Bacon & Cabbage Stew For A Great Depression

   This recipe has quite a history, it is one of the meals that became popular during The Great Depression. I'm sad to say, there was nothing great about The Great Depression; maybe they should have called it The HUGE Depression or even The DEPRESSING Depression. Now that I've clarified my understanding of one of the darkest times in history for the United States, I'll try to explain the impetus behind my promotion of this recipe. Recent events seem to be pointing to economic disaster far worse than The Great Depression in the next few years to come. This recipe uses ingredients that are low cost, abundant, and have long shelf lives; the bacon can be substituted for the cured variety, and of course the slow cooker can be substituted for a pot over any flame. That being said I think I've done my part in adding a chapter to your survival guide.

A little bit about this dish, besides being easy to make, this stew has rich flavor from the cabbage and bacon. You may substitute or add vegetables to your liking. Either way, I think you'll really enjoy this stew!

Difficulty (Scale from 1-10): 3

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours (high setting) 8 hours (low setting)
Total Time: 4 hour 5 minutes or 8 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients

3 tablespoons of olive oil
1/2 head of cabbage
1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper
2 teaspoons of salt
1 1/2 cups of baby carrots
1/2 pound (7-8 slices) of bacon - cut into 1 inch long pieces
1 box (32 oz) beef broth

Preparation

Add ingredients in the order listed in a 4 quart slow-cooker, and cover. Set slow-cooker on high and let cook for 4 hours. Or, set slow-cooker on low and let cook for 8 hours.

Ladle into bowls and serve immediately.

Enjoy your stew!

By: Peter Alfieri

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Peter Alfieri is the host for the cooking TV show Buon Appetito Providence, the show's webpage is here: www.BuonAppetitoProvidence.com . He brings simple to sophisticated cooking for all of the New England Area. His style appeals to both novice and expert chefs! Recipes can be found here: www.BuonAppetitoProvidence.com/Recipes/Recipes.htm Peter also has a BS in Biology, a BS in Chemistry, a Minor in Mathematics and a 3 year degree in nursing (RN).