members recipes

The origin of the Seven Layer Dinner or sometimes called Ship Wreck is questionable. However, some years ago, Newfoundlanders and Labradoreans who lived in isolated communities were at times faced with the scarcity of food due to harsh winters and the unavailability of supermarkets in their area. As the old saying goes “we’re shipwrecked” was used when cupboards and larders were pretty-well empty. Speaking with some of the older folks, they do remember the Seven Layer Dinner dish on occasion was referred to “Shipwrecked.” Anyone I spoke with regarding this recipe had a different version, yet, all had the basics; potato, onion and carrots or parsnips. As far as meats go, when and if they had any, used chicken, beef/pork or any type of wild game, some used salt cod. The modern version of this recipe is rather simple and delicious; potatoes, rice, onions, carrot, canned green peas, canned tomato soup, breakfast sausages or ground pork/beef and salt/pepper for seasoning. If you have any information or stories regarding this dish, please contact me at www.saltjunk.com

Ingredients
4 lg potatoes (sliced thin)
4 carrots (diced thin)
2 lg onions (sliced thin)
1/2 cup uncooked rice
1 lg can (16 oz) green peas with liquid
1 can condensed tomato soup
1 lb pork sausage (or ground pork) Salt & pepper to taste

Method
In a skillet, med-heat, fry sliced onion until tender (do not brown). Also, fry sausage until golden brown. Set aside.

Peel potatoes, onions and carrots. Cut into thin slices – 1/8” thick.

In a deep greased casserole dish, evenly layer potatoes, cooked onions and carrots (season each layer with salt and pepper). Sprinkle uncooked rice over vegetables. Add green peas (including liquid) and arrange the pork sausage on top. Dilute tomato soup with a can of water and pour over entire mixture. Bake covered at 350 degrees F. for 1 hour; remove cover and continue baking until done (approx 30 minutes). Let set for 10-15 minutes prior to serving. Garnish with pickled beets, mustard pickles and onions. Excellent with fresh home-made bread and a good cup of steeped tea.

Healthy Eating:

Use lean ground chicken, turkey or fresh cod fillets
Use other spices for taste