Tough times call for hearty meals, and during the Great Depression, people had to get creative with their cooking. With food scarce and money tight, families had to rely on staple ingredients like flour, beans, and potatoes to fill their bellies. In this article, we’ll take a culinary trip back in time to explore 18 recipes that were popular during the Depression Era. These dishes may not be as flashy as some modern recipes, but they’re filling, flavorful, and full of nostalgia.
From peanut butter bread made with simple pantry staples to vinegar pie that’s surprisingly sweet, these recipes will transport you back to a time when food was plain but people were resilient. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a themed dinner party or just want to try something new, these Depression-era recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite and your sense of history.
Depression-era peanut butter bread
This classic recipe was born out of necessity during the Great Depression, when ingredients were scarce and creativity was key. This moist and flavorful peanut butter bread is a testament to the resourcefulness of homemakers who made do with what they had.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, milk, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hoover stew with hot dogs and pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 hot dogs, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, carrots, or other vegetables of your choice
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté sliced hot dogs and chopped onion over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wacky cake with no eggs or milk
This classic dessert is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. With no eggs or milk, this wacky cake recipe is a must-try alternative that’s just as delicious and moist!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add vegetable oil, salt, and water; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in apple cider vinegar.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Poor man’s meal with potatoes and hot dogs
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy on the wallet and fills your belly!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 hot dogs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in butter or oil until softened.
3. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Add the hot dog pieces and stir well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Depression-era vinegar pie
This sweet and tangy pie was a staple during the Great Depression, when ingredients were scarce but creativity thrived. Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vinegar (white or apple cider work well)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add vinegar, water, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour in melted butter and mix until combined.
5. Pour mixture into a pie crust (homemade or store-bought).
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cornmeal mush with molasses
This classic Southern dish is a comforting breakfast or brunch option that combines the simplicity of cornmeal mush with the rich flavor of molasses. Serve it warm with your favorite toppings, such as butter, maple syrup, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and salt. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the molasses and butter until smooth.
4. Serve warm, garnished with your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Boiled cabbage and potatoes
Classic Boiled Cabbage and Potatoes Recipe
A simple and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of cabbage and potatoes, paired together with a hint of salt.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Water, enough to cover the vegetables (approximately 4 cups)
Instructions:
- Place the chopped cabbage and potatoes in a large pot or saucepan.
- Add the salt and pour in enough water to cover the vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
- Check the potatoes for doneness; they should be cooked through but still firm. If needed, add more water and continue boiling for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Drain the excess water and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Mock apple pie made with crackers
A sweet and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for a quick fix or a party on a budget. This mock apple pie is made with crackers, sugar, and spices, giving you a deliciously fake apple pie experience!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed crackers, sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; stir until smooth.
4. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or a springform pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Depression-era oatmeal pancakes
In times of hardship, a warm stack of pancakes can be a comforting treat. This recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal fuss to create a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total for 8-10 pancakes.
Water-based tomato soup
This recipe is a twist on traditional tomato soup, using water instead of cream or broth to create a light and refreshing flavor profile. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, water, and dried basil to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baked bean sandwiches
Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the comfort of baked beans with the simplicity of a sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of baked beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a baking dish or skillet.
4. Spread half of the baked beans on top of the bread.
5. Add a cheese slice, lettuce leaf, and tomato slice on top of the beans.
6. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
7. Repeat for each sandwich.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Potato soup with minimal ingredients
This comforting potato soup recipe requires only a few simple ingredients, yet yields a rich and creamy result. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and milk to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Depression-era milkless cornbread
Depression-Era Milkless Cornbread Recipe: A Hearty Alternative
During the Great Depression, milk was a luxury many families couldn’t afford. This recipe for milkless cornbread was born out of necessity and resourcefulness, using common ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup buttermilk substitute (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add sugar and vegetable oil. Mix until crumbly.
4. Add buttermilk substitute and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Note: To make buttermilk substitute, combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before using in place of regular buttermilk.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried dough with sugar or syrup
Sweet Fried Dough Recipe
A classic treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist! These crispy, sugary treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add sugar and mix until just combined.
3. Add warm water and stir until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips or squares).
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry dough pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm with your choice of sugar or syrup (e.g., maple, honey, or powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggless mayonnaise cake
This moist and delicious cake is a game-changer for those who can’t have eggs or prefer an egg-free alternative. With the help of mayonnaise, this cake turns out rich, creamy, and utterly scrumptious!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Onion and bread soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day, combining the sweetness of caramelized onions with the warmth of crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup stale bread, cubed (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Add cubed bread and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until bread is fully incorporated and soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Depression-era creamed chipped beef on toast
A Classic Comfort Food: Depression-Era Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
This simple yet satisfying recipe was a staple during the Great Depression, using affordable ingredients to create a comforting meal. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chipped beef (such as Spam or canned corned beef)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices white bread, toasted
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chipped beef and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the creamed chipped beef over toasted bread.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice pudding with leftover rice
Transform leftover rice into a delicious and comforting dessert! This simple recipe yields a creamy, sweet, and flavorful pudding that’s perfect for a quick treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked leftover rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 delicious and hearty recipes that were born out of necessity during the Great Depression. From Depression-era peanut butter bread to Wacky cake with no eggs or milk, these innovative dishes showcase the resourcefulness and resilience of those who lived through tough times. With ingredients like hot dogs, pasta, potatoes, and molasses, these recipes are a reminder that good food can be made with minimal resources. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or just want to try something new, this collection of Depression-era recipes is sure to delight.
