Looking for ways to save money in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor? In this video, Nicole makes 10 Great Depression–era recipes that prove resourceful cooking can still be delicious nearly a century later. From pantry staples to clever substitutions, she shares thrifty tips and techniques inspired by home cooks of the 1930s — all while whipping up comforting, old-fashioned meals that stand the test of time.
We start with Hoover Stew, a hearty mix of pasta, beans, and canned goods that fed families across America, followed by a nostalgic Poor Man’s Meal of potatoes, onions, and hot dogs. Nicole then makes a simple Egg Drop Soup, crispy Stuffed Potato Pancakes, and savory Eggs with Peppers and Potatoes that turn humble ingredients into something special. Next up are Cabbage and Noodles, creamy Chipped Beef on Toast, and homemade Depression Bread that’s easy, soft, and satisfying. Finally, she brings a touch of sweetness with Water Pie and Wacky Cake — two desserts that stretch ingredients while still feeling indulgent.
Whether you’re cooking on a budget, love vintage recipes, or just want a cozy kitchen project, these Depression-era dishes show how simple cooking can be comforting, clever, and timeless.
Timestamps:
0:00 – 10 Great Depression Recipes
0:25 – Hoover Stew
3:44 – Poor Man’s Meal
6:43 – Egg Drop Soup
8:42 – Stuffed Potato Pancakes
11:20 – Eggs with Peppers and Potatoes
13:52 – Cabbage and Noodles
16:07 – Creamed Chipped Beef
16:37 – Homemade Bread
19:52 – Water Pie
21:25 – Wacky Cake
Get the recipes here:
Poor Man’s Meal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OPQqH3YlHA
Egg Drop Soup: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/173738/easy-egg-drop-soup/
Stuffed Potato Pancakes: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/206817/delicious-stuffed-potato-pancakes/
Cabbage and Noodles: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/220716/haluski-cabbage-and-noodles/
Creamed Chipped Beef: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/20225/creamed-chipped-beef-on-toast/
Water Pie: https://www.allrecipes.com/article/what-is-water-pie/
Wacky Cake: https://www.allrecipes.com/wacky-cake-recipe-11687015
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We have always had macaroni and tomatoes and sometimes add browned burger. Only salt and pepper seasoning. Fit for a king!
The egg potatoe and peppers my grandfmother cooked that in a cast irion por to fry up, then popped it in the oven when she put the eggs in. It gives it a nice presentation
And if I could give you more than one thumbs up, I would. Those recipes were great
If on a low sodium diet soak the dried beef in water to reduce the salt content
The water pie Nanna used to add either lemon, lime or orange zest to the sugar and flowe mixture to give it a little more flavor.
Depression era?… more like today era lol
With the hotdogs and potatoes you could also add salsa verde or rojo- would really make the flavors pop.
You can pass for Mariska Hargitay’s sister😊😊😊😊. Law & Order
I love Clara!! Such a precious lady!!
These are mostly still cheap. SOS is not with chipped beef running about $10 per smaller jar than you got. 😢 We can't find it most places here either. 😒