Classic Pepper Sandwich Filling (VRP 001)

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This Classic Pepper Sandwich Filling is a delicious relic from a time when “mango” didn’t refer to the tropical fruit, but instead to peppers. This unique and flavorful recipe was common in certain parts of the Midwest and Southern United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. With a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor profile, this pepper-based sandwich filling is made by combining ground peppers, sugar, vinegar, and mustard, cooked together for 20 minutes. The end result is a tasty spread that can be used on sandwiches, crackers, or alongside meats and cheeses. The recipe also calls for sealing the filling with paraffin, a traditional preservation method, which can be substituted with modern canning techniques today.

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Sandwich Filling

Food History

The use of the term “mango” to describe peppers has an interesting origin in American culinary history. In the 1700s, when pickling and preserving were essential for extending the life of fruits and vegetables, the word “mango” was borrowed from the Indian practice of pickling the tropical mango fruit. Over time, in parts of the U.S.—especially in states like Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana—the term started being applied to any pickled fruit or vegetable, including bell peppers.

Bell peppers, often stuffed or pickled, became a staple of American households, and the term “mango” stuck for several generations. By the 20th century, this practice largely disappeared as the term mango returned to its original meaning: the tropical fruit. However, recipes like this one are a fascinating glimpse into the rich and sometimes quirky history of American food traditions.

This recipe reflects not just the unique terminology of the time, but also the practice of food preservation before modern refrigeration. In the days before refrigerators, families used methods like pickling and paraffin sealing to keep their food edible for longer periods. Paraffin, a wax, would be poured over the top of the jars to create an airtight seal, protecting the contents from spoilage.

Timeline

• 1500s: Bell peppers are brought to Europe and later introduced to the Americas by explorers.
• 1700s: The term “mango” starts being used in parts of the United States to refer to pickled or stuffed peppers.
• Mid-1800s: Bell peppers become widely grown in the U.S., especially in the Midwest.
• Late 1800s to early 1900s: Recipes for pickled peppers and fillings like this one become common in American cookbooks.
• 20th Century: The use of “mango” to refer to peppers fades, replaced by the term we know today.

Recipe Discussion

This Classic Pepper Sandwich Filling recipe is both simple and flavorful. It starts with grinding 18 peppers, which would likely have been bell peppers or a similar type. The peppers are then boiled together with sugar, vinegar, salt, butter, flour, and dry mustard. The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly savory spread that works well as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for crackers.

The vinegar and sugar work together to balance the sharpness of the peppers, while the flour helps thicken the mixture into a more spreadable consistency. The butter adds a bit of richness to the flavor, and the mustard introduces a subtle spicy note that complements the peppers’ natural sweetness.

One key point to note is that the recipe originally instructs you to seal the jars with paraffin wax. This was a common method used in the early to mid-20th century to preserve foods. Paraffin, however, has fallen out of favor due to concerns about its effectiveness in creating a lasting seal. Cracks can form in the wax, which can let in air and spoil the food.

Today, modern canning methods, such as water bath canning, are much safer and more effective. Instead of using paraffin, you can fill sterilized jars with the hot mixture, leaving about a half-inch of space at the top, and process the jars in boiling water for about 10 minutes. This will create a vacuum seal, ensuring the filling stays fresh for much longer.

Preparation Tips

Here are some tips to help ensure your pepper sandwich filling turns out perfectly:

• Use fresh peppers: For the best flavor, use fresh, firm peppers. Green bell peppers work well for a more savory flavor, but you can mix in red, yellow, or orange peppers for a bit of sweetness.
• Grind evenly: If you don’t have a food processor, use a hand grinder or finely chop the peppers. This ensures the spread has a smooth, even texture.
• Choose the right vinegar: White vinegar is standard in this recipe, but apple cider vinegar can add a slightly more complex, fruity flavor.
• Thicken properly: The flour helps thicken the mixture as it boils, but if you’re gluten-free, you can substitute cornstarch. Just dissolve it in water before adding to prevent lumps.
• Sterilize your jars: Before filling your jars and lids, boil them in water for at least 10 minutes. This helps prevent spoilage and extends the shelf life of your filling.
• Modern canning method: Instead of paraffin, opt for water bath canning for a more reliable seal and longer preservation time.

Recommended Kitchen Products

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• Food Processor: A good food processor will make grinding the peppers quick and easy, ensuring a consistent texture for your spread.
• Canning Jars: Use high-quality Mason jars with lids designed for canning. These jars are durable and provide a strong, airtight seal when processed properly.
• Canning Kit: A basic canning kit, including a jar lifter and funnel, makes the process of sterilizing and sealing jars much simpler and safer.

Serving Suggestions

This pepper sandwich filling can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

• On Sandwiches: Spread it generously on your favorite sandwich bread with deli meats or cheeses for a tangy, flavorful kick.
• Cracker Topping: Use it as a topping for crackers or crostini for a quick snack or appetizer.
• With Cheese: Pair it with a mild cheese like Brie or goat cheese for a delicious, savory-sweet contrast.
• Grilled Cheese: Add a spoonful to a grilled cheese sandwich before cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Charcuterie Board: Serve as part of a charcuterie board alongside meats, cheeses, and pickles for a vintage touch.

A Tangy Treat for Any Occasion

This Classic Pepper Sandwich Filling is a nostalgic recipe that captures the ingenuity of vintage cooking. Whether you’re interested in historical American food traditions or simply looking for a new spread to try, this recipe offers a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that will elevate your sandwiches and snacks. It’s a simple recipe with timeless appeal, perfect for those who appreciate the flavors of the past while still enjoying them in modern ways.

Explore the Rich History of Vintage Recipe Box 001

Vintage Recipe Box 001 is part of a remarkable collection of eight recipe boxes from the estate of Goldie Ree Lewis Sowers (1889-1987). This box, along with the others, was discovered at an estate sale in Shelby, Ohio, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions of Goldie’s life. Born in Morrow County, Ohio, and living a full 98 years, Goldie’s recipes reflect decades of home cooking, with contributions from friends and family. Each recipe card tells a story of the enjoyed meals, from savory main dishes to sweet desserts.

Click here to explore all Vintage Recipe Box 001 recipes and learn more about Goldie’s collection.

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