Chicken Salad. Mrs. John Landon. Recipe

Chicken salad is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Mrs. John Landon's recipe for chicken salad is a delightful variation that combines the flavors of poultry, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing.

To begin, you will need white and choice dark meat from a cold boiled chicken or turkey. This mixture of meats adds a rich and flavorful dimension to the salad. Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Next, gather three-quarters of the same bulk of chopped celery or cabbage. Both of these vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and freshness to the salad. The choice between celery or cabbage is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or combine both for added texture and taste.

In addition to the celery or cabbage, a few cucumber pickles should be finely chopped and mixed in with the other ingredients. The pickles add a tangy and slightly sweet element to the salad, balancing out the flavors of the meat and vegetables.

Now, let's move on to the dressing. For the dressing, you will need the yolks of two hard-boiled eggs. Rub the yolks to a fine powder using a fork or a kitchen utensil. This step ensures a smooth and creamy dressing.

To the powdered egg yolks, add a teaspoonful of salt, pepper, and mustard each. These seasonings add a depth of flavor and a slight kick to the dressing. Additionally, add two teaspoonfuls of white sugar to balance out the tanginess of the vinegar.

Finally, add three teaspoonfuls of salad oil to the mixture. The oil acts as a base for the dressing, providing richness and a silky texture. It also helps to bind the ingredients together. For the final touch, add one-half cup of vinegar to the dressing to give it a tangy and acidic component.

Once the dressing is prepared, pour it over the chopped meat, celery or cabbage, and cucumber pickles. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well coated with the dressing. The creamy dressing will envelop the ingredients, infusing them with a delicious combination of flavors.

Mrs. John Landon's chicken salad is now ready to be enjoyed. This dish can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together even further. Serve it as a standalone salad or use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for crackers.

Fun fact: Chicken salad has a long and storied history. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 19th century. Its popularity grew rapidly, especially during the mid-20th century, when it became a staple dish for luncheons and tea parties. Today, chicken salad remains a beloved choice for picnics, potlucks, and gatherings of all kinds.

If you are looking to explore similar recipes, there are several variations of chicken salad that you can try. For instance, you can experiment with adding different fruits such as grapes or apples to add a touch of sweetness. Nuts like pecans or almonds can provide an additional crunch. Additionally, you can experiment with different dressings like mayonnaise-based dressings or yogurt-based dressings for a healthier twist.

Remember, chicken salad is a versatile dish that allows for creativity and personalization. Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this timeless classic and serve it proudly to your family and friends!