Food History - Popular Meals in the 50s


Popular Meals in the 50s

The 1950’s was an incredibly significant era in history, filled with iconic events that we will continue to learn about for many years to come. We have the 50s to thank for rock and roll music that brought Elvis Presley to the forefront of the genre. There was a boom in the economy after the war and some incredible flattering fashion items took centre stage. Not only this, but we saw the boost in popularity of some iconic culinary dishes that are still served throughout the world today. Here’s some of the most popular meals that were available in the 50’s.

Starters

Deviled Eggs Deviled eggs are a delicious savoury starter that became incredibly popular in the 50’s and have been regularly served as a starter at dinner parties all over the globe ever since! They’re a delicious savoury twist on a boiled egg, where the yolk is mixed with mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard and seasoning before being squirted back into the centre of the hard boiled egg and ready to serve. Oysters Rockefeller This delicious and somewhat swanky starter was undoubtedly one of the chosen starters of the 50’s, and if you love seafood, then we’re sure you’ll have given this classic delicacy a try. If you haven’t already - we really recommend that you do. Oysters Rockefeller are half oysters served in their shells, topped with a rich sauce of butter, parsley and other green herbs and breadcrumbs before being baked or broiled.

Main Course

Meatloaf When it comes to wholesome and hearty meals, they didn’t get much better than a good old meatloaf back in the 50’s. It’s a dish of ground meat cooked in the shape of a loaf by using a loaf tin, traditionally seasoned with herbs and spices and finished with sauce. This comfort food is filling and delicious - easily customisable to your personal taste. Tuna Noodle Salad If you’re ever doing your research on classic meals of the 1950’s then it’s almost impossible not to come across a recipe for tuna noodle salad. It was undeniably one of the most popular meals of the 50’s, favoured by cooks like Betty Crockett. It was made with tuna and a classic cream of mushroom soup to give a delicious creamy flavour. A truly classic quick family favourite.

Dessert

Baked Alaska Baked Alaska is a seriously tasty treat which combines all of the best elements of dessert into one decadent end result - ice cream and cake are topped with a delicious browned meringue for a wonderful crunchy and flavoursome finish. Start with a simple chocolate cake and layer with icecream of your choice, before finishing with a meringue which is browned with heat. This gorgeous dessert offers something for everyone, and it’s a real show-stopper too! Jello Salad There are few dishes as synonymous with the 50’s as a classic jello salad. Jello comes in a host of different flavours, and each one can create a delicious and different fruity dessert. Simply add hot water to your sachet of jelly and stir until dissolved. Leave in the fridge to cool slightly, before stirring in some strawberries or whichever fruity delights you fancy, whipping until the mixture is thick. Stir in some whipped topping and then leave to set and you’re ready to serve! Each one of these dishes will give you a serious dose of nostalgia, offering you a menu which is every inch as delicious and appreciated today as it was back in the 1950’s. Why not use this list to throw a 50’s style dinner party complete with fancy dress and an Elvis soundtrack? We just hope we’re invited!


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