The Great Depression lasted from 1929 to 1939 and caused major economic challenges around the world. Families had a hard time finding enough food and had to get creative with what they had. The people of this time, known as the Greatest Generation (those born between 1901 and 1927), developed many inventive and tasty recipes that are still popular today. Users on Reddit have shared their family recipes from the Great Depression era, which continue to help people save money and be resourceful. Here are 17 recipes from that time that you might want to try.
**Soups, Stews and More**
**Beef and Noodles** One user shared a family recipe featuring egg noodles, creamed corn, canned chicken noodle soup, and ground beef. The ground beef is browned first, and then the other ingredients are added along with enough water or light chicken stock to cover the noodles. The mixture is brought to a boil, then simmered for about 15 minutes. Afterward, it rests for 10 minutes before serving with buttered white bread. This dish is still made today and is reminiscent of homemade Hamburger Helper.
**Hoover Stew** Another recipe includes a box of noodles, a can of tomatoes, hot dogs or canned meat, a can of corn, peas, or beans, and 2-4 cups of water. All the ingredients are mixed in a pot and boiled, then simmered for 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender. Optional additions like onion and garlic can enhance the flavor.
**Zaprezna Soup** This soup starts with a roux, which is seasoned with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds. Water is added to create a thick soup. Dumplings made from eggs, flour, and seasoning are dropped into the soup to cook. Known as zaprezna soup or depression soup, it was frequently eaten during tough times.
**Chipped Beef on Toast** This dish uses 8 oz. of dried beef, 2 tablespoons of butter or oil, 4 tablespoons of flour, and 4 cups of milk. The beef is cooked in a pan until it softens. Flour is stirred in and then milk is added to create a thick sauce. This mixture is served over toasted homemade bread.
**Rivel Soup** A user recalled their mother making ravel soup during their childhood. This soup is milk-based and features dough balls made from flour. Sometimes fried potatoes were added to enhance the dish.
**Potato Soup** Another recipe calls for 4 large potatoes, 2 garlic cloves, a sliced carrot, and a can of meat like sausage or hot dogs. The vegetables are cooked with water and milk in a pot until tender, and herbs and salt can be added for flavor.
**Tuna Fish Stew** A family recipe involves celery, potatoes, canned tuna, milk, and hard-boiled eggs. The celery is sautéed, then chopped potatoes and water are added until the potatoes are cooked. The stew is thinned with milk and hard-boiled eggs are mixed in before serving over stale bread. This dish is known for being inexpensive and filling.
There are many other recipes from this time that showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of people during hard times. What are some of your favorite budget meals?
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Source: Upworthy, by Emily Shiffer