DEPRESSION ERA SALAD

During the Great Depression, meals were created using affordable, readily available ingredients to maximize nutrition and minimize waste. This Depression Era Salad is a pickled slaw-style dish, featuring cabbage, cucumbers, carrots, and onions, preserved in a simple vinegar brine. It’s refreshing, crunchy, and perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches, hot dogs, or grilled meats.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, thinly sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Shred the cabbage and thinly slice cucumbers, carrots, and red onion.
2. Pack the vegetables tightly into clean mason jars, leaving a little space at the top.

Step 2: Make the Brine

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, celery seeds, and mustard seeds.
2. Bring to a light simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let the brine cool slightly.

Step 3: Pickle and Store

1. Pour the warm brine over the vegetables in each jar, ensuring they are fully covered.
2. Seal the jars and let them sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours before refrigerating.
3. Let the salad marinate for at least 24 hours before serving for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side salad with grilled meats or BBQ.
• Use as a topping for sandwiches, tacos, or burgers.
• Eat straight from the jar for a refreshing, tangy snack.

Tips & Variations

• For a sweeter taste, increase sugar to 1 cup.
• For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or radishes.
• For a fermented version, leave the jars at room temperature for 3-5 days before refrigerating.

Conclusion

This Depression Era Salad is a simple, nutritious, and budget-friendly dish that has stood the test of time. With its bright flavors, crisp texture, and versatile use, it remains a delicious and practical addition to any meal. Make a batch today and enjoy a taste of history!