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America's Melting Pot
Deviled Ham Sandwiches hero image coming soon
1861-1900 - Home cooks during World War II and Great Depression era.
Deviled ham sandwiches emerged during the World War II home front era as an economical and flavorful way to stretch limited meat supplies. Ground cured ham mixed with spices created a spread ideal for sandwiches in Depression and wartime kitchens.
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Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
10 minutes
Cook time
0 minutes
Total time
10 minutes
Servings
4 sandwiches
Region
Boston canned-meat and New England lunch-counter kitchens
Era introduced
1861-1900
Introduced by
Home cooks during World War II and Great Depression era.
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During World War II, food rationing and scarcity prompted home cooks to innovate with preserved meats like deviled ham. This spiced, ground ham spread was mixed with mustard and mayonnaise to create sandwiches that were both economical and tasty. Popular in Depression and wartime kitchens, deviled ham sandwiches exemplify American ingenuity in sustaining families during difficult times.
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