Grandpa’s recipes have a way of making the task of preparing dinner feel less like a chore and more like a comforting ritual. With straightforward ingredients and unfussy methods, these nine dishes are reminiscent of his welcoming kitchen. They’re designed to bring warmth and familiarity to your dinner table, even on those busy workday evenings.
Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
The Russian Vinaigrette Salad is a hearty combination of root vegetables, taking roughly 45 minutes to make. It’s a blend of beets, carrots, and potatoes, dressed in a sharp vinaigrette. This salad offers a sweet and earthy taste that would often grace Grandpa’s dining table. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that warms the soul.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)
Homemade kosher dill pickles
Homemade kosher dill pickles bring back memories of crunching into a tangy, herb-infused snack at Grandpa’s house. These pickles, taking about a week to ferment, feature fresh cucumbers, dill, and garlic. They boast a classic briny flavor with a refreshing crunch. It’s a timeless recipe that yields a taste of nostalgia in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade kosher dill pickles
Mustard garlic scape pickles
Mustard garlic scape pickles have a unique twist with the addition of scapes, taking about a week to prepare. The main ingredients include garlic scapes, mustard seeds, and vinegar, creating a sharp and zesty flavor profile. These pickles are reminiscent of summers spent in Grandpa’s garden, full of fresh, bold flavors. Their piquant taste adds character to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mustard garlic scape pickles
Mexican Quick Pickles
Mexican Quick Pickles are a vibrant addition to any table, ready in just about an hour. This recipe includes a mix of vegetables like carrots, jalapeños, and onions, all brought to life with Mexican spices. The result is a colorful, slightly spicy pickle that’s both crisp and tangy. They’re the kind of quick, flavorful pick-me-up that Grandpa always seemed to have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Quick Pickles
Spicy garlic dill pickles
Spicy garlic dill pickles are a fiery take on the classic, requiring about a week for fermentation. They’re made with cucumbers, garlic, and a generous helping of red pepper flakes. These pickles deliver a garlicky punch with a kick of heat, reminiscent of Grandpa’s bold culinary choices. They’re perfect for those who like a little spice with their crunch.
Get the Recipe: Spicy garlic dill pickles
Middle Eastern spiced butternut squash pickles
Middle Eastern spiced butternut squash pickles are an exotic treat that take about a week to prepare. This recipe features butternut squash, Middle Eastern spices, and vinegar, resulting in a sweet and aromatic flavor. They remind you of Grandpa’s adventurous spirit in the kitchen. These pickles are a delightful departure from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern spiced butternut squash pickles
easy lacto-fermented whey pickles
Easy lacto-fermented whey pickles are a testament to the simplicity of traditional preservation methods, ready in about three days. With cucumbers, whey, and salt, these pickles develop a tangy, probiotic-rich flavor. They’re the kind of wholesome, gut-friendly snack Grandpa would have enjoyed. Their refreshing taste is both familiar and comforting.
Get the Recipe: easy lacto-fermented whey pickles
Quick-pickled Russian sauerkraut
Quick-pickled Russian sauerkraut takes just about 3 days to sour, featuring shredded cabbage and carrots. It’s a simple dish with a deeply savory and tangy profile. This sauerkraut is a staple that brings to mind the robust, homey flavors of Grandpa’s kitchen. It’s a versatile condiment that complements a variety of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Quick-pickled Russian sauerkraut
Bar Tartine’s Sauerkraut Soup
Bar Tartine’s Sauerkraut Soup is a warming dish that can be made in about 2 hours. It combines sauerkraut, smoked meats, and potatoes in a rich broth. This soup has a savory, slightly sour taste that would often simmer on Grandpa’s stove. It’s a comforting bowl that’s perfect for cold days.
Get the Recipe: Bar Tartine’s Sauerkraut Soup