Rinktum Ditty: A Timeless Taste of New England Comfort

There’s a certain magic in recipes that whisper tales of bygone kitchens, of simple ingredients transformed into soul-warming delights. Rinktum Ditty, a gem unearthed from the pages of the 1947 US Regional Cookbook by the Chicago Culinary Arts Institute, is precisely one of those treasures. I remember the first time I encountered this dish; it was on a blustery autumn evening, a time when the scent of cinnamon and woodsmoke filled the air, and a craving for something deeply comforting settled in. This dish, with its humble origins and unpretentious name, delivered exactly that – a taste of home, a hug in a bowl, and a delicious reminder that some culinary traditions are simply too good to fade away.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe is delightfully straightforward, requiring just a handful of common pantry staples.

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, chopped finely
• 2 cups cooked tomatoes (canned whole peeled or crushed tomatoes are perfectly acceptable and convenient)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• ½ lb American cheese, grated
• 1 egg, beaten

Equipment Needed

For this uncomplicated yet rewarding dish, you won’t need any specialized equipment.

• Medium saucepan
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for the cheese

Instructions

The beauty of Rinktum Ditty lies in its simplicity and speed. It comes together in a flash, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a quick accompaniment to another dish.

1. Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once the butter has melted and is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. It’s important to cook the onion gently; you want it to soften and sweeten, but not to brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Next, stir in the cooked tomatoes. If you’re using canned whole peeled tomatoes, give them a quick mash with your spoon or a fork as you add them.
4. Season the tomato mixture with salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Bring the tomato mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to heat thoroughly. This means letting it bubble gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the grated American cheese to the pot. Stir constantly as the cheese melts into the tomato mixture. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and smoothly incorporated, creating a creamy, luxurious texture. This step is crucial for achieving the signature Rinktum Ditty creaminess.
7. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg. This is a key step for binding and enriching the mixture.
8. Now, it’s time to temper the egg. Slowly add the beaten egg to the warm tomato and cheese mixture, stirring constantly. The constant stirring is essential to prevent the egg from scrambling.
9. Continue to stir the mixture constantly for about one minute more after adding the egg. This allows the egg to cook gently and thicken the Rinktum Ditty without becoming lumpy.
10. Once the minute is up, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While Rinktum Ditty is wonderfully simple, a few culinary nuances can elevate its preparation and enjoyment.

• Onion Softening: The key to the onion is to cook it until soft and translucent, but not brown. This means using medium-low heat and patient stirring. Browning the onion will impart a different, more assertive flavor that isn’t characteristic of the classic Rinktum Ditty.
• Tomato Quality: While canned tomatoes are perfectly fine and historically accurate, using good quality canned crushed or diced tomatoes will yield a smoother texture. If using whole peeled tomatoes, ensure they are well-mashed before adding to the pan.
• Cheese Choice: American cheese is specified, and it’s chosen for its excellent melting properties and mild, familiar flavor. If you’re adventurous, you could experiment with a small amount of a good melting cheddar or Monterey Jack alongside the American cheese, but stick primarily to American for authenticity. Grating your own cheese from a block will always yield a superior melt compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Egg Tempering: The technique of slowly adding the beaten egg while stirring constantly is a fundamental culinary skill that ensures a smooth, silky sauce. If the mixture seems too hot when you add the egg, you can remove the pan from the heat entirely for a moment before whisking it in.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Rinktum Ditty is traditionally served on hot buttered toast, a classic and deeply satisfying preparation that highlights its rich, savory nature. The slightly crisp toast provides a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy topping.

• To Serve: Toast slices of your favorite bread until golden brown. Lightly butter the toast while it’s still warm. Spoon a generous portion of the prepared Rinktum Ditty over the buttered toast immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the Rinktum Ditty in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, being sure to stir halfway through the heating process. If the mixture seems a bit thick after refrigeration, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or water to loosen it. It can also be served cold, directly from the refrigerator, for a different, perhaps more appetizer-style experience.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for Rinktum Ditty, based on the standard serving size and ingredients.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	264 kcal	13%
Total Fat	18.2 g	23%
Saturated Fat	11.0 g	55%
Cholesterol	96.8 mg	32%
Sodium	1172.6 mg	51%
Total Carbohydrate	12.3 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1.4 g	5%
Sugars	5.3 g	11%
Protein	13.7 g	27%

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Variations & Substitutions

While the original recipe is wonderfully satisfying as is, culinary creativity can lead to delightful adaptations.

• Vegetarian Plus: For a heartier vegetarian main, consider serving Rinktum Ditty over baked potatoes, steamed rice, or alongside a simple green salad.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce added along with the salt and pepper can provide a pleasant warmth.
• Herbal Notes: A tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives stirred in at the very end of cooking can add a touch of freshness and color.
• Cheese Exploration: While American cheese is classic, a blend of American and sharp cheddar can add a bit more depth of flavor. Just ensure at least half is American cheese for optimal meltability.

FAQs

Q: What exactly is “Rinktum Ditty”?
A: Rinktum Ditty is a classic New England comfort food, often described as a creamy tomato and cheese mixture, traditionally served on toast. Its exact origins are somewhat charmingly obscure, adding to its nostalgic appeal.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can! You would need about 2 cups of cooked fresh tomatoes. This would involve simmering ripe fresh tomatoes until they break down and reduce, much like you would with canned tomatoes. It may require a bit more cooking time to achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Why is the egg added at the end?
A: The egg is added at the end and tempered in to enrich the sauce and help bind the ingredients together, creating a smoother, creamier texture without the need for flour or cream. Stirring constantly ensures the egg cooks gently and doesn’t curdle.

Q: Is Rinktum Ditty a soup or a sauce?
A: It straddles the line between the two. It’s thicker than a typical soup but not as dense as a pasta sauce. Its consistency makes it perfect for spooning over toast.

Q: Can I make Rinktum Ditty ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring well, and serve over freshly buttered toast.

Final Thoughts

Rinktum Ditty is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary embrace from a simpler time. It reminds us that deliciousness doesn’t require complexity or exotic ingredients. It’s a testament to the power of humble staples, thoughtfully combined. This dish is a perfect answer to those “what’s for dinner?” moments when you crave something satisfying and familiar. So, the next time you find yourself yearning for a taste of comforting nostalgia, or simply a quick, savory delight, give Rinktum Ditty a try. I suspect it might just become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too.