Maconochie

Maconochie

A tin of Maconochie

Maconochie was a type of stew that was commonly issued as a ration to British soldiers during the First World War. It was named after the company that produced it, Maconochie Brothers, which was based in Aberdeen, Scotland. The stew was canned and consisted of a mixture of sliced turnips, carrots, potatoes, and beef in a thin broth.

History

Maconochie was introduced as a military ration in the late 19th century and became widely used during the Boer War and World War I. The convenience of canned food made it a practical choice for feeding soldiers in the field. However, the quality and taste of Maconochie were often criticized by the soldiers who consumed it.

Composition

The typical ingredients of Maconochie included:

• Turnips
• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Beef

These ingredients were cooked together in a thin broth and canned for preservation. The stew was designed to be a hearty meal that could sustain soldiers during long campaigns.

Reception

While Maconochie was intended to be a nutritious and filling meal, it was often met with disdain by the soldiers who ate it. The stew was described as "a man-killer" and "a war crime" by some due to its unappetizing taste and texture. Soldiers often complained that the vegetables were undercooked and the meat was tough.

Legacy

Despite its poor reputation, Maconochie remains a notable part of military history. It is often referenced in discussions about military rations and the challenges of feeding soldiers during wartime. The name "Maconochie" has become synonymous with unpalatable military food in British culture.

Related pages

• Military ration
• World War I
• Canned food