Old Lady On A Bus Chicken
Introduction:
When it comes to finding hidden culinary gems, one can stumble upon remarkable cookbooks that encapsulate the rich traditions and flavors of a particular community. One such treasure is the beloved Plain cookbook penned by Marjorie Rohrer, a Mennonite woman from Virginia.
Within its pages lie over 300 recipes, carefully collected from Mennonite families and their time-honored customs. While this cookbook may prove elusive to find, it has garnered a dedicated following due to its limited print run. Join us as we delve into the story behind one standout recipe from this remarkable collection: the intriguingly named “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken.”
A Recipe Born from Unexpected Origins:
Sometimes the most delightful recipes have the most peculiar origins. In the case of “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken,” the name itself stems from a chance encounter. Legend has it that a Mennonite woman, while on a bus near Atlanta (although her reason for being there remains a mystery), overheard a conversation between two elderly ladies. This conversation included a recipe that instantly captured her attention. Intrigued by the description and eager to preserve the dish’s legacy, the Mennonite woman brought it back to her community in Dayton, Virginia. From there, it quickly gained popularity among Mennonite women, establishing itself as a cherished part of their culinary repertoire.
A Tangy Twist: The Power of Orange Juice
What sets the “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken” apart is the unique tanginess that comes from its sauce, infused with the vibrant flavors of orange juice. This delightful twist on traditional chicken recipes is a staple in Amish and Mennonite farmsteads, where poultry holds a special place. These communities have a deep appreciation for chicken, as reflected in the countless chicken recipes found in their kitchens. With its versatility and wide availability, chicken serves as a cornerstone ingredient that allows for an endless array of culinary creations.
However, the demands of Amish mothers and wives often leave them with limited time for intricate recipes. This is why quick and flavorful dishes like “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken” have become cherished favorites.
Preserving Culinary Heritage:
Marjorie Rohrer’s cookbook stands as a testament to the significance of preserving culinary heritage within a community. By documenting the cherished recipes passed down through generations, Rohrer ensures that