This is a vintage cast iron cooking cookbook from 1969, published in Concord, California by Nitty Gritty Productions. It’s a practical, old-school guide to getting the most from cast iron—plus recipes built around classic pieces like the Dutch oven, skillet, griddle, and even a muffin pan.
Along the way, it includes “how to season” and “how to reseason” guidance, so it’s useful even if you’re just restoring a thrifted pan. Photo-verified, complete, and ready to cook (or collect).
Quick Specs
-
Item Type: Paperback cookbook
-
Size: 8 × 5 × 1 in
-
Material: Paper (softcover)
-
Color: Red/black cover; cream interior pages
-
Origin or Maker: Nitty Gritty Productions (Nitty Gritty Books), Concord, California
-
Year or Era: 1969 (copyright)
-
GENRE: Vintage Cookbook; Cast Iron Cooking
-
Language / Pages: English / 178 pages (provided)
-
Identifiers: ISBN 0-911954-40-X
Edition & Features
-
Illustrations/Maps/Plates: Illustrated (credit: Craig Torlucci); black-and-white artwork shown in photos
Condition Grade: Good
Notes: Noticeable cover wear, including sticker wear/residue on the front cover and edge/corner rubbing. A page and edges show age toning. Interior pages shown look readable and intact.
- See all photos for detail—sold as pictured.
Condition Grade Key
Near Fine: minimal wear; tight; clean.
Very Good: light wear; clean text; minor flaws.
Good: noticeable wear; sound reading copy; some marks.
Fair: heavy wear; complete but worn; priced accordingly.
About the Author Hester Harris
Hester Harris is credited as the author of Cast Iron Cookbook (1969), published by Nitty Gritty Productions in Concord, California, with illustrations by Craig Torlucci.
If you love cookware that earns its keep, this book belongs near your stove.
Disclaimer
The vintage items I share with you have been previously owned and loved and may show some wear. Please use the pictures as a guide.
While I do my best to capture colors accurately, your monitor or device screen may display colors slightly differently from the actual item.
Care & Handling: Handle with clean, dry hands. Store upright, out of direct sunlight, at about 68°F and 40–50% relative humidity. Avoid damp areas and extreme temperature swings.
Please note: If you have any questions or need more photos, ask.
About Reading Vintage
At Reading Vintage, I curate one-of-a-kind treasures for book lovers, decorators, and collectors—including vintage books, retro bookends, and charming collectible pieces.
