Food from the 1970s - I cooked up a FULL DAY of meals!

What was cooking in the 70s like? I tried a full day of meals featuring food from the 1970s! The recipes were fantastic - from a slow cooker meatloaf recipe (the BEST crockpot meatloaf I've ever eaten) to sweet and delicious Cinnamon Raisin Bars, I couldn't be happier with this menu.
All recipes are from Better Homes & Gardens New Cook Book (1976)
Items from this video:
My hand mixer - yes, it has a light on it: amzn.to/3HzB9hX
Small colorful dessert and prep bowls: amzn.to/3HbWsWy
GIR spatula: amzn.to/3vx9Fqm
Oil spray bottle: amzn.to/3TRBeEX
Breakfast: Denver Scramble (pg 307)
Lunch: Taos Salad Toss (pg 317), Cinnamon Raisin Bars (pg 125)
Dinner: Meatloaf Florentine (pg 25), Basil Carrots (pg 359), Cinnamon Apple Rings (pg 327)
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Timestamps
0:00 Intro
0:33 Cinnamon Raisin Bars (part 1)
5:36 Denver Scramble
8:50 Cinnamon Raisin Bars (part 2)
10:09 Taos Salad Toss
13:15 Meatloaf Florentine
16:50 Cinnamon Apple Rings
17:51 Basil Carrots
18:25 Sour Cream/Mushroom Sauce
21:56 Cookbook Talk - Better Homes & Gardens New Cook Book (1976)
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CINNAMON RAISIN BARS
1/2c butter, softened
1c brown sugar
1 1/2c all purpose flour
1/2tsp baking soda
1/2tsp salt
1 1/2 quick cooking oats
Raisin Filling (see below)
Cinnamon Icing (see below)
Cream butter and sugar. Sift together dry ingredients; stir into creamed mixture.
Add oats and 1Tbsp of water. Mix until crumbly. Pat HALF of the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread with Raisin Filling. Mix remaining crumbs with 1 Tbsp of water; spoon over filling and pat smooth. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes. Cool. Drizzle with Cinnamon Icing.
RAISIN FILLING: Combine 1/4c granulated sugar and 1 Tbsp cornstarch in saucepan. Stir in 1c water and 2c raisins. Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Cool.
CINNAMON ICING: Mix 1c powdered sugar with 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Stir in enough milk (I started with 1T and gradually added a little more) for drizzling consistency.
TAOS SALAD TOSS DRESSING
1 large avocado, mashed
1/2c dairy sour cream
2Tbsp Italian salad dressing
1tsp dried minced onion
3/4tsp chili powder
1/4tsp salt
Blend avocado and sour cream. Add Italian dressing, onion, chili powder, salt, and a dash of pepper. Mix well and chill.
MEATLOAF FLORENTINE
2 slightly beaten eggs
1/2c milk
1 1/2c bread crumbs
1 - 10oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
2Tbsp soy sauce
1 1/4tsp salt
1/4tsp bottled hot pepper sauce
2lbs ground beef (I used a mix of beef and pork)
Combine eggs, milk, bread crumbs, spinach, soy sauce, salt, and hot pepper sauce. Add ground beef, mix well. Lightly grease bottom and sides of slow cooker insert. Shape meat mixture into round loaf to fit bottom of insert, place inside. Cover and cook on high* for 4 hours. Using 2 spatulas, remove meatloaf; drain off excess fat. Makes 8 servings.
*I cooked 1/4 of the total meat mixture in this recipe and it took 2 hours on high in my small slow cooker. Once the meatloaf reaches 160 - 165 it's done and safe to eat. I reduced the temp to low to keep it warm while preparing the rest of my side dishes.
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MY FAV KITCHEN GEAR - seriously, I use this stuff ALL the time:
- Ove Glove: amzn.to/3CkmyV5
- Geometry Kitchen Towels: www.geometry.house/?ref=AnnaB15 - use my link for 15% off!
- Small offset spatula: amzn.to/3GB9Rb7
- OXO Mini Angled Measuring Cup: amzn.to/3Gx2osz
- GIR Silicone Spatula: amzn.to/3ImvNIs
- Butterie Flip-Top Butter Dish: amzn.to/3YZ8j1I
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INSTAGRAM: _cookingthebooks_
FACEBOOK: / cookingallthebooks
PATREON: patreon.com/CookingAllTheBooks
------------------------------
CAMERA GEAR:
- camera: amzn.to/3WOaIeo
- mic: amzn.to/3X0FwIh
- lavalier: amzn.to/3VBEzFr
- shooting grip/tripod: amzn.to/3i8aGyG
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[@cooking_the_books]

Do any of these meals from the 1970s look familiar to you? Let me know in the comments!

