Reminiscent of the Victorian era, but filled with present-day recipes, The Kirby House Cookbook dishes up an offering for both the historian and cook.
The book offers over 200 recipes in use at The Kirby House restaurant today, including their famous “Coconut Walnut Bread”, “Miss Ellie’s Carrot Cake” and “Celery Seed Dressing”. Intermingled within the recipe text are tips providing educational information to the novice plus “A Special Touch” inserts, throughout this section, providing elegant and unique entertaining ideas. Those interested in history can trace the building of the Kirby house from 1885 to present day, as well as take a glimpse at life and dining during the Victorian era. Readers will have a chance to meet the Thomas Kirby family and discover what brought them to Abilene; what influence they had on the Victorian community of Abilene, Kansas and how they were affected by the time in which they lived. Other interesting tidbits include a menu from the historic “Drovers Cottage,” circa 1871, in addition to typical menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the Victorian era and, a chronology of some of the foods, food producers and advertising technique unique to that time period.