Famous Depression Era Dishes

The Great Depression was a period of economic hardship that lasted from 1929 to 1939 in the United States. During this time, many people struggled to afford food and had to make do with whatever ingredients they could find or grow. Some of the dishes that emerged from this era are still popular today, while others may seem strange or unappetizing to modern palates. Here are some examples of famous depression era meals that show how people adapted to the challenging times.

• Vinegar pie: This may sound like a joke, but vinegar pie was actually a common dessert in the depression era. It was made with vinegar, sugar, eggs, butter, flour and spices, and baked in a pie crust. The vinegar added a tangy flavor and helped to thicken the filling. Some people also added raisins, nuts or lemon juice for extra flavor. Vinegar pie was a way to use up leftover ingredients and create a sweet treat without expensive fruits or cream.
• Chipped beef on toast: Also known as S.O.S. (sh*t on a shingle), this dish consisted of dried beef slices cooked in a white sauce and served over toasted bread. The dried beef was cheap and shelf-stable, and the white sauce was made with flour, butter, milk and seasonings. Chipped beef on toast was a filling and comforting meal that could feed a large family with little cost .
• Meat and potato patties: During World War II, when meat was rationed and had to be purchased with tokens, this recipe went a long way in feeding a family. It was made by mixing ground beef with mashed potatoes, onion, egg, bread crumbs and seasonings, and shaping them into patties that were fried in oil. The potatoes stretched the meat and added bulk, while the onion and seasonings added flavor .
• Navy bean soup: Beans were a staple food during the depression era, as they were cheap, nutritious and versatile. Navy bean soup was made by simmering dried navy beans with water, ham bone, onion, celery, carrot and bay leaf until tender. The ham bone added flavor and richness to the broth, while the vegetables added color and texture. Navy bean soup was hearty and satisfying, and could be eaten with bread or crackers .
• Bread and butter pickles: Canning and preserving food was a common practice during the depression era, as it helped to prevent waste and extend the shelf life of fresh produce. Bread and butter pickles were made by slicing cucumbers and onions, salting them overnight, draining them, and then boiling them in a vinegar-sugar-spice mixture. The pickles were then packed into sterilized jars and sealed. Bread and butter pickles were sweet and tangy, and could be eaten as a snack or added to sandwiches or salads .
• Tomato soup cake: Also known as mystery cake or surprise cake, this dessert was made with canned tomato soup, sugar, flour, baking soda, spices, raisins and nuts. The tomato soup added moisture and color to the cake, but did not impart a tomato flavor. The cake was spiced with cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, and sometimes topped with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream. Tomato soup cake was a way to make a moist and delicious cake without eggs or butter .

These are just some of the famous depression era meals that people cooked during hard times. They demonstrate how people used creativity and resourcefulness to make the most of what they had. Some of these dishes may not appeal to you today, but they are part of our culinary history and can inspire us to appreciate what we have.

Sources:

: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/depression-era-recipes/
: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/23891/creamy-chipped-beef-fondue/
: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16354/meat-and-potato-patties/
: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13033/dads-lima-bean-soup-with-ham-bone/
: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/21166/chef-johns-bread-and-butter-pickles/
: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/8379/surprise-spice-cake/