[@brendakrieger7000]

I love the Suisse Mocha International Coffee too! Although I don't think that there are any bad flavors☕

[@brendakrieger7000]

I don't think I've ever met a meatloaf I didn't like💜

[@janelleclark4458]

Those oatmeal-raisin bars look exactly like something my grandma would have baked in the 70s. She liked bars and cookies with dried fruit. (So do I!)

[@laurac-ss1cp]

The meat loaf my mom never put spinach in it

[@nicole-uo9cd]

I used to have the paperback version of that cookbook!!

[@rcdoodles6214]

How hilarious. You use a cookbook considered ‘vintage’ and it’s the one I’ve been using since 1978! Doesn’t seem old to me! 😊

[@janetnelson4729]

Same for me. My binder doesn't close very well now because of all the use. The rings have sprung. I like many of the recipes.

[@lorilxn1597]

Me too😂

[@lorilxn1597]

I haven't has Swiss mocha for a longtime. My mom always bought it, yes made of tin.

[@kreh1100]

I think I have the same one too❤

[@madelinechriston8970]

Yep. It's a youngin! I lost my virginity in '75! (Lmao)❤

[@mljs9245]

Anyone else get excited when crockpots started having removable crocks!?! Washing the original one was such a pain.

[@LibraryLizard]

Yes, it was glorious.

[@Ajk1955]

Lol yep. Have my original down cellar

[@ssaraccoii]

Then add the liner bags they make now! 😊😊😊😊

[@kirstenredfield8216]

I didn't realize they were ever made without a removable crock 😂😂😂 but I'm glad too because yes that would be a major pain !!!

[@russbear31]

Yes, the Crock Pot was the hot appliance of the early 1970s, but they were very expensive gadgets because they were 100% American made in the '70s. (In today's money probably $250+ for a cheap model. Prices fell once it was offshored to China. ) I live in Kansas City, where Rival Corp. was based in the 1970s and the first Crock Pots were made, using local companies and local suppliers through the 1980s. A few months ago the local NPR radio station produced a Crock Pot documentary. It was fascinating, especially the interviews with the 5 women who worked in Rival Corp's test kitchen. Long story short: 5 Kansas City housewives developed about 90% of the slow cooker recipes that are still used today. 😅

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh my gosh, I really want to listen to that! I’ll have to look for it. I’m such a slow cooker fan. 😂

[@juttadestiny6810]

Circa 1975 i worked at monier villawood (australia) they also made the crock pot! 🧡💚🇦🇺

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

I don't think it's the same article @russbear31 is referring to, because it doesn't seem quite as informative and it's only a 3 minute listen, but still interesting.@@cooking_the_books

[@deendrew36]

Sounds fascinating! Thanks for sharing. 🙂

[@beverlyoyarzun3326]

I think the Crockpot in 1973 cost $29.99 (which was a fortune) and was the gift at wedding showers- I still have and use mine in Flame Orange. The funny thing is the basic Crockpot still costs about $30😊

[@snooksmcdermott]

Do I love that you use yellow Tupperware measuring cups and spoons from the 70s? Yes, I do.

[@ellenjoy2675]

Me too. We still use those yellow measuring cups my Mom had in the 70's.

[@nicolebrown6450]

I watched another vintage recipe you tuber and I did not like it. I'm realizing as much as I love cookbooks...it's you that I'm here to see. I really like your personality and laid back style. It's like hanging in the kitchen with my sisters. I adore you. Thank you for being you❤❤❤

[@lynnries7729]

This book was a wedding shower gift to me in 1980 along with the Fannie Farmer cookbook. I still have them both, they are well used and loved. BH&G magazine used to print recipe pages that could be added by cutting out and punching those holes to fit in the appropriate food category! Good memories.

[@cooking_the_books]

A few people have commented that they received this book (or another I've cooked from) as a wedding gift or a shower gift, and I just think that's so neat! 😊

[@ennsma]

I have an early 90s edition of Fannie Farmer. An excellent culinary “Bible” and go-to reference.

[@lynnries7729]

@@ennsma Exactly...even though there are no pictures!

[@LindaLee375]

As a young wife in the 70's, I was given this 1976 edition. I make my mother's meatloaf but now I want to try this one! Thank you for a fun trip down memory lane! I'm so glad the algorithm took me to your channel.

[@cooking_the_books]

I'm glad my video sparked some fun memories! This meatloaf really was delicious. Also makes a great freezer meal!

