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Home » Roundups

23 Classic Recipes That Defined the Good Old Days

By: kseniaprints · Updated: May 21, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links.

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These 23 classic recipes bring back familiar flavors that have stood the test of time. Each one is simple and uses ingredients you probably already know. They’re the kinds of dishes people have been making for generations. These recipes are reliable, comforting, and worth adding to your regular meal rotation.

Organ Meat Stew with parsley garnish.
Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe takes about 2 hours to make with chicken, carrots, and noodles. It has a clear, comforting broth and simple flavors. This soup warms you up with its mild seasoning and tender chicken. It’s a staple that reminds many of home and tradition.
Get the Recipe: Classic Jewish Chicken Soup Recipe

Ukha Russian Fish Soup

Overhead view of blue bowl of soup.
Ukha Russian Fish Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Ukha Russian Fish Soup cooks in around 1 hour and uses fresh fish, potatoes, and herbs. The broth is light but flavorful with a subtle fish taste. It’s clean and satisfying, perfect for colder days. This soup has been a classic in Russian homes for years.
Get the Recipe: Ukha Russian Fish Soup

Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein

Gefilte fish on plate with beet horseradish.
Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe with Beet Chrein is ready in about 1.5 hours, combining ground fish, eggs, and onions. The taste is mild and slightly sweet, balanced by the tangy beet horseradish sauce. It’s a traditional dish often served cold. This recipe is a familiar favorite at many family tables.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Gefilte Fish Recipe With Beet Chrein

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Colombian tamales on a plate.
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano). Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Chicken Colombian Tamales take around 2 hours to prepare with masa, chicken, and vegetables. The flavor is hearty with spices that blend well with the soft corn dough. It’s filling and satisfying, often enjoyed during gatherings. This dish has roots in Colombian comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes

A white plate filled with cooked sliced carrots and prunes, with a fork on the side.
My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes cooks for about 1.5 hours using carrots, honey, and dried fruits. It tastes sweet and savory with a soft, tender texture. The warmth of the spices makes it feel like a cozy classic. This dish carries a sense of family history.
Get the Recipe: My Grandma's Russian Jewish Carrot Tzimmes

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Overhead view of apple pie with apples.
Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie takes about 1.5 hours with apples, sugar, and cinnamon. The crust is flaky, and the filling is sweet with a hint of tartness. It’s a simple dessert that feels familiar and satisfying. This pie has been a go-to for generations.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Ajiaco Recipe

Bowl of chicken Ajiaco soup.
Ajiaco Recipe. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Ajiaco Recipe needs around 2 hours, using chicken, potatoes, corn, and herbs. The soup is thick and hearty with a mild, comforting flavor. It’s perfect for cold days when you want something filling. This Colombian classic is both simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Recipe

My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

A delightful slice of carrot cake with a dollop of whipped cream graces a decorative black and white plate. A fork rests invitingly on the cake while a white and blue cup peeks from the background, almost like the perfect ending to a recipe for an unforgettable carrot casserole.
My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

My Grandmother's Carrot Casserole takes about 1 hour to make with carrots, breadcrumbs, and cream. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet taste. This casserole is warm and comforting, good as a side or main. It’s a recipe passed down through generations.
Get the Recipe: My Grandmother's Recipe for Carrot Casserole

German Roasted Cauliflower With Curry Cashew Crust

A bowl of cauliflower gratin topped with nuts and herbs.
German Roasted Cauliflower With Curry Cashew Crust. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

German Roasted Cauliflower with Curry Cashew Crust cooks in about 45 minutes, with cauliflower, curry powder, and cashews. The flavor is savory with a subtle spice from the curry. It’s a crunchy, satisfying side dish. This recipe blends simple ingredients with bold seasoning.
Get the Recipe: German Roasted Cauliflower With Curry Cashew Crust

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

A plate of chicken stir-fry with sliced carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, garnished with cilantro and almond slices. A fork rests on the plate, and a yellow cloth is visible in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers takes roughly 30 minutes using chicken, bell peppers, and spices. The dish is juicy and flavorful with tender chicken and soft vegetables. It’s quick to make and hearty enough for any meal. This recipe works well when you want comfort without wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers

Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah)

Matzo brei on two plates with parsely.
Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah). Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Classic Matzo Brei cooks in 15 minutes using matzah, eggs, and butter. It tastes mild and savory with a slightly crispy texture. This dish is a staple for many during Passover. It’s quick, easy, and fills you up fast.
Get the Recipe: Classic Matzo Brei Recipe (Eggy Fried Matzah)

