When it comes to food, the Amish have a way of turning the basics into something extraordinary. While the rest of us are Googling how to bake bread without turning it into a brick, they’re over here perfecting centuries-old recipes that make our store-bought versions look like amateur hour. Their methods may be old-school, but the results speak for themselves—simple ingredients, no shortcuts, and flavors that can’t be faked. If you can find an Amish market nearby, this is what’s worth buying.
Butter
Amish butter is churned by hand using fresh cream from grass-fed cows, keeping the process simple and pure. The result is a rich, velvety texture and a depth of flavor that’s worlds away from mass-produced options. Its natural yellow hue speaks to the quality of the cream and the care taken in each batch, making it a standout for baking or spreading.
Cheese
From creamy colby to tangy sharp cheddar, Amish cheese is crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Milk from pasture-raised cows and natural aging in cellars create complex flavors and textures. It’s the kind of cheese that shines on its own, no crackers required.
Maple Syrup
Made from sap collected in spring and boiled down in wood-fired evaporators, Amish maple syrup is pure and robust. Unlike commercial syrups with added sugar and flavorings, theirs is just maple sap turned into liquid gold. Drizzle it on pancakes, mix it into dressings, or use it to sweeten desserts—it’s always a step above.
Bread
Fluffy white Amish bread combines simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and a touch of sugar. It has a tender crumb and a slightly sweet taste, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or tearing straight from the loaf.
Pickles
Made from freshly harvested cucumbers, Amish pickles are brined with a mix of vinegar, salt, and spices, avoiding artificial preservatives. The result is a crisp, tangy bite that’s perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches, or serving as a side dish. Their time-honored pickling methods create bold flavors that stand out.
Eggs
Amish eggs come from free-ranging hens that forage for bugs and grasses, giving the yolks their vibrant orange hue and a richer taste. These eggs are fresher than anything you’ll find in a supermarket, perfect for poaching, baking, or simply frying and with the price of eggs these days, farm fresh Amish eggs are a bargain!
Apple Butter
Slow-cooked using hand-picked apples and just the right mix of spices, Amish apple butter is thick, smooth, and perfectly spiced. It contains no unnecessary sweeteners, allowing the natural apple flavor to shine. Spread it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or use it as a glaze for meats.
Canned Vegetables
From green beans to tomatoes, Amish canned goods are packed fresh from their gardens, sealing in peak-season flavor. No preservatives or added chemicals—just vegetables, water, and maybe a pinch of salt. They’re perfect for quick meals or as a pantry staple in the winter months.
Jam and Jelly
Amish jams and jellies are made in small batches with ripe fruits and natural sugars, delivering a true-to-fruit flavor. Whether it’s strawberry, raspberry, or grape, the spreads have a homemade quality that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Amish Noodles
These hand-rolled and sun-dried noodles are thicker and more robust than anything you’ll find at the store. They cook up beautifully in soups, casseroles, or as a standalone dish with butter and herbs. Their chewy texture and rich taste make them a favorite in hearty meals.
9 Amish Kitchen Secrets Every Home Cook Needs to Know
Amish cooking might seem far removed from modern techniques, yet it holds timeless wisdom that can transform your approach to food. Emphasizing simplicity and tradition, these practices foster a deep connection to the community and the joy of preparing meals together. The Amish way of cooking highlights the beauty in straightforward methods and the profound impact of keeping traditions alive. Here’s what you can do to incorporate some of their secrets into your kitchen.
Read it Here: 9 Amish Kitchen Secrets Every Home Cook Needs to Know
10 Classic Baking Tips Straight from Amish Kitchens
Amish baked goods are known for their incredible taste, and it’s no accident. Generations of Amish bakers have perfected their techniques, relying on simple, natural ingredients and a lot of patience. If you want to take your baking skills to the next level, look no further. Here are some classic tips straight from Amish kitchens that will help you create mouthwatering treats.
Read it Here: 10 Classic Baking Tips Straight from Amish Kitchens
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
