Forget avocado toast and sourdough starters – this summer, TikTok is serving up a different kind of trend. As economic anxieties grip the nation, a wave of “recession recipes” is sweeping across the platform. From budget-friendly ramen hacks to ingenious ways to stretch a single chicken breast into a week’s worth of meals, these creative culinary concoctions are capturing hearts and stomachs alike.
But beyond the viral videos and food porn, there’s a deeper story unfolding. These recipes are more than just clever ways to save a buck; they’re a reflection of our collective anxieties about the rising cost of living and a testament to the power of community in tough times.
The Versatility of Beans: How They Can be Used in a Variety of Dishes
As the ultimate low-cost protein, beans have become a staple in many recession-era kitchens. With eggs being so pricey, beans have taken center stage in many recipes on TikTok. From flavoring beans with smoked pork neck bones, to mixing them with sauce and cornmeal to form a loaf, the possibilities are endless. One of the main advantages of using beans in recipes is that they can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a practical choice for those on a budget.
Recession Recipes from the Past
The Great Depression Era Recipes That Made a Comeback During the Pandemic
During the 2020 pandemic, it wasn’t so much food prices as food shortages that had people worried, although more than nine million people also lost their jobs that year. Combine these concerns with the fact that students and anyone not employed in healthcare or other essential services suddenly had a lot more time on their hands, and what do you get? A bunch of newly-fledged TikTok creators sharing recipes for such Great Depression-era classics as prune pie and slumgullion, a stew made with ground beef, canned vegetables, and potatoes or pasta.
Other recipes that hit big at the time included wacky cake, a chocolate dessert made without eggs or dairy, and water pie, which “magically” transforms a rather wet flour and sugar paste into something more or less edible.
The Comfort Food Factor: How Making Recipes from the Past Can Foster a Sense of Community
The obvious reason why so many Great Depression recipes were popular during the pandemic is that they tended to be made with limited ingredients that weren’t too costly. Another, subtler reason might have been that making recipes passed down from your grandmother — or even some total stranger’s grandmother — can be comforting because it’s a reminder that others have lived through hard times before. It can be said to foster a sense of community, even with people who may have long since passed on.
The Practicality of Old-School Recipes: How They Can Help Us Navigate the Coming Recession
It’s good to know our Depression-era ancestors (or somebody’s) will have our backs in the coming recession, too, with recipes that can carry us through until we once again have full pantries and wallets.
Practical Recipes for the Recession-Era Kitchen
Dollar Tree Delight: A Budget-Friendly Take on Pizza
One of the most popular recipes on TikTok is Dollar Tree Delight, a take on pizza made with Dollar Tree’s Texas toast, pasta sauce, cheese, and frozen meatballs.
The Bologna Bonanza: How to Get Creative with Lunch Meat
Another recipe that has gained popularity is a Mexican-inspired sandwich where the lunch meat is fried alongside jalapenos and onions.
The Ultimate Budget Meal: Chicken Legs, Macaroni and Cheese, and Frozen Vegetables for Under $2 per Serving
One of the bigger and cheaper dinners, however, is an extravaganza of chicken legs, macaroni and cheese, and assorted frozen vegetables that apparently feeds two adults and six children for about two bucks apiece.
Conclusion
Conclusion: The Recession-Friendly Recipes Revolutionizing TikTok
As we conclude our exploration of the phenomenon that is “recession recipes” on TikTok, it’s clear that this summer’s culinary trend is more than just a fleeting fad. The article, “Recession Recipes Are Taking Over TikTok This Summer – The Takeout,” highlighted how the economic uncertainty surrounding inflation and rising living costs has pushed users to seek out affordable, resourceful, and creative ways to cook at home. From making the most of pantry staples to repurposing leftovers, these recession recipes are not only a reflection of our current economic landscape but also a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the online community.
The significance of this trend extends beyond the confines of social media. It speaks to a broader shift in consumer behavior, where people are reevaluating their priorities and seeking value in the face of uncertainty. As we navigate the complexities of the modern economy, the recession recipes phenomenon serves as a reminder that food can be both a source of comfort and a means of survival. With the cost of living continuing to rise, it’s likely that this trend will only continue to gain momentum, pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in the kitchen.
As the summer months approach, it will be interesting to see how the recession recipes trend evolves and adapts to the changing needs and preferences of users. One thing is certain, however: the power of social media to shape our culinary habits and inform our consumer choices has never been more evident. As we move forward, it’s clear that the recipes we make, the ingredients we use, and the values we prioritize will be shaped by the economic realities of our time. The question is, what will we cook up next?