The American family receipt book

Front matter

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O N O

O M O

Introduction

WHEN I began to save the various "recipes" and "suggestions on domestic economy" contained in this book, it was with no thought of having them printed, but as the collection grew and there grew a demand for just such a book, I wrote something like one thousand of my acquaintances, the following letter, which will explain itself:

" My Dear Friend:

"At this, the beginning of the twentieth century, the thoughts of every up-to-date person are naturally turning toward that great and important subject: What shall we eat? The people at large are asking for a new cook-book, something that will not only tell us how to make the most appetizing foods, but healthful ones, as well.

"To meet this demand, I am about to prepare a cook-book on an appetizing and healthful plan. The thought suggested itself by the rare and delightful treats which I have had at the hands of a few of my friends, who, on various occasions, have sent me recipes for healthful, and yet delicious, breads, soups, salads, cakes, etc. These have been so much appreciated that I have decided to ask my friends all over the United States, to send one or more of their favorite recipes, which I will include in the book. I believe such a work will be useful, for one made up of culled recipes, with the name of each donor underneath, must be reliable, and hence, valuable to every housewife. I therefore invite 3^ou to contribute your favorite, with directions for making same — something not found in any cook-book to your knowledge. All these, bound in one volume, will make a sotivenir book that I shall be proud to have, you will be glad to own, and every woman will be glad to possess,"

In answer to this letter, I received hundreds of replies. From the first letter received, I quote the following extract: "I think your idea of a recipe book, a good one, and gladly contribute my favorite, in the line of a pudding."

The second wrote: "I send a recipe for a layer cake, which, we think,

is excellent. Some have called it the 'Minnehaha Cake,' but while it is

similar to the Minnehaha, it is even nicer. I do not know any name

for it, but as I live out here on a Minnesota prairie, will call it the 'Prairie

Cake.' "

10 INTRODUCTION.

A third wrote: "As you want a recipe not found in other cook-books, I will give you an original one. My little grandson wanted I should make him a birthday cake — one not like other cakes. Grandmothers are ever equal to the occasion; I made one and it was so highly praised, that I have been led to make it several times since — always with the same result. We call it 'Leroy's Birthday Cake' — you may call it what you like."

And still another wrote: "I have decided to tell you my way of making bread, as it is very simple and not nearly as much trouble as the way most people make it. My neighbors think it is excellent."

Another wrote: "I send along with my favorite some tried recipes of my neighbors."

Another wrote: "If you can put in only one of my recipes, put in the prescription for beautifying and making the hair grow. Every family should have it."

Thus, dear friend, the helps and suggestions in the book have been gathered from many sources. Besides those which have been sent by friends from in and out of town, from States both adjoining and remote, there are those that have been used in my family for years. I have given credit, where it was possible to remember from whom they came. Those taken from other books, are used by the kind permission of the authors or publishers. I am greatly indebted to all who have contributed, or by their courtesy made it possible for me to use their favorites in this book.

It is not a haphazard collection, gathered at random from doubtful sources, but has been made up, sparing neither labor nor expense, from the choicest bits of the best experience of many who have long traveled the daily round of household duties, not reluctantly, like drudges, but lovingly, with heart and hand fully enlisted in the work. May it lessen the perplexities of all who use it as a guide and stimulate that just pride, without which great excellence is impossible.

THE AUTHOR.

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Contents

THREE THOUSAND HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS AND RECIPES.

BOOK L

Arranging the Table — Up-to-Date Methods 16