One Test of a Good Cook, Circa 1880

Have you ever noticed how there used to be specific procedures and complete instructions for doing even the simplest household chore? I found the following very detailed information about “boiling a potato perfectly” in an 1880 book on housekeeping that was written especially for the beginning cook or new bride.

“To be able to boil a potato perfectly is one of the tests of a good cook, there being nothing in the whole range of vegetables which is apparently so difficult to accomplish. Like the making of good bread, nothing is simpler when once learned. A good boiled potato should be white, mealy, and served very hot. If the potatoes are old, peel thinly with a sharp knife; cut out all spots, and let them lie in cold water some hours before using. It is more economical to boil before peeling, as the best part of the potato lies next the skin; but most prefer them peeled. Put on in boiling water, allowing a teaspoonful of salt to every quart of water. Medium-sized potatoes will boil in half an hour. Let them be as nearly of a size as possible, and if small and large are cooked at the same time, put on the large ones ten or fifteen minutes before the small. When done, pour off every drop of water; cover with a clean towel, and set on the back of the range to dry for a few minutes before serving. The poorest potato can be made tolerable by this treatment. Never let them wait for other things, but time the preparation of dinner so that they will be ready at the moment needed. New potatoes require no peeling, but should merely be well washed and rubbed.”

–from the book The Easiest Way in Housekeeping and Cooking,
written by Helen Stuart Campbell (published in 1880)

Written by Shirley | Filed Under Cooking & Baking from Scratch, Glimpse into the Past

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Comments

Comment by CrossView:

I love it! t’s actually a good read along with being informational. And for me, that sticks so much better than the assumed shorthand instructions of today!

Comment by J.C.:

I think that those prices for everyday things like milk and eggs are really cool. Do you have a more detailed list? I find this sort of thing so intresting! I’m a writer and I can never find the things mentioned on your list, when I’m researching for a new book. At least not in the year I need!
By the way do you know how much a spool of thread was in 1880? Or a yard of bolt goods, way back then?

Comment by Shirley:

J.C., I’m sure there would be something in some of the journals about how much thread or fabric costs, but there are so many entries over so many years, I wouldn’t have a clue as to where to look, but when/if I find more of this type of information, I will post it. Have you seen my other posts about prices here and here?

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