[@RaymondTheThird]

My mom got this when she got married too. Childhood foods are all here 🥰

[@jakigirl2000]

I was a youngster in the 1970s. I remember that I did not know there was fresh mushrooms available, I thought all mushrooms were from a can lol. Instant potatoes really were a thing back then. I like vintage cooking. Enjoying your videos.

[@cooking_the_books]

We mostly had canned mushrooms, too! Glad you are enjoying my videos. It's always nice to hear from a fellow vintage cooking enthusiast!

[@jeannestark6293]

I can? Sorry you’re probably from the midwest where they can’t cook period all mushrooms are in the produce section. I’m sorry that you had to be brought up with bad mushrooms

[@jakigirl2000]

There might have been fresh in those days but I think that my family never purchased them. Have mostly fresh mushrooms in my life now, and whenever I have canned mushrooms it brings me back to those days I don’t mind the taste of canned mushrooms having grown up eating them but I definitely prefer the fresh ones I’m from Canada

[@juttadestiny6810]

I still use deb instant mash potatoes! No lumps ever!! My late mum also used it ( late 1960 s) 🇦🇺💚❤️

[@queenbunnyfoofoo6112]

We usually had canned mushrooms. Fresh mushrooms weren't that common in stores.

[@wendyfaith1048]

Your vintage utensils, cookware and dinnerware are very cute.

[@cooking_the_books]

Thank you! 😊 I love showing them off in my videos.

[@normacooper6377]

My mom gave me this cookbook when I got my first job/apartment as an adult! I still have it and have found it very helpful. I’m now retired.😊

[@SongbirdCollageArts]

In Canada, we call these "matrimonial bars". They can also be made with chopped dates or chopped prunes. Totally remind me of my grandma.

[@celestewatson4874]

Omg! I'm so excited you said that, I've been wondering which recipe was likely to be my grandma's date bars - given this was her cookbook, im pretty certain this was it!! I'm going to make these as date matrimonial bars next week ❤

[@aliyamoon80]

My mother's favorite cousin was NOT a fan of raisins. I giggled at that memory!

[@Rebecca-sc2di]

That's the main cookbook my mom used and still does. It's the one I learned to cook from as a little girl and seeing the pictures brought back soon many memories!

[@cooking_the_books]

Yay! So glad I could spark some good food memories. 😀

[@carolynbares7643]

Not only the recipes, but your cooking equipment is totally vintage and so right on!

[@C.C_Creations]

I am 67 years old so I remember all of these decades and I enjoy your show, it's a great idea to go thru the books. I have quite a collection of cookbooks and enjoy using them too. You will never run out of topics. I like that you use the period plates and cups also, that is cute. Good Luck and I will continue to watch. PS I've been looking for more recipes to use spinach in so this was perfect!

[@cooking_the_books]

It's always great to hear from fellow cookbook collectors! I agree - I will never ever run out of cookbooks to talk about or recipes to try. Thank you so much for watching!

[@lisabandy3186]

I in

[@lisabandy3186]

I receved this cookbook as an "somthing old" at my wedding shower from my girlfriends when i got married in 1983 . I have used it so much its now held together in a blacl binder and the pages are in plastic sheets 😂. Some sheets are missing from moves and distruction of the toddler kind ! The older cookbooks are so fun !

[@laurijohnson7754]

The Italian dressing we ate with every salad was the Good Seasons that came in a packet. You got a free cruet and added regular oil and water. I think you can still buy it. It was so good

[@amsodoneworkingnow1978]

I'm in UK and I have a collection of cook books dating from Mrs Heaton to several from KZbin channels. I'm still searching for Magritte patents cards for her boiled fruit cake that would complete my collection.

[@user-cg2bs7jr3y]

I do remember my nana having the international coffee at her house. It did come in a tin with the flag colors. We are a lot of meatloaf in the 70’s. We didn’t have a crock pot. I was young in the 70’s you brought back great memories ❤.

[@cooking_the_books]

Thank you so much for watching! Glad I could help bring back some nice memories. 😀

[@cathoderaytube7497]

I grew up in the '80s (graduated high school '87) and those coffees were still coming in the metal flag tins. I don't know when they switched over to plastic.

[@atticfanatic6587]

Just found you and I am so glad I did! Your personality and presentation are so comforting and, well, regular. That may not sound like a compliment but it is in a BIG way. No yelling, no seizure-inducing quick cuts and fast zooms, no shaky camera effects or flashing overlays. Just focused and friendly content with lots of info and personal insight. Watching you is like hanging out with that one really good friend who shares my interests and is ready to sit down and chat over a cup of coffee...not like the friend who always shows up with a "plan" and a bottle of vodka.

[@sandrapicton6349]

Oh my goodness, the first sight of that cover brought back such memories - I was given an earlier version of it as an 11th birthday present by my mother in 1953, and I cooked the peanut butter cookies recipe for years and years, it never failed!

