Libeled Lady

Jean Harlow and Spencer Tracy

While not quite equal to the sum of its parts (Jean Harlow + William Powell + Myrna Loy + Spencer Tracy), Libeled Lady is amusing enough to while away a lazy afternoon, especially if you like 1930s comedies (and I’m assuming you do). It all starts when the newspaper Tracy edits runs a story about socialite Loy that doesn’t happen to be true. She threatens to sue for libel, so Tracy calls in Powell to deal with her. Along for the ride is Jean Harlow, who has to put up with a lot from boyfriend Tracy, who keeps putting off their wedding to deal with his newspaper. Naturally, William Powell and Myrna Loy end up hitting it off, which causes all kinds of problems…

William Powell and Myrna Loy

You know what is more than the sum of its parts, though? Spit Pea and Vegetable Soup! The recipe is adapted from my 1935 Modern Meal Maker. It's ridiculously simple and quite good. You'll enjoy this lovely winter warmer!

Split Pea and Vegetable Soup

½ cup green split peas, soaked overnight in warm water
¼ small cabbage, shredded
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 onion, minced
5 cups chicken stock

Drain the peas and place all ingredients in a stock pot, bring to a boil and then simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until peas are tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serves 6

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