Selections from Aunt Sammy's Radio Recipes and USDA Favorites

"Selections from Aunt Sammy's Radio Recipes and USDA Favorites" by Ruth Van Deman et al. is a compilation of recipes originally tied to the radio program "Housekeeper’s Chat," which aired in the late 1920s and was produced by the USDA. This culinary work serves as both a historical account and a cookbook, capturing the essence of homemaking during a time when radio was a primary source of information for American families. The collection spans recipes from both the late 1920s and the 1970s, providing insights into evolving cooking practices and nutrition. The book features a wide variety of recipes, organized into categories such as soups, main dishes, vegetables, fruits, breads, salads, and desserts, showcasing dishes from onion soup au gratin to chocolate souffle. Each recipe is clearly presented with ingredients and instructions that reflect the cooking methods and tastes of their respective time periods. Additionally, the authors emphasize practicality, with many recipes designed to be economical and nutritionally sound, catering to the needs of families striving to make the most of their food resources amidst changes in society and economy. Overall, this collection not only serves as a useful compilation of family-friendly recipes but also as a nostalgic look back at the role of radio in American culinary history.