Peanut Butter & more

Brazil Buzz

By Mary Lou Sartor

History of Peanut Butter and the rest is a piece of cake for the Suzie Homemaker within…

I am curious about so much that I use, especially the invention of things such as kitchen tools, new and old.

The history of certain foods is of interest to me as well. So, last week when I promised to bake for my sweet loving family, I delivered and added research from the cluttered aged stored in my noodle.

I learned the earliest reference to peanut butter could be traced back to Ancient Incas, who roasted peanuts into a paste. Modern peanut butter, its process of production, and the equipment used to make it can be traced to three inventors, according to the National Peanut Board.

In the U.S., Dr. John Kellogg Harvey (of cereal fame) invented a peanut butter version in a food paste or spread made of dry roasted peanuts. It commonly contained additional ingredients that modified the taste and texture. Such as salt, sweetness, and emulsifiers.

African American George Washington Carver, agriculturist chemist, deserved praise for his contribution to the history of the peanuts mashed into a paste, into delicious and filling.

The concoction did not make him rich because he did not believe in patenting his findings. He praised God for his gifts, and that was enough for him. He would say, “How can I sell my gifts to others?”

Peanut butter became popular in the military, first introduced at the St. Louis Fair in 1904.

Peanuts became integral to the Armed Forces’ rations in World War I and II.

A food critic called peanut butter the pate’ of Childhood. Indeed the creamy spread was mine back in the day, served on a piece of Tastee or Toastmaster white bread laced with a thin coat of oleo. Better than that, when my mother sent me to Ernie and Ona Muncie’s grocery store on

For a few items, Ashley Street would include peanut butter on the shortlist. I would have the jar opened before I reached home. In those days peanut oil rested on top of the spread and that pleased my taste buds. A little dab would stir me to blend in with the tip of my finger. It sure would give me a lift. It smoothed back nicely, and the lid looked fine. That became a happy memory. Today I rarely eat peanut butter. I stick to honey and preserves, served separately, of course.

Paul prefers creamy Peter Pan used in several ways. I usually receive a thumbs-up for my efforts to please Mr. Peanut. Cookies earn me two thumbs up!

Reach me by phone at 317-286-7352.