There’s no place in the world immune to change, but if there is one place that has remained true to itself, it’s Newfoundland and Labrador. And every now and then you come across a cookbook that, although written in the past, is relevant enough to carry on into the future.

For me, Fat-Back & Molasses is that kind of book. Edited by Ivan F. Jesperson, and first published in 1974, it consists of recipes and anecdotes submitted by women from all over the province.

In the preface, Jesperson writes, “as a clergyman… many doors of all denominations have been open to me… the white table cloth has always been placed with respect and the table set with friendliness.”

This book has found its way into more than 100,000 homes, many belonging to transplanted Newfoundlanders worldwide. Recipes like Fisherman’s Fresh Fish Stew sit alongside Flipper Pie. While some recipes call for moose, I wouldn’t hesitate substituting with beef. The desserts hearken back to church suppers and wedding socials—think of lemon sponge and jam-jams, along with Grandma’s soft gingerbread.

The anecdotes are both whimsical and wise. If you appreciate good, authentic food with a chuckle thrown in for good measure, this book won’t disappoint.