12 Traditional Amish & Mennonite Recipes
If you ever come across an authentic Amish or Mennonite restaurant — go in and have a seat, try the simple, hearty food.
Discover the flavors and rich culinary traditions of Amish and Mennonite communities with this collection of classic recipes. From comforting soups to old-fashioned desserts, these dishes reflect the cherished simplicity and homestyle cooking that define these communities. Join us on a culinary journey through the kitchens of the Plain People, where wholesome ingredients and time-honored methods create meals that warm both the body and the soul.
Old-Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
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A comforting classic brimming with tender chicken and hearty noodles, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This timeless soup is a reminder of the simpler, homestyle kitchen traditions. Make your own homemade egg noodles to take it to the next level.
Traditional German-Style Sauerkraut
Tangy and delicious sauerkraut, a staple in Amish and Mennonite cuisine, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a side dish that pairs well with a variety of hearty entrees.
Amish Zucchini Bread
Moist and spiced zucchini bread, a beloved homemade treat enjoyed by many, often served during gatherings and family dinners in Amish and Mennonite communities.
Amish Sticky Buns
Sweet and gooey sticky buns with a delightful cinnamon filling, these Amish-style buns make for a scrumptious addition to breakfast or brunch, and they are a true crowd-pleaser.
Red Beet Eggs
Vibrant and tangy hard-boiled eggs pickled with beets, a colorful and traditional dish frequently found at Amish and Mennonite gatherings, potlucks, and picnics.
Chocolate Whoopie Pies With Peanut Butter Icing
A heavenly dessert featuring rich chocolate cakes sandwiched with creamy peanut butter icing. These whoopie pies are a cherished indulgence in Amish and Mennonite communities.
Amish-Style Baked Oatmeal With Blueberries
Wholesome baked oatmeal with a burst of blueberry goodness, providing a nutritious start to the day and a popular breakfast choice in Amish and Mennonite homes.
Amish Pumpkin Pie
A warm slice of pumpkin pie with traditional Amish flavors, a classic dessert perfect for fall celebrations, enjoyed with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
The Best Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe
A delightful cranberry jello salad recipe that’s a hit at gatherings, bringing a touch of sweetness and tartness to the Amish and Mennonite table during the Christmas holidays.
The Best Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Soft, buttery, and sweet sugar cookies, a delightful treat for any occasion, loved for their simplicity and homestyle taste.
Streusel Kuchen (German Coffee Cake)
A delectable German coffee cake with a crumbly streusel topping, perfect for sharing over coffee or tea.
Amish Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and velvety mashed potatoes are always a hit.
More German Recipes
Lots of Amish culinary traditions are from a German background, and we frequently cook traditional German food, too.
About The Amish & Mennonite Culinary Tradition
Amish and Mennonite culinary traditions primarily have their roots in the European cuisines of Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands. The Anabaptist movement, from which both communities originated in the 16th century, had a significant presence in these regions of Europe. The culinary heritage of these communities reflects the simple, hearty, and traditional foods commonly prepared in these European countries.
The Amish, in particular, draw from the German and Swiss culinary traditions. They often use ingredients and cooking methods reminiscent of the German-speaking regions, focusing on hearty and comforting dishes. Ingredients like root vegetables, bread, dairy, and meats are staples in their recipes.
Mennonite recipes also share this European influence, especially from the German-speaking areas. Traditional Mennonite dishes often include ingredients like potatoes, sausages, bread, and dairy products, reflecting the agricultural and culinary practices of their European forebears.
Amish and Mennonite recipes have adapted over time, incorporating ingredients available in their new homes, but the foundational influences from these European traditions remain evident in their beloved dishes.