Southwestern Pennsylvania Cookbook Combines History and Childhood Favorites

Washington County native Douglas Robinson's historical cookbook hits home to Pittsburghers and southwestern Pennsylvanians.

“I Grew Up in Southwestern Pennsylvania Cookbook” is a product of Robinson’s childhood, his book-sale travels, his book-publishing experience, and simply knowing it was “a good idea.”

The cookbook features historical facts, vintage photographs, the region’s slang word definitions as well as more than 200 recipes. Some recipes are Robinson’s own and others are from friends, family and local residents.

“I (originally) was just going to sell this on the side,” he said. “But, people have really reacted well to it.”

Robinson studied the region's history, so much so that the book almost became completely centered on interesting, local facts. He said he has favorite recipes "scattered throughout" the book, and one in particular, sauerkraut. 

"It seems like that's a lost food," he said. 

Of mostly German [Pennsylvania Dutch] heritage, he said his other go-to recipe—besides pierogies—is kielbasa and beer in the crockpot. 

"It comes out tasting sweet," he said. 

An entrepreneur of sorts and a lover of all things bound, Robinson also has written an e-Book, created audio books and has converted books to Kindle format.

The cookbook is available for purchase online at Amazon or www.igrewupinswpa.com.