Pasulj Serbian White Bean Soup

A white bowl of soup with a spoon and basil.
Pasulj Serbian White Bean Soup. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pasulj Serbian White Bean Soup takes about 2 hours with white beans, smoked meats, and paprika. The soup is thick and smoky with a rich, hearty flavor. It’s filling and warming on cold days. This recipe is a classic comfort food in Serbian kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Pasulj Serbian White Bean Soup

Jerusalem Kugel

Jerusalem Kugel. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Jerusalem Kugel cooks for about 1.5 hours and combines noodles, sugar, and spices. It tastes sweet with a hint of cinnamon and a soft, noodle texture. This kugel is a traditional side dish for holidays and family dinners. It holds a comforting, familiar flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jerusalem Kugel

Traditional Colombian Patacones (Fried Green Plantains)

Traditional Colombian Patacones (Fried Green Plantains). Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Traditional Colombian Patacones take about 30 minutes with green plantains and oil. They are crispy on the outside and soft inside with a mild, slightly sweet taste. These fried plantains are a popular side dish or snack. They bring a simple, tasty crunch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Traditional Colombian Patacones (Fried Green Plantains)

Corn Fritters

A stack of fried corncakes topped with sour cream, and green onions.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Corn Fritters cook in about 20 minutes using corn, flour, and eggs. They are crispy and slightly sweet with a soft inside. This side dish is quick and satisfying. It’s a classic way to enjoy fresh or canned corn.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Raspberry Chiffon Cake

Raspberry cake on a white stand with plates and napkins.
Raspberry Chiffon Cake. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Raspberry Chiffon Cake takes about 1.5 hours with eggs, sugar, and fresh raspberries. The cake is light and airy with a mild sweetness from the berries. It’s a nostalgic dessert that feels soft and moist. This cake is a gentle, classic treat.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Chiffon Cake

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Salisbury Steak on a bed of mashed potatoes.
Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms cooks in about 45 minutes with ground beef, mushrooms, and gravy. It’s savory and tender with a rich mushroom sauce. This dish works well as a hearty dinner. It’s a simple, old-school comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak with Mushrooms

Lime Jello Salad

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lime Jello Salad takes about 20 minutes and uses lime gelatin, canned fruit, and whipped topping. It tastes sweet and tangy with a light, jiggly texture. This salad is easy to make and refreshing. It’s a vintage side that adds color and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Mini Hummingbird Cakes

Three mini hummingbird cake on a white plate.
Mini Hummingbird Cakes. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Mini Hummingbird Cakes take around 1 hour to prepare with bananas, pineapple, and spices. They’re moist and sweet with a mild tropical fruit flavor. These small cakes are a nostalgic dessert. They bring a homey feel to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hummingbird Cakes

Cheddar Cheese Beer Soup

A bowl of cheese soup with crackers on a plate.
Cheddar Cheese Beer Soup. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Cheddar Cheese Beer Soup cooks in about 40 minutes with cheddar, beer, and cream. It’s rich, cheesy, and slightly tangy with a smooth texture. This soup is filling and great for colder days. It’s a classic combination of beer and cheese flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Cheese Beer Soup

Nanna's Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks.
Nanna's Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nanna’s Apple Cake takes about 1 hour and uses apples, cinnamon, and sugar. The cake is moist with a gentle sweetness and tender crumb. It’s a simple, comforting dessert. This recipe has been passed down through generations.
Get the Recipe: Nanna's Apple Cake

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A bowl of red pepper and tomato soup next to a plate of bread and a spoon.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup takes about 30 minutes with fresh tomatoes, red peppers, and herbs. The soup is smooth, mildly sweet, and slightly smoky. It’s light but satisfying, perfect for lunch or dinner. This soup is a classic blend of fresh flavors.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew

Organ Meat Stew with parsley garnish.
Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Grandma’s Hearty Offal Stew takes around 3 hours using organ meats, vegetables, and spices. The stew is rich and savory with a deep flavor from the slow cooking. It’s filling and warming on cold days. This recipe is a traditional dish that has lasted for years.
Get the Recipe: Grandma's Hearty Offal Stew

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About Ksenia

Welcome to At The Immigrant's Table! I blend my immigrant roots with modern diets, crafting recipes that take you on a global kitchen adventure. As a food blogger and photographer, I'm dedicated to making international cuisine both healthy and accessible. Let's embark on a culinary journey that bridges cultures and introduces a world of flavors right into your home. Read more...

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