If you've ever been plagued with the pressing question of what democrats ate in 1971, there is a book for you: Democratic Cookery
While many delectable dinner ideas await you in this book (Elva's Veal Roast from Mr.s Lawrence O'brien, wife of chairman, Democratic National Committee; Sweet and Sour Spaghetti from Mrs. David Ceccarelli, wife of Washington State Representative), I skipped right to the desserts.
But what to make first?
The goof-proof fudge? The Sea Foam Candy? TheCapirodata (a white-bread pudding bake from Della Montoya, wife of Joseph M. Montoya, Senator from New Mexico)?
Or perhaps, being a modern woman, I should go for the straightforward "Dessert", which includes detailed instructions on properly defrosting and displaying a Sara Lee Poundcake?
After much debate, I decided to go with the Century 21 Cookies, which sounded like a taste for a brave new (democratic) world. This recipe came from Betty Merril, wife of John Merrill, Washington State Representative. And I think that regardless of political affiliation, most will agree: these cookies are simple to make, pleasing to the palate, and delightful with milk.
Of course, if you want to get political with your cookies, there's this...
Century 21 Cookies
- 1/2 cup margarine or shortening (or, if you're feeling very 2012, butter)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg, unbeaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Procedure
Cream well shortening, sugar and egg. Sift together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. Add vanilla. Roll pieces the size of a walnut into balls and place on greased tin. Flatten each ball with the bottom of a drinking glass which has been buttered and dipped frequently in granulated sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Makes 3-4 dozen cookies.