About a week ago, I found a 1943 cookbook called Redbow Recipes in an antique store. It’s a 48 page booklet that is full of recipes for the dried vegetables Redbow sold. I researched Redbow and only found their trademark application. The first time they used their name was in 1924. They applied for the trademark in 1937 and again in 1977. It expired in 1997. The trademark was owned by the Graham Co. Inc of New York.
The company sold dried vegetables in cartons with cellophane windows so the consumer could see the product inside. The cookbook lists numerous kinds of lentils, peas, beans, barley, and nuts as products sold. I couldn’t find any images of products or any other information about the company at all. If you know anything more about this company, I would love for you comment below or send me a message.
Many of the recipes in this cookbook were submitted by women across the country. The contest was advertised over the radio. Oh, how I wish I could find more about this company and their radio contest!
Results
These croquettes were mildly flavored and filling. Seasoning with salt and pepper is definitely recommended. I think they would be too bland without it. Experimenting with different seasonings or dipping sauces would be fun. My husband said he thought the ketchup helped spice up the flavor. They were a bit crumbly, but they held their shape enough to pick them up and eat them with our hands. The recipe didn’t make very many croquettes, so if you are wanting to make these as a side dish, keep that in mind.
I did want to add that while the book briefly talks about stretching meat and has recipes called Victory Croquettes and V-Burgers, there is not a single mention of the war or rationing despite being published in 1943.
Let me know if you try these!
History in the Kitchen 