Who Coined the Phrase “Pork Chops and Applesauce”?

The iconic phrase “pork chops and applesauce” has become deeply ingrained in American popular culture, but its origins remain a subject of some debate. While the dish itself has been enjoyed for centuries, the phrase gained widespread recognition through its association with a beloved television show.

The Brady Bunch Connection

The phrase “pork chops and applesauce” became synonymous with the sitcom “The Brady Bunch” after an episode that aired in 1971. In the episode titled “The Personality Kid,” the character of Peter Brady (played by Christopher Knight) impersonates the voice of Humphrey Bogart while saying the line “pork chops and applesauce.”

This humorous moment resonated with viewers and the phrase quickly became a catchphrase associated with the show. It has since been referenced in numerous other television shows, movies, and even songs.

Origins Prior to “The Brady Bunch”

While “The Brady Bunch” popularized the phrase, there is evidence that it was used prior to the show’s播出. In fact, some sources suggest that the phrase may have originated in the late 19th century.

• 1858 Play: In the play “Our American Cousin,” which was attended by President Abraham Lincoln on the night of his assassination, the character of Asa utters the line “Now I’ve no fortune, but I’m filling over with affections which I’m ready to pour out all over you like apple sass, over roast pork.”

• 1890 Cookbook: The phrase “pork chops and applesauce” appears in a cookbook published in 1890, suggesting that the dish was already well-known at that time.

Cultural Significance

The phrase “pork chops and applesauce” has become deeply embedded in American culture, representing a sense of comfort and nostalgia. It evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.

The phrase has also been used in a variety of contexts, from humorous to affectionate. It has been referenced in popular culture, including:

• The Simpsons: In the first “Treehouse of Horror” episode, Homer admonishes Kang and Kodos to “get some apple sauce out here for these pork chops,” referencing a scene from “The Twilight Zone” episode “To Serve Man.”

• Music: The phrase has been referenced in songs by artists such as Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead, and Bruce Springsteen.

While the exact origins of the phrase “pork chops and applesauce” may be uncertain, its association with “The Brady Bunch” has undoubtedly cemented its place in American popular culture. The phrase has become a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and humor, and continues to be used and referenced in various contexts today.