Ever wondered what happened to the foods that once dominated our plates and parties? It’s shocking how many beloved dishes have vanished from our tables, leaving behind only memories and a few nostalgic smiles. Food trends are like fashion—they come, they go, and sometimes they never return. But what’s truly fascinating is how these forgotten flavors can transport us back to a specific time and place. Recently, we asked the BuzzFeed Community to dig deep into their culinary memories and share the food trends that have seemingly disappeared into the ether. The responses? Absolutely priceless. Get ready to take a trip down memory lane, because these forgotten gems are about to stir up some serious nostalgia.
1. Chicken Cordon Bleu: A Gourmet Ghost
Once a staple in both restaurants and freezer aisles, Chicken Cordon Bleu has all but vanished. One contributor fondly remembered a version stuffed with broccoli, though its official name remains a mystery. Both variations have faded into obscurity, leaving us to wonder: why did such a sophisticated dish disappear?
2. Milk Toast: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Here’s a controversial one: milk toast. Yes, you read that right. A buttered slice of toast drenched in warm milk. One anonymous contributor recalled their mom making this when they were sick—soft, soothing, and surprisingly delicious. But let’s be honest, it sounds like something out of a 1950s cookbook. Would you give it a try?
3. Tapioca Pudding: The Lost Dessert
Tapioca pudding was once a dessert darling, but today it’s nearly impossible to find. One 77-year-old from Texas lamented its disappearance, while another contributor reminisced about chocolate tapioca pudding, despite the tedious stirring required. Is this a dessert worth reviving, or should it stay in the past?
4. Pinwheel Sandwiches: A Party Favorite No More
Remember pinwheel sandwiches? These bite-sized rolls of delight were everywhere in the ’90s, but now they’re a rare sight. One Canadian contributor recalled their mom buying them from a local grocery store, only to find them gone years later. Have you spotted them recently, or are they a relic of the past?
5. Deviled Eggs: A Classic in Decline?
Deviled eggs are still around, but their popularity has waned. One contributor shared their grandmother’s simple recipe, insisting that the egg should be the star. But with so many modern twists on this classic, is the traditional version losing its charm?
6. Braised Steak and Onion from a Tin: Camping’s Lost Treasure
Once a camping trip essential, braised steak and onion from a tin now elicits a “yuck” from many. How did this once-beloved meal fall so far out of favor? Is it a case of evolving tastes, or did we just outgrow canned food?
7. Loaded Baked Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Loaded baked potatoes were the ultimate customizable meal, piled high with cheese, bacon, and mushrooms. But why have they been replaced by loaded mashed potatoes? Is it just nostalgia, or were baked potatoes truly superior?
8. Tutti-Frutti and Panda Pops: A Blast from the ’90s
Tutti-frutti flavored treats, especially in that vibrant sunset orange, were a ’90s sensation. And who could forget Crunchables fish fingers? One contributor still dreams about the salt and vinegar variety. But why did these colorful, crunchy delights disappear? Is it time for a comeback?
9. Fish Sticks and Hot Dogs in Crescent Rolls: A ’90s Staple
Fish sticks and hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls were a childhood favorite for many. But today, they’re rarely mentioned. Did we simply grow out of this combo, or is it a forgotten gem worth revisiting?
10. Monday Hash: A Leftover Masterpiece
Using Sunday’s leftover roast beef and potatoes, one contributor’s mom created a Monday hash that was pure comfort food. But with fewer families cooking large Sunday roasts, has this dish lost its place at the table?
11. Party Rye Pizza Snacks: A Wisconsin Delight
Party rye pizza snacks—tiny slices of rye bread topped with sausage, Velveeta, ketchup, and oregano—were a hit in one Wisconsin household. But why haven’t these bite-sized wonders caught on nationwide?
12. Chex Mix and Watergate Salad: Home Ec Classics
Chex snack mix, lollipop cookies, and Watergate salad were staples of home economics classes. But as cooking trends shift, have these recipes been left behind? Is there still a place for these retro treats in modern kitchens?
13. Meatloaf with Stuffing: A Thanksgiving Hack
One contributor’s mom turned meatloaf into a weekly meal by adding a layer of stuffing—a genius budget-friendly hack. But why hasn’t this creative twist become more popular?
14. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Old-Fashioned but Delicious
Stuffed bell peppers may be old-fashioned, but they’re still a labor of love. Why don’t we see them on menus anymore? Is it too much work, or have we simply moved on?
15. Swiss Steak: A Divisive Dish
Swiss steak was a childhood staple for some, though not always a favorite. Its disappearance raises the question: do we miss it, or are we better off without it?
16. Canned Onion Soup: A Recipe Roadblock
Canned onion soup has been discontinued, leaving one contributor unable to make five cherished recipes. Is this a sign that we’re moving away from canned goods, or just a casualty of changing tastes?
17. Deviled Ham Sandwiches: A Forgotten Delight
Deviled ham with mayonnaise and chopped hard-boiled egg was a sandwich favorite. But why have these savory spreads fallen out of favor? Is it time to bring them back?
18. Seven Layer Salad: A Party Classic
Seven layer salad was a party showstopper, but it’s rarely seen today. Did its complexity lead to its decline, or is it just waiting for a revival?
19. Brazilian Coconut Pudding: A Lost Tropical Treat
Brazilian coconut pudding with canned plums was a unique dessert that’s now hard to find. Is this a cultural dish that’s been overlooked, or is it a relic of a bygone era?
20. Bread Bowls: A Hearty Trend
Bread bowls were a fun way to serve soup, but they’ve largely disappeared. Is it because they’re too messy, or have we simply moved on to more practical options?
21. Worms in Dirt: A Kid’s Dream Dessert
‘Worms in dirt’—chocolate pudding topped with crushed cookies and gummy worms—was a childhood favorite. But why don’t we see this playful dessert anymore? Is it too kitschy for modern tastes?
22. Apple Pie with Ritz Crackers: A Crunchy Twist
Apple pie made with Ritz crackers was a surprising hit in the past. But why hasn’t this crunchy twist caught on? Is it too unconventional, or just forgotten?
23. Chicken Croquettes: A Fried Favorite
Chicken croquettes with gravy were a comforting dish, but they’ve largely disappeared. Is this a case of evolving culinary preferences, or is there still a place for these fried rolls?
Now It’s Your Turn!
People over 35, what food trend from your childhood has vanished without a trace? Share your memories in the comments—we want to hear your stories! And don’t forget to check out BuzzFeed Canada on TikTok and Instagram for more nostalgic content.
Final Thought: Food trends may come and go, but the memories they leave behind are timeless. Which of these forgotten dishes would you bring back, and which should stay in the past? Let the debate begin!
