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America's Melting Pot
Mulligan Stew hero image coming soon
1930-1945 - American families during the Great Depression and military mess halls in World War II
Mulligan Stew is a traditional American soup-stew known for its flexible, resourceful use of available ingredients, emerging prominently during the Great Depression and wartime rationing. This dish reflects a practical approach to feeding many with limited resources, often combining leftover meats, vegetables, and whatever was on hand in a one-pot meal.
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Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
2 hours
Total time
2 hours 15 minutes
Servings
6-8
Region
Railroad camps and migrant-worker hobo kitchens
Era introduced
1930-1945
Introduced by
American families during the Great Depression and military mess halls in World War II
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Mulligan Stew rose to prominence in the 1930s and 1940s as a frugal, communal stew made from a mix of random ingredients sourced from Victory Gardens, foraged foods, and leftover staples. It embodies the spirit of making do during the Great Depression and wartime food shortages, often prepared in military mess halls and among displaced families. There is no fixed recipe; instead, it highlights adaptability and resourcefulness in American cooking history.
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