Although many sources cite
The Texas Cook Book by the Ladies Association of the First Presbyterian Church of Houston (1883) as the first cookbook published in Texas, Caroline Chase’s slim volume was published a year earlier and thus predates the established title. It was advertised in the May 25th edition of the
Brenham Weekly Banner and had successful local circulation based on Chase’s reputation as a marvelous hostess and cook. Mrs. Chase states that her many friends prevailed on her to publish the receipts she had been using for over twenty-five years. Folksiness and firm assurance characterize her writing, and the recipes included are primarily for condiments, drinks, baked goods including over three dozen different cakes, vegetables and soups. In addition to a few exotic concoctions such as Cucumber Catsup (contains no tomatoes) and Biscuits for Dyspeptics, the book contains a modest number of practical household mixtures such as onion water to keep flies from damaging picture frames.
Although many sources cite
The Texas Cook Book by the Ladies Association of the First Presbyterian Church of Houston (1883) as the first cookbook published in Texas, Caroline Chase’s slim volume was published a year earlier and thus predates the established title. It was advertised in the May 25th edition of the
Brenham Weekly Banner and had successful local circulation based on Chase’s reputation as a marvelous hostess and cook. Mrs. Chase states that her many friends prevailed on her to publish the receipts she had been using for over twenty-five years. Folksiness and firm assurance characterize her writing, and the recipes included are primarily for condiments, drinks, baked goods including over three dozen different cakes, vegetables and soups. In addition to a few exotic concoctions such as Cucumber Catsup (contains no tomatoes) and Biscuits for Dyspeptics, the book contains a modest number of practical household mixtures such as onion water to keep flies from damaging picture frames.