Hitlerszalonna

Hungarian wartime food

Hitlerszalonna

A block of Hitlerszalonna

Hitlerszalonna ("Hitler's bacon") is a type of fruit jam or fruit preserve that was popular in Hungary during World War II. Despite its name, it does not contain any meat. Instead, it is made from a mixture of fruit, sugar, and pectin, and was used as a substitute for more expensive or unavailable food items during the war.

History

The name "Hitlerszalonna" is believed to have originated during the Second World War when food shortages were common. The product was developed as a way to provide a nutritious and calorie-dense food that could be easily stored and transported. It was particularly popular among soldiers and civilians who needed a reliable source of energy.

Production

Hitlerszalonna is made by cooking down a variety of fruits, such as apples, plums, or pears, with sugar and pectin until it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. The mixture is then poured into molds and allowed to set, forming a solid block that can be sliced and eaten as needed. This method of preparation allowed for long-term storage without refrigeration, which was crucial during wartime.

Cultural Significance

In Hungary, Hitlerszalonna is remembered as a symbol of the hardships faced during the war. It is often mentioned in oral histories and memoirs of the period. Today, it is sometimes made as a novelty or for historical reenactments, but it is not commonly found in modern Hungarian cuisine.

Related pages

• World War II
• Hungarian cuisine
• Food preservation