Depression Day Steak
Depression Day Steak Recipe: A Tasty & Budget-Friendly Dish from the USA
Introduction
Depression Day Steak is a classic comfort food recipe that has been passed down through generations. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The combination of hamburger, cracker crumbs, and mushroom soup creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
History
Depression Day Steak originated during the Great Depression when families had to make do with limited ingredients. This recipe was created as a way to stretch a small amount of meat into a filling and flavorful dish. Over the years, Depression Day Steak has become a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed by many.
Ingredients
- 3 lb (1.36 kg) hamburger
- 3 lb (1.36 kg) cracker crumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 0.25 cup chopped white onion
- 2 cans mushroom soup
How to prepare
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly and press the mixture onto a cookie sheet. Refrigerate overnight to allow it to set.
- Cut the mixture into squares, coat each square with flour, and brown both sides. Transfer the squares to a baking dish.
- Pour the soup over the meat mixture in the baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup for a different twist on the recipe.
- Top the steak with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to refrigerate the meat mixture overnight to allow it to set and hold its shape.
- Coat each square of meat with flour before browning to create a crispy crust.
- Be sure to brown both sides of the meat squares to add flavor and texture to the dish.
- Baking the steak in mushroom soup adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Depression Day Steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad. Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Press the meat mixture onto a cookie sheet to create even squares.
- Brown the meat squares in a skillet before transferring to a baking dish.
- Bake the steak in the oven until heated through and bubbly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of hamburger.
- Crushed crackers can be used instead of cracker crumbs.
- Any cream-based soup can be used in place of mushroom soup.
Make Ahead Tips
Depression Day Steak can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Depression Day Steak on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of gravy for added flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Depression Day Steak with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded dinner.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Depression Day Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
25g per serving
Fats
- Total Fat: 15g per serving
- Saturated Fat: 5g per serving
Proteins
- Protein: 20g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Iron: 10% of the daily recommended value per serving
Alergens
Contains wheat and soy
Summary
Depression Day Steak is a hearty and satisfying dish that is rich in protein and iron. It is a comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.
Summary
Depression Day Steak is a classic comfort food recipe that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. This hearty dish is easy to make and full of flavor, making it a favorite among many. Enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones for a satisfying and comforting dining experience.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Depression Day Steak. It was a simple sheet of paper, yellowed with age and covered in delicate handwriting that seemed to tell a story all on its own. The recipe had been passed down to me by my dear friend, Mrs. Thompson, who had learned it from her grandmother during the Great Depression.
Mrs. Thompson had always been a wealth of knowledge when it came to cooking. She had a way of making even the simplest ingredients sing with flavor and I had spent many afternoons in her kitchen, watching in awe as she whipped up delicious meals with ease. When she handed me the recipe for Depression Day Steak, I knew it was something special.
The recipe called for just a few basic ingredients - a cheap cut of steak, some onions, potatoes, and a few pantry staples. But the magic, Mrs. Thompson explained, was in the method. The steak was first seared in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and then simmered slowly with onions and broth until it was tender and flavorful. The potatoes were added towards the end, soaking up all the delicious juices and turning into a hearty side dish that perfectly complemented the steak.
I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following Mrs. Thompson's instructions to the letter. As the steak sizzled in the skillet and the aroma of onions and broth filled the air, I felt a sense of connection to the women who had come before me, cooking with love and ingenuity even in the toughest of times.
When the meal was finally ready, I sat down at the table with my family and we dug in. The steak was tender and rich, the onions caramelized and sweet, and the potatoes creamy and comforting. It was a meal that warmed both our bodies and our hearts, a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of those who had come before us.
From that day on, Depression Day Steak became a staple in our household. Whenever times were tough or we needed a bit of comfort, I would turn to that recipe and lose myself in the simple act of cooking. Each bite was a reminder of the strength and spirit of the women who had passed it down to me, a connection to the past that I cherished more than words could say.
As the years went by, I continued to share the recipe with friends and family, passing on not just the ingredients and method, but the stories and traditions that went along with it. And each time I made Depression Day Steak, I felt a sense of gratitude for the women who had taught me how to cook with love and creativity, even in the hardest of times.
Now, as I sit down to write this story, I can almost smell the onions sizzling in the skillet and hear the laughter of my loved ones around the table. Depression Day Steak may be just a simple recipe, but to me, it is so much more. It is a connection to the past, a reminder of the strength and resilience of those who came before us, and a testament to the power of food to nourish both body and soul.
So, if ever you find yourself in need of a bit of comfort or a taste of the past, I urge you to give Depression Day Steak a try. Cook it with love and care, savor each bite, and remember the women who passed it down to me - their spirit lives on in every delicious mouthful.