[@cooking_the_books]

I'll have to check out that cookie recipe! 😀

[@mareneaufrance5096]

If I remember correctly, International Coffee used to have special or seasonal tins. They would be vintage now.

[@maryjackson1194]

In the 1970's, limes didn't show up in the grocery store very often, at least not in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Whenever they did, my dad bought some for me to make a pie. He always presented them as a treat for me -- I loved to make desserts -- but we both knew whose treat they were!

[@clairetaylor4641]

You are inspiring me to get out my cookbooks and make some of these older recipes. I have just lost my husband and I think it would be fun to try some of these and I will half the recipes like you have.

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh dear, I'm so sorry for your loss. This was one of my favorite 'full day' types of menus that I've done. The recipes were especially delicious!

[@marthawalton8370]

I am sorry for your loss

[@deendrew36]

I am so sorry for your loss. 💔. Maybe making some of his favourites would be a good remembrance and bring you some happiness.

[@mrburns91]

One thing I definitely miss from the 70s-90s era of cooking are the squares/bars. Date squares, coffee cake, things like that. So many of them were so simple but also just delicious comfort desserts that do well when company popped over.

[@deendrew36]

For sure. I tend to cook bars and squares in the fall for some reason. They feel fall-y to me!

[@swoods7043]

Just found your channel! I am a 70 year young lady. My dad made denver omlettes all the time I was growing up. He added cheese and they always were our favorites. My mom was also a good cook. I have really good memories of food growing up.

[@cooking_the_books]

Hello! Glad you're here. Food is so personal, and I have loved reading viewer comments about their food memories. 😊

[@mollyswanner1607]

Salads were so so popular in the 70's. If not a main meal sometimes always on the side. Usually with avocado.

[@kathysimpson3249]

I love this cookbook. It has always been my go to cook book. It’s very worn and both the pancake and biscuit pages are in rough shape 😂

[@KatieCooksandCrafts]

This is the cook book my mother had on her bookshelf. I was given a lot of free reign in the kitchen at a pretty young age and i used this cook book alot. I loved the color pictures and the tabbed categories. Also a lot of the recipe had variations listed below the main recipe. It taught me a lot

[@lindak1768]

Those apples! My dad talks about his Mom (born in 1901) making applesauce with her sisters in a large copper pot over a fire outside with red hots in it. Makes me want to make the apples. Grandma and her sisters would get together and can stuff. Their brother had a apple orchard, a huge one that was open to the public to pick. That’s how he made his living. I was a teenager in the seventies.

[@melody3795]

My mother in law gave me this cookbook in ‘89 when I was married. I love using it.

[@cooking_the_books]

SO many great recipes!!

[@lisapop5219]

I had the same thought about the coffee as a kid. The commercials said celebrate the moments of your life. When we got married and had a few $ , we tried some. Because of the commercials, we always referred to them as moments. They are really sweet

[@cooking_the_books]

The height of elegance! 😂

[@jeanfitzsimmons7442]

I still have that cook book the ‘60’s version. I think it was a wedding gift in’63. I moved on to the first of 3 versions of Joy of Cooking, still my favorite.

[@stillsinglestephanie]

The slow cookers did explode in the 70s...particularly on This is Us 😢😂 Sorry, I couldn't resist when you said that. I love these full day of a decade meals!

[@cooking_the_books]

I knew someone would mention that!! 🤣 So glad you enjoy these types of videos.

[@chiarac3833]

We never had a slow cooker and that's exactly why.

[@spencerhasting1258]

Why would you say that 😭😭 I cried so hard watching that scene 😂😂😂

[@marleneclough3173]

Use my slow cookervall the time you just need to understand which dishes are best for it

[@rozchristopherson648]

@@chiarac3833 A slow cooker exploded?!?!? I thought only pressure cookers exploded back then. I’m 62. I was a teen in high school back in the 1970s. My chemistry lab partner came limping into class one day with her foot in a cast. Her mom’s pressure cooker had exploded and landed full force on her ankle, fracturing it.

[@kimmerlee10]

This is the cookbook I used to teach myself how to cook because my mom didn’t really cook much or that well. I still make the lasagna recipe in that book.

[@cooking_the_books]

That's awesome! I loved this book and the recipes. What a great choice for learning how to cook. I'm going to check out that lasagna recipe!

[@randallbargar348]

Denver omelet was definitely the name for the breakfast dish in the 1970's.

[@Bildgesmythe]

And 50s

[@lisahanneman3977]

I totally agree about the Better Home and Gardens. All cooks need one. Very solid.

