Cook’s Notebook: Area stores stock shelves with Sailor Boy crackers

Thanks to everyone who sent in information about their stashes of pilot bread. June Donais is now rolling in the hardtack.

Not really… but she was able to stock up on the Sailor Boy crackers – a particular favorite of those who hail from Alaska – when a reader sent a note saying he’d purchased them just the day before at the Rosauers store near the North Division Y.

Pilot bread is actually unleavened crackers that can be stored for a long time without refrigeration. They were originally used by sailors on long voyages and later by adventurers in the Alaska bush and backpackers. Now some just have a taste for the crackers.

“Manna for any Alaskan,” said Lori and Bob Montgomery, in an e-mail message. “Our family grew up on Sailor Boy Pilot Bread in Juneau, Alaska. It has changed in that it is thinner. They do keep well and are great with a salmon spread as well as peanut butter.”

We got notes from all over Eastern Washington and North Idaho. For the record, here’s where you can find them according to our readers: Family Foods in Oldtown, Idaho; Food Pavilion in Moses Lake; Top Foods in Wenatchee; and Rosauers in Colfax.

Those who want to order a case of 6 or 12 should contact: Span Alaska Sales, 16761 146th St. SE, Suite 169, Monroe, WA 98272, call (800) 367-9833 or order online at www.spanalaskasales.com.