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Honoring Veterans with Culinary History: The Story Behind “$#!t on a Shingle”
Few things can boost troop morale like a hot meal, especially during trying times. One popular dish from World War II, creamed dried beef on toast, is humorously yet affectionately dubbed “$#!t on a shingle.” In a recent episode of Tasting History, the host shares insights into this military staple while reflecting on its historical significance, personal memories, and a unique recipe demonstration just in time for Veterans Day.
Nostalgia and Personal Connection
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The host shares heartfelt memories of his grandfather, affectionately called "Gramps," who served in the Medical Corps during World War II. Through vivid storytelling, Gramps recounted his experiences in England, France, and Germany, instilling in the host a profound love for history. The goal for this episode is not only to pay tribute to Gramps but also to connect with viewers on a day dedicated to honoring military veterans.
Gramps would certainly never have referred to his meals in such unflattering terms, but the host sees this humorous title as an opportunity to explore its deeper history. The dish serves as a culinary connection to the past, invoking stories of soldiers who ventured into the dining halls and field kitchens of World War II.
The Recipe: From Rations to Modern Day
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The recipe for $#!t on a shingle dates back to wartime America, with an official version published by the U.S. War Department in 1944. While the original recipe was designed to serve around 100 troops, our chef opts for a smaller portion suitable for modern day cooking.
Key ingredients needed for this dish include:
Chipped dried beef
Butter (or preferred fat)
Flour
Evaporated milk
Water
Black pepper
Bread for toasting
Though this version simplifies the process, it preserves the essence of what those soldiers might have eaten while stationed in the field. The host emphasizes soaking the beef to reduce its saltiness—a nod to the challenges soldiers faced with rationed, preserved food.
An Insight into Military Cooking
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During World War II, field kitchens were essential in feeding troops. Each company had its setup, prepared to serve hot meals that could provide sustenance amid combat, along with the psychological benefits that come from a warm meal. The kitchens could be set up quickly and were designed to operate close to the front lines, although this posed risks of enemy fire.
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The versatility of military kitchens allowed cooks to prepare various dishes, although the harsh realities of war meant that certain items sometimes didn’t arrive timely or in the quantity expected. Creative adaptations became a necessity, with soldiers learning to utilize local ingredients or the limited supplies available. Not every soldier would enjoy the same meal, but when they did receive something warm and hearty, like $#!t on a shingle, it likely marked a highlight of their day.
Exploring Rations: Varied Experiences
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When examining World War II rations, two notable types stand out: the C ration and the K ration. These pre-packaged meals were crucial for soldiers, especially those far from field kitchens. The C ration provided three meals and was more diverse, emphasizing calories and nutrition. Meanwhile, the K ration was lightweight, designed for short-term use but often relied upon for extended periods due to their portability.
For many troops, daily sustenance often relied on these pre-packaged foods, which made a hot dish like $#!t on a shingle a welcome relief.
The Taste Test: A Connection to the Past
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Once prepared, the host samples the dish, which elicits mixed feelings but ultimately showcases a surprisingly pleasant flavor reminiscent of his grandfather’s gravies. Though he critiques the texture—that it could use more seasoning and perhaps a different meat choice—the whole experience is steeped in nostalgia and appreciation for its role in history.
The dish also serves as a reminder of resilience and adaptability amid challenging circumstances, much as the soldiers themselves embodied during wartime.
Honoring Veterans and Their Stories
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In closing, the host encourages viewers to reconnect with their own family histories, urging them to reach out to veterans in their lives and listen to their stories. This Veterans Day celebration transcends meals and recipes; it captures the spirit of remembering the past and appreciating the sacrifices made for future generations.
As the episode wraps up, he wishes everyone a happy Veterans Day, emphasizing respect for those who served and the importance of remembering their stories—much like the culinary history shared throughout this exploration.