[@cooking_the_books]

Seriously, such a great book! I'm currently working on a video using the 1950s version. 😀

[@pinkdolly]

I’m 27 and I’ve never cooked but I think I’m ready to start learning. I’ve really enjoyed this series, thanks for sharing!

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh that is so awesome! Cooking brings me a lot of joy, and it's exciting to hear someone say they're ready to start learning. If you're looking for ideas and don't know where to start, I recommend checking out some children's cookbooks (and I'm saying that sincerely and hope it doesn't offend). There are some great ones out there, and they tend to explain the steps in a really clear and easy way. Best of luck on your cooking journey!

[@pinkdolly]

@@cooking_the_books it doesn’t offend at all, in fact I had the same idea! I immediately bought the reprint of the Betty Crocker cookbook for boys and girls!

[@pinkdolly]

@@cooking_the_books funny story, I just found out my mom also watches your channel!

[@wmluna381]

How's it going? Any dish successes along the way?

[@jofelker7656]

I remember when you could buy cinnamon apple rings in a jar. I loved them. I will give this recipe for sure. I was married in 1973 so this episode is particularly fun.

[@debmarie55]

I got married in 1976 and that cookbook was THE cookbook that I received at my bridal shower along with everyone else that was married in 76, 77, 78, etc. The mashed potatoes in the pouch were definitely an item that reflects 1970's cooking, so many convenience foods were introduced in that Era to make it easy for the working woman to still provide a hot meal for her family after working all day. Oh, the crock pot was an absolute essential in any 70's kitchen!

[@jtamsmom5]

I love my vintage Better Homes and Gardens cookbook with the red and white cover. I have a 1966 and 1978 copy, both belonged to wonderful women.

[@Samantharichie1986]

I'm glad you are making authentic food from the eras; the cold cereals such as corn flakes were mostly for the children and also used as a coating for fried or baked foods.

[@MajahDancer]

Yes, that's true. We always had a box of corn flakes in the cupboard, but they were kind of "last resort" breakfast meals for us. Mom used to make a baked chicken recipe that used crushed potato chips. It was delicious.

[@Samantharichie1986]

@@MajahDancer That sounds yummy. I'll have to try it sometime

[@brendasoler4759]

What a trip down memory lane! I well remember those Maxwell House International Coffees! So fancy! LOL!

[@simplemealsbytvlog6491]

Before my mom passed, she had almost every better home and gardens cookbook that was out there

[@thistlemoon1]

You're correct the international coffees did come in metal tins that were collectible. If I'd known then what I know now I would have collected some.

[@cecoya]

I would eat all those meals, I was born in the mid 60's and grew up on meatloaf and potatoes but usually a red gravy. The Denver eggs only needed cheese and possibly sour cream with chili. Good food and good friends lol have a wonderful day

[@cookingwithsherry]

Thanks for explaining the difference between the quick and old fashion oats , I wondered . The Denver scramble looked good I remember my first slow cooker ! I rejoiced when they came up with removable crock though

[@cooking_the_books]

I learned about different types of oats in 4-H and it actually stuck with me! 😄 The removable crock is ESSENTIAL. I can't imaging trying to clean my slow cooker without it.

[@user-kh9jv8cx3l]

Believe it or not, I still have one of those non removable crocks along with two others that are.

[@Notable2Nikki]

I would make those raisin bars with Craisins and orange juice in the glaze. yum!

[@cooking_the_books]

What a fantastic sounding combination!

[@kinawood7454]

In the early 70's whenever I stayed with my Grandma, breakfast was either a bowl of Post Toasties, Wheaties or a piece of toast with with a little Karo corn syrup poured over it, which was surprisingly good.

[@irenedennis1003]

I, too, thought those Maxwell House International coffee were the heighth of elegance 😂.

[@cathlynballard8409]

The Denver “scramble” done as an omelette (not as scrambled egg) makes a great sandwich, on lightly toasted bread along with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo - it is an all-time great! Or done a la a grilled cheese. Yum!!!

[@happycat3399]

Oh my gosh! My dad used to do this for dinner! What a wonderful memory you just reminded me of!! Thank you🥰 I remember this being such a delicious toasted bread dinner sandwich! Always with mom’s garden beefsteak tomatoes with salt and mayo in the omelette sandwich. He loved to make breakfast for dinner, steak and eggs for breakfast, fried hotdog sandwiches for lunch. Ohhh the memories!💕

[@gloriastroedecke2717]

They took away a lot of great flavors from the General Foods International coffee. at one time they had an Irish Cream. The original containers were tin. In addition to that every so often they would have promotional fancy art design tins in the style of Van Gogh,Chagall, and others.

