Depression Era Potato Soup

Like many my age, my parents' childhood was spent in the era of The Great Depression. In your case, it could even have been your grand-parents. Because of those childhood memories of going without, they spent the rest of their lives growing, harvesting & canning; fixing instead of just buying a new . . . anything, taking great care of what they have, being able to work w/their hands & simply not being afraid of HARD work. They are/were great examples of that old pioneer saying:

"Use it up,
Wear it out,
Make it do,
Or go without!"

Both sets of my grand-parents were farm families in very rural east-central Kentucky ~ one of the most beautiful places in the USA, but so hard hit by the Depression. But, in my humble opinion, there was something wonderful that came out of my Bigmom's kitchen that was passed down to my mom, to me &, hopefully, our girls will follow ~ & that was her potato soup.

Now, this is not your typical restaurant-style, fluffy, creamy "potato soup" ~ this IS real potato soup & it is the ultimate in comfort food at our house. I understand that some of you who may not be used to such simple fare may not think much of it, but to me it is one of the best, most "homey," comforting foods to come from my kitchen, especially on a crisp fall or winter day, & it is what I crave when I'm sick.

You will need:

~16-20 c. water in a large cook-pot
~8-12 medium-size white taters (Idaho potatoes for non-Kentuckians), depending upon the size of your family
~1/4 c. bacon grease (grease from pepper bacon is the best), or butter
~salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

~While water is heating on stove, dice the potatoes into 1" cubes
~Once water has come to a boil, CAREFULLY & slowly add potatoes to the water so that the hot water doesn't splash
~Add bacon grease, salt & pepper; stir to blend
~Bring back to boil then reduce heat & simmer for 30 minutes, covered or not, until potatoes are tender
~Ladle into a soup bowl; you may need to salt & pepper just a little more depending upon your taste.
~Enjoy one of life's simple pleasures.

Blessings from Ohio . . . Kim<><