Recreated Hardtack recipe

[ClintI]

My grandmother used to make hardtack for us when we were children. I never knew the significance of it in terms of the Civil War until recently. My brother has copied her recipe as faithfully as he remembers. It's attached here for anyone interested in making it.

 

[dlavin]

This sounds way better than the recipe I used once which was white flour, water, and salt. At least yours gives flavor to it.

 

[James Brenner]

Hardtack and flavor. Isn't that an oxymoron?

 

[gary]

Rye? That's too fancy for government rations but it does sound more appealling that flour/water/salt hardtack/sea biscuit.

 

[ClintI]

I'm certain soldiers didn't have this kind. I guess my grandmother "fancied" it up to make it appetizing to me and my brothers.

 

[James Brenner]

If I remember correctly (always iffy), hardtack was made only with flour and water. No salt was used as it was hygroscopic and attracted moisture.

 

[ClintI]

That makes sense to me. Probably didn't have or carry salt with them in the supply trains. Unless they happened on a home or farm where they could take or steal it?

 

[donna]

Thanks for posting. It does make hardtack more appealing.

 

[ClintI]

I thought it would engender some conversation. I'm glad you liked it!