[@deendrew36]

I used to love the Irish Cream one!

[@laurallewien2165]

I miss Café Amaretto, 😋

[@eyestoseeearstohear9030]

I know I'm a bit late, but just found this channel and had to chime in too. I remember the Khalua Cafe international coffee..it was so good.

[@gingerhoggatt7838]

Growing up in the 80s my parents used this cookbook a lot. It was so cool to see it again! We had those plates too, that made me feel super emotional. 😭 I collect vintage cookbooks too but don’t cook from them. You’ve motivated me to try something! I’m so glad I found your channel. 😊

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh thank you so much!! It makes me very happy that you are feeling motivated to try a recipe from your vintage cookbooks. ❤

[@Shayna11NM]

I grew up in the 80s and 90s and we had those same white plates with the green floral border as well! I think my parents (now in their early 70s) still have one or two left in the cupboard. I also recall a matching gravy boat and coffee cups with saucers.

[@mollymollie6048]

Was a kid in the 70s with a full-time working mom, who still cooked a totally from scratch dinner for us every night…Sunday was extra nice, cause she had more time. No idea how she did this (or the zillion other things she did) but here was a standard weeknight meal: Fried chicken (pan fried in cast iron skillet…so good) mashed potatoes, gravy (homemade), a green veg like broccoli/brussel sprouts (I loved them, she always steamed them and put butter and soy sauce on it…delicious!) We didn’t have dessert (she didn’t want a bunch of junk food in the house) but she’d make cookies, cupcakes, etc. over the weekend (and we were allowed one bag of chips and one package of cookies each week from the grocery.) Other standards: Baked whole chicken, with the same sides; chicken pot pie…leftovers all in the pie, crust from scratch..perfect!; Fried pork chops, acorn squash (with butter and brown sugar) and peas with onions (or zucchini with onions and parmesan), beef stew in the ubiquitous 70s butternut yellow Crock Pot, lol. Very Midwest, hardly low fat…but we weren’t overweight either. She was a great cook and could make pretty much anything…she started getting gourmet in the 80s watching cooking shows on PBS, so we’d have things like chicken cacciatore with homemade noodles, and less fried stuff (although when she would ask what I wanted for dinner on weekends when I came home from college it was immediate: Friedchickenmashedpotatoesandgravyyyyyyyy!!!!!) She had a huge garden, too, so summers/fall included a ton of fresh produce. I still cook a lot of her foods, and they’re still good! She was notorious for writing down vague ‘recipes’ if it was written down at all. I was her “helper” and everything was ‘some of this, a little of that…until it tastes like this…until it looks like that’ kind of directions. When my friends ask for ‘recipes’ I usually tell them, come over early next time I make it, and I’ll show you how…it doesn’t have a recipe.

[@mandalynn4571]

Oh my gosh I remember those recipes .. Oh how I remember that cookbook my Mom had the same exact one which now I have inherited as I have also inherited both of my grandmothers cookbooks and recipe boxes and I use them often. Thank you so much for taking down memory lane its great to see others take joy in cooking and cookbooks as well.

[@cooking_the_books]

I'm so glad my videos can bring back some good memories for you. Thank you for watching! ☺

[@dianadunaway656]

You totally remind me of my beautiful daughter, probably about the same age💕 I love your energy and love of “vintage”/retro cooking! You are so go-to-it, love that you make the recipes originally as published…we all “tweak” our way layer👍👍 Also I enjoy your critique of the results!

[@moonbeamcottageonmartinicove]

Thank you for sharing this fun, nostalgic recipe trip to the 70s! My mom used to make raisin bars like the ones you made - possibly even the same recipe, and they were a favorite of my childhood. I am lucky to have inherited my grandmother’s BH&G New Cookbook, dated 1953 and often use the “Oh Boy Waffles” recipe from that edition - highly recommended, if you enjoy waffles. ❤

[@cooking_the_books]

So glad you enjoyed the 70s recipes! Those raisin bars were amazing, I can see why they were your favorite. I'll have to see if the "Oh Boy Waffles" are in my 50s BH&G book!

[@melissagarrett1131]

I bet you could add rum to the raisins to add a flavor element, I am definitely going to try them. I have so many raisins to use up.

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh for sure, I think you could tweak the filling and change it up a bit. The bars were really great!

[@lndavies1845]

I have a nigella recipe for banana bread, and it requires raisins soaked overnight in spiced rum. They are wonderful.

[@karendaley3184]

​@@lndavies1845That one is my absolute favourite recipe for banana bread!

[@deendrew36]

My mom often plumped her raisins in rum before using them in baking. Adds a lovely flavour!

