My daughter recently gave me her copy of The Amish Cook at Home by Lovina Eicher with Kevin Williams and I'm really enjoying it. I've read a few other Amish cookbooks without much enthusiasm. The Amish Cook at Home seems more authentic to me, although I really have no way of knowing what is or isn't authentic when it comes to Amish cooking.
There are many recipes in the book, from Dandelion Jam to Bacon-Wrapped Jalapenos. The author covers traditional Amish foods, such as from-scratch chicken and noodles and homemade pies, but also explains why dishes like tacos and pizza are becoming new traditions in Amish homes.
This book is much more than just a cookbook. It's an interesting overview of Amish customs and culture. There are essays by Lovina Eicher and her eight children about food, family and faith. Co-author Kevin Williams also writes a touching tribute to Eicher's mother, who was the author of the original syndicated column, The Amish Cook.
The photos in the book are outstanding, taken with care and respect. While having a photo of each recipe is usually a requirement for me, there are no recipe photos in this book. Instead there are photos of asparagus emerging from the ground in Spring, pumpkins on a porch in Fall, and Amish children at play all year long. Oddly, I'm finding that I don't miss the food photos at all.
I highly recommend this book, not only to those who would like to try Amish cooking, but to anyone interested in a taste of daily Amish living.
This book was a gift from my daughter. I have not been compensated in any way for writing this review.
7 comments:
Dandelion Jam-Not going to happen here!
Thanks for the review, I'll tell Den. He loves going through cook books. He is weird!
Thanks for the review. My daughter and I love cookbooks that give not only recipes but a back story too. I think we will really enjoy this one.
Where's your sense of adventure, SonyaAnn? Besides, dandelions = free food! ;)
Sheila: I also think you will enjoy it. :)
I have to look for this. I love reading about the Amish. I think their lifestyle is so fascinating.
I think if I found enough dandelions, I'd be willing to try some jam.
I don't know if I'd try the Dandelion jam or not, just because we don't eat that much jam or jelly to begin with. But I'm thinking of trying the dandelion greens salad in the book.
And yes, Frances, I find the Amish lifestyle fascinating, too. Religious aspects aside, the simplicity of their lifestyle is very appealing to me.
This sounds great, sharing this post on my Wednesday and wandering links, thanks!
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