18 Classic Old Time Recipes for Modern Kitchens

18 Classic Old Time Recipes for Modern Kitchens

In this modern era, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest culinary trends and forget the humble classics that have been passed down through generations. But there’s something comforting and reassuring about cooking up a batch of homemade biscuits or a hearty beef stew that warms the heart and fills the belly. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 classic old-time recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your modern kitchen.

From Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits to Vintage Chicken and Dumplings, these timeless dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of nostalgia and tradition to their cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these classic recipes are sure to bring a smile to your face and a twinkle to your taste buds.

Stay tuned as we explore the world of old-time recipes in this special feature!

Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

Grandma’s Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

There’s nothing like a warm, flaky biscuit fresh from the oven to start your day off right! These classic buttermilk biscuits are a staple in many Southern households and are sure to become a favorite in yours.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Yield: 8-10 biscuits

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Traditional Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

Traditional Beef Stew with Root Vegetables Recipe

This hearty stew is a classic comfort food dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. With tender beef, flavorful root vegetables, and a rich broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and cubed parsnip to the pot.
4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Old-Fashioned Apple Pie with Lattice Crust

This old-fashioned apple pie recipe is a timeless classic, featuring tender apples and a delicate lattice crust that adds a touch of elegance to any gathering.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour until coarse crumbs form.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Roll out half of the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Trim edges and fill with apple mixture.
5. Roll out remaining dough for lattice crust. Use pastry cutter or knife to create strips.
6. Place lattice strips on top of apples, weaving in and out to form a lattice pattern.
7. Brush lattice with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.

Southern-Style Cornbread in a Cast Iron Skillet

Classic comfort food gets a rustic twist with this Southern-Style Cornbread recipe, cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron skillet. A crumbly, golden-brown treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite Southern dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– Honey or maple syrup, optional (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg until smooth.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
6. Grease your cast iron skillet with a small amount of butter or cooking spray.
7. Pour cornbread mixture into the skillet and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Vintage Chicken and Dumplings

This comforting classic is a staple of American cuisine, made with tender chicken, rich broth, and pillowy dumplings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Bring a large pot of chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the boiling broth. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Depression-Era Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

During the Great Depression, resourcefulness was key to survival. This rich and moist cake recipe uses mayonnaise as a substitute for expensive butter or eggs, making it a thrifty alternative to traditional cakes.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Classic Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze

This hearty meatloaf recipe is a comforting classic, elevated by a rich tomato glaze that adds depth and flavor to every bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tomato glaze (see below)

Tomato Glaze:

– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the tomato glaze by combining all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Brush the tomato glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Slow-Cooked Pot Roast with Gravy

Tender and flavorful pot roast is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This slow-cooked recipe yields a fall-apart roast with a rich, savory gravy.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on both sides, then set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pot roast to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the roast is tender.
8. Remove from oven; let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Strain the pan juices and whisk in flour to thicken. Serve with sliced pot roast.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Homemade Clam Chowder with Cream

Experience the rich flavors of New England’s classic clam chowder, elevated by a creamy twist.

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups clam juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, flour, milk, cream, and clam juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Old-Time Molasses Cookies

These chewy cookies are a classic treat that will transport you back to grandma’s kitchen. The rich flavor of molasses and the warmth of spices will have you hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Country-Style Fried Chicken with Gravy

Savor the classic comfort of homemade fried chicken and rich gravy, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, legs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy ingredients: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat 1/2-inch vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove fried chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. For the gravy, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Enjoy your crispy fried chicken and rich gravy with your favorite sides!

Hand-Cranked Vanilla Ice Cream

Make delicious homemade vanilla ice cream using a hand-cranked ice cream maker. This classic recipe yields a creamy and smooth dessert perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the pure vanilla extract and whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into your hand-cranked ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (approximately 20-25 minutes).
4. Once the ice cream has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Cooking Time: None needed! Just crank and enjoy!

Yeast-Risen Cinnamon Rolls with Icing

These classic yeast-risen cinnamon rolls are a staple of any breakfast or brunch spread. With a sweet and sticky icing to top it all off, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (equal parts cinnamon and granulated sugar)
– Confectioners’ icing (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread with cinnamon sugar mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll up tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let rise for 30-40 minutes or until doubled in size.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes.

Confectioners’ Icing:

– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls.

Pickled Beets with Hard-Boiled Eggs

This classic combination of sweet pickled beets and savory hard-boiled eggs is a perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
– 6-8 hard-boiled eggs, cooled

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the sliced beets, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Once the beets have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container with the hard-boiled eggs.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus cooling time)

This recipe yields 6-8 servings. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy!

Farmhouse Buttermilk Pancakes

Savor the warmth of a farm-fresh breakfast with these fluffy, tangy pancakes made with real buttermilk and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for lazy Sundays or cozy weekend mornings.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: blueberries, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins of your choice

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
4. Add melted butter to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 8-10 pancakes

Vintage Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and pleases the whole family.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 8 oz of noodles (such as egg noodles or macaroni)
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, and chopped onion. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and hot.
4. Add flaked tuna to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
6. Transfer the noodle mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with grated cheddar cheese and melted butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

Transform a classic ham into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar with the savory flavor of a baked ham. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan or large baking dish, scoring the fat in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the brown sugar glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Classic Bread Pudding with Raisins

Warm up with a comforting classic! This bread pudding recipe combines the sweetness of raisins and the richness of buttery bread to create a delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Pour in melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Fold in raisins.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Summary

Get ready to take a culinary trip down memory lane! This collection of classic old-time recipes is sure to delight your taste buds and bring back nostalgic memories. From traditional comfort foods like homemade buttermilk biscuits and beef stew with root vegetables, to sweet treats like apple pie and chocolate mayonnaise cake, these vintage recipes are perfect for modern kitchens. With a range of dishes from Southern-style cornbread to Depression-era tuna noodle casserole, there’s something for everyone in this hearty collection. So gather ’round the table and get cooking with these timeless treasures!