue whipping until well combined and the herbs are evenly distributed.
4. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
5. Resume beating for an additional minute or until the butter reaches your desired consistency.
6. Form the butter into a log shape, wrap in plastic wrap or wax paper, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Get ready to elevate your cornbread game with this simple recipe that yields a crispy crust and fluffy interior, all cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a preheated 10-inch cast iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Authentic Sauerbraten with Gingerbread Gravy
Authentic Sauerbraten with Gingerbread Gravy: A Classic German Dish
Sauerbraten is a traditional German pot roast dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe combines tender beef, tangy vinegar, and sweet spices to create a flavorful and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef pot roast (such as top round or rump)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Gingerbread gravy (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef, onion, garlic, vinegar, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, and cloves. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 days or up to 4 days.
2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the meat from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the beef in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
3. Cook the Sauerbraten for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Serve the Sauerbraten with Gingerbread Gravy (recipe below).
Gingerbread Gravy:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including marinating time)
Vintage Tomato Soup Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a twist on traditional desserts, using the sweet and tangy flavor of tomato soup as its base. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup canned tomato soup
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, tomato soup, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hardtack Survival Bread
This classic recipe has been used by soldiers and explorers for centuries to provide a reliable source of sustenance. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this bread is perfect for survival situations where resources are limited.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Gradually add in water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Cut into squares or shapes of your desired size.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pioneer Gingerbread with Molasses
This traditional recipe yields a moist and flavorful gingerbread that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its rich aroma and spicy kick, this classic treat is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Victorian Lemonade Scones
Step back in time with these delightful scones, infused with the bright and citrusy flavors of Victorian lemonade. Perfect for a charming afternoon tea or a rustic picnic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, eggs, lemon juice, and zest.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Turn dough onto floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Farmhouse Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of warm, golden-brown pancakes infused with the tangy goodness of buttermilk. These farmhouse-style pancakes are a classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh blueberries or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (batter should still be slightly lumpy).
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to cook all pancakes.
Roasted Rabbit with Wild Herbs
This recipe showcases the rich flavors of rabbit paired with a medley of wild herbs, creating a truly satisfying dish. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole rabbit (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 1 onion, peeled and quartered
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the rabbit pieces, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the rabbit pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Add the quartered onion to the baking sheet, tucking it among the rabbit pieces.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the rabbit is tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Colonial Johnny Cakes
For a taste of history, try these simple and delicious Colonial Johnny Cakes, a classic American recipe dating back to the 17th century. These crispy on the outside, soft on the inside flatbreads are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite colonial-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
7. Cook the Johnny Cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Old-Time Pickled Beets with Cinnamon
This old-time recipe adds a warm and comforting touch to the classic pickled beets with the addition of cinnamon. The result is a tangy and slightly sweet condiment perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or canned beets
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. If using fresh beets, wrap them in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Peel and slice the cooked beets into thin wedges.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
6. Pack the sliced beets into clean glass jars, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of headspace.
7. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are completely covered.
8. Seal and store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting beets), plus 10-15 minutes for pickling liquid
Homemade Lard Pie Crust for Savory Pies
Make your savory pies stand out with this simple recipe for homemade lard pie crust, infused with the rich flavor of rendered pork fat.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold lard (or vegetable shortening)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until the dough forms a ball.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk.
6. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (crust is raw)
Use this crust as the base for your favorite savory pie fillings, such as chicken pot pie or quiche. Simply roll out the chilled dough, place it in a pie dish, and fill with your desired ingredients before baking.
Summary
Get ready to relive the past with these 19 forgotten old-time recipes! From Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits to Vintage Tomato Soup Cake, and from Classic Beef Stew with Root Vegetables to Hardtack Survival Bread, this collection takes you on a culinary journey through time. Discover traditional dishes like Depression-Era Vinegar Pie, Old-Fashioned Apple Butter, and Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread, as well as nostalgic treats like Hand-Churned Butter with Fresh Herbs and Victorian Lemonade Scones. These recipes are sure to bring back memories of grandma’s kitchen and the good old days.