[@maureenp581]

I appreciate meal menus because pairing foods eludes me -- so thanks for this!

[@bennylawrence6221]

We still use those plates with the avocado green trim at my mother in laws house

[@MC-ox3mf]

I LOVE that so many of your dishes have a 70's vibe for this video. I grew up drinking Maxwell House Cafe Vienna with my Grandma Green (and then we would watch old mystery movies and read Agatha Christie until all hours of the night :). I also LOVE that you're very real about your videos.

[@lynnries7729]

Such a pretty meatloaf! Mom made either baked or scalloped potatoes in the same oven with meatloaf. Loving your content.

[@cooking_the_books]

Thank you! 😊

[@Bildgesmythe]

Scalloped potatoes! Yummy

[@HowIMetHelen]

My parents married in 1976, and this cookbook was a wedding present! So nostalgic for me!

[@DonutDocP]

It all looked great, and I'd definitely eat it - but now I really want to make those cinnamon raisin bars!

[@cooking_the_books]

They were so delicious! I'd love to try them out with dried apricots, too.

[@janetadams7259]

I don't see that you do any merchandise, but if you ever do, I think your biggest seller would be an apron that says. " It's Fine!". I Crack up every time you say that, because it's exactly what I say whenever I'm putting together a new recipe. Love your videos!

[@suzanneleonard5485]

I received this book when we married in 1974. It was my cooking bible so to speak. I passed it down to my son when he married.

[@simplemealsbytvlog6491]

All those dishes look amazing 😊

[@susanhirtzel8410]

That was my go-to cookbook when I got married in 1973 and was first learning to cook. Still occasionally use it today.💗

[@kathysimpson3249]

I like the vintage dishes you use to go with the recipes

[@tanishatch6835]

I want to come hang out at your house! I’ve been playing with cookbooks since I was a newlywed 30 yrs ago. It’s fun!!! I’m making those raisin bars today♥️

[@RitaS0831]

I found your station the other day and I have been watching your videos since then. I'm always interested in the vintage things. It reminds me of my youth. I'm in my 70s and have memories of my father baking and my mother cooking in the 50s and 60s. I married in 1969 so I have some of the cook books you have. I only picked certain recipes from each of them because many times the books asked for too many ingredients or it was more involved than I wanted mess with. It has been fun watching you.

[@cooking_the_books]

Hello 👋 and welcome! So glad you are enjoying my channel. I hear you on some of the recipes having too many ingredients or steps - that's something I try to watch out for when planning my menus for these videos.

[@susanrobinson408]

Everything looks so good! Those raisin bars look so tasty! The menu reminds me of dinners when I was at home in the 60s-70s. Plus, everytime you use your measuring cups, I have to laugh....mom is 94, and she is still using hers! But they are in the lovely avocado green of the era. Also, I am her caregiver and she has two cups of International Coffee in the Cafe Vienna flavor every single morning!

[@dianaw.571]

One of my most treasured items is Betty Crocker cookbook my Mom gave me for Christmas my senior year. It's extra special because she wrote a special message in it. I was gifted the BH & G one when we got married and used both all these years. I enjoy your personality and love seeing your vintage cookware, utensils. Pyrex and Tupperware (I'm a former Tupperware Lady🙂). Also your background music choices add a nice touch to your videos.

[@glamelame7315]

I still have this book. My mom gave to me when I got married. I could only cook hamburger helper and boxed dinners and cakes. This book taught me how to cook. I have tweaked most of the recipes in the book. Great book for teaching. Especially now that they don't teach home economics comics in school anymore.

[@kellyschoepf2002]

I can't believe I've never found your channel before. I live in Cleveland area. I love all of your vintage pieces. Reminds me of my childhood.

[@cooking_the_books]

Hello and welcome!! I have had a few Clevelanders pop up in my comments recently. Glad to have you! I absolutely love showing off my vintage kitchen items in my videos and am always thrilled when someone takes notice of them. 😄

[@christineforbesforbes2324]

I remember loving those International Coffees and also thought they were so fancy

[@patriciasweet151]

I love this cookbook. Made many meals and desserts .

[@redrooster1908]

Your cookware & bowls are delightfully vintage!! A tad envious❤

[@user-vv3go4tt5p]

I love your channel, and using the dishes from the correct era. Just like I remember, as a child or the 50s and 60s. Keep it coming.

[@HeavenWithouttheE]

I remember my Mother buying a huge microwave at Sears…they were still fairly “new”. They had cooking classes and we went to all of them. I never thought the microwaved version of roasted chicken was very good lol!!!

[@sweetpea2839]

This is my cook book. I was a young woman in 1970s and I bought this cook book the pages are yellow now. My basic cooking is from my parents as I learned by watching and helping until I could cook a meal when my parents were busy as a teen. 1950s - 1960s

[@Crosses3]

I have one of those cookbooks with a gold cover. It has all the recipes my family used especially for cookies and cakes.

[@RaymondTheThird]

The red checkered cookbook is a one my mom has and you’re eating food she made for me a bunch as a kid 🥰

[@juliannedascendis8678]

Loved International coffees back in the day! Great video with great memories

[@cooking_the_books]

Thank you! ❤

[@dannyscandi]

I got that exact cookbook for a wedding present when I was 18 in 1980

[@eleveneleven11114]

I always add milk to scrambled eggs b/c that's how my great grandma and grandma made them, and that's how my dad liked them! I think it helps to mellow the sulfuric eggy taste and makes them fluffier.

[@debra333]

Wonderful video! I got that cookbook as a housewarming gift in '79!! Fantastic. And I remember that coffee in the tins. I LOVE your channel! ❤

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh thank you!! Love hearing peoples stories about the cookbooks I share. This book would have made a fantastic housewarming gift!

[@valerieshaw3344]

Thanks for featuring this cookbook and 70's recipes. I married in 1973 and have this exact cookbook. I've used it so much over the years. I am a pie baker and this is my go-to cookbook when making pie fillings from fresh fruits to this day. It's fun to see you use cookware and dishes from previous eras. I am still using many dishes that I got when I first started out. I'm new to your channel and looking forward to watching more of your videos.

[@sabacat]

Yum! Those eggs are making me hungry! I LOVE that mug!

[@jameycossey486]

I make the same thing except with dried dates. Favorite from when I was a kid. Born in 57! I still my Betty Crocker cookbook I got in 1974.

[@cherylbenton7107]

Besides the yummy food you cooked, I really love how you used that gorgeous 70s style pot and that cool coffee mug and your owl glass! Just discovered your channel, and I think you're fabulous! Love the recipes, the cookbook reviews, and your fun cheerful delivery. ❤❤❤

[@sallyoakes7709]

BH&G is how I learned to cook! My mom, though, didn't have one and she also had no imagination. She didn't really like to cook even though she was a homemaker. I grew up with canned vegetables, canned biscuits (I used to love the Hungry Jack kind with layers), chicken & dumplings made from cream of chicken soup & canned biscuits.... when she made pancakes, there were pieces of not-quite-cooked egg in them where she hadn't thoroughly stirred them into the mix (boxed, of course). Just like mom used to .... well, heat up and call it cooked

[@ron_stoppable2137]

getting cozy vibes i love it

[@mollyswanner1607]

I got married in 1983 and this cookbook i got for a shower gift! I love it and still use it

[@cooking_the_books]

I love this! 😊

[@jokerz7936]

I remember the internationals metal tins because it was my mum's "fancy coffee". She also use to sweeten her regular coffee with saccharine tablets because sweet in low was too expensive. Coffee she made in her white with the blue flowers corningware percolator.

[@janehipsher1320]

Old Fashioned Beef Stew and Hurry Curry Tuna are still family favorites from this cook book

[@user-cp1vo4hd4p]

I was given that cookbook as a wedding present in 1981 . It is still my go to for cookie and cake recipes. I especially like the busy day cake as a pineapple upside down cake.

[@Beth-yz5ov]

I love this cookbook❤

[@lindabeard488]

I use this cookbook still. Love 💕 and Hugs. ❤❤❤

[@aprilnewell5434]

I just happened opon your channel. I am inspired. I had fun watching

[@cooking_the_books]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@mermaid4122]

WOW ! You are so calming and enjoyable to watch. I loved this decade the best

[@andreasobocinski2158]

Just came across your Channel-and I LOVE it! The books, your choices, the dishes You use- all very legit. As I am 64, I lived this. What a reminder of Our family’s happy days gone by. Never stop!

[@cooking_the_books]

Oh thank you so much! I'm glad you are enjoying my videos. It's also very helpful to hear that my menu choices are somewhat accurate. I know my videos are not always reflective of everyone's experiences during these decades, but I do try my best!

[@lburgess63]

Instant nostalgia. Instant mashed potatoes and canned Dinty Moore beef stew* cooked over a Coleman gas stove. Camping in the constant rain, in a Midwest national park. Fighting off blackflies and mosquitos while trying to sleeping on the floor in a smelly wet canvas tent with four siblings under age 10 and mom and dad. My parents were so brave! And instant mashed potatoes with extra 2 percent milk and butter will forever be my comfort food. Great for dental work, flu, stomach woes -- and broken hearts. *Did they change the recipe? It's never tasted so delicious since....