Types of hardbread (not just hardtack)

Dakota Widowmaker · September 20, 2007, 11:58:50 PM

I know that bread was not always baked onsite, but, ahead of time and eaten along the way as folks headed out west.

I have heard that there were recipes for "hardbread" that was meant more to be like what we call a "hardroll" or cracker or pretzel.

Does this ring a bell with anyone?

Also, does anyone know if the bents cookie factory hardtack is edible?

Dr. Bob · September 21, 2007, 01:44:30 AM

Howdy DW,

You might search the Cosie's Corner board on this topic.

River City John · September 21, 2007, 06:53:42 AM

Quote from: Dakota Widowmaker on September 20, 2007, 11:58:50 PM
I know that bread was not always baked onsite, but, ahead of time and eaten along the way as folks headed out west.

I have heard that there were recipes for "hardbread" that was meant more to be like what we call a "hardroll" or cracker or pretzel.

Does this ring a bell with anyone?

Also, does anyone know if the bents cookie factory hardtack is edible?

As to Bent's hardtack, it is very edible. We just got through with the GAF Muster where on one stage Bent's hardtack was served to each shooter as a stage prop to be carried in the mouth while they shot the stage. I heard a lot of comments of surprise in how it tasted better than they expected and was easier to chew than what history has given a reputation.
RCJ

Pitspitr · September 21, 2007, 11:18:44 AM

Quote from: River City John on September 21, 2007, 06:53:42 AM
As to Bent's hardtack, it is very edible. We just got through with the GAF Muster where on one stage Bent's hardtack was served to each shooter as a stage prop to be carried in the mouth while they shot the stage. I heard a lot of comments of surprise in how it tasted better than they expected and was easier to chew than what history has given a reputation.
RCJ

Yes, but it makes a lousy recoil pad for the mouth

When my Rolling Block hit the end of the hardtack I had to make sure all my teeth were still attached.

You write great stages John, and I loved this one. Sure was disapointed you managed to sneak away before I had a chance to say good-bye

Delmonico · September 21, 2007, 12:17:35 PM

I've got some of those recipies for differnt of the hard breads, I will have to do some digging, but should be able to come up with some by early next week when I have some time off work.

Buffalow Red · September 21, 2007, 02:27:28 PM

I WOOD LIKE TO SEE THE RECIPIES AS IM SURE SEVERAL OTHERS
THANKS

Delmonico · September 21, 2007, 03:44:59 PM

Right off the top of my head they often took plain old homemade bread, sliced it and dried it. Won't keep as well as hardtack, but will keep for weeks although it will break up worse if roughly handled, one problem with any of the slightly leaven hard bread. One reason hardtack was used so much, that and no lard to turn rancid on you after a few months.

River City John · September 21, 2007, 07:27:18 PM

Quote from: Pitspitr on September 21, 2007, 11:18:44 AM

Sure was disapointed you managed to sneak away before I had a chance to say good-bye

Don't worry, Colonel, you're going to have to put up with me at next year's Muster! Wouldn't miss it for anything. And I will be happy to dream up some stage contributions per your request.
RCJ

Pitspitr · September 21, 2007, 11:24:56 PM

Quote from: River City John on September 21, 2007, 07:27:18 PM
Don't worry, Colonel, you're going to have to put up with me at next year's Muster! Wouldn't miss it for anything. And I will be happy to dream up some stage contributions per your request.
RCJ

Good! Actually that was one of the things I was trying to catch up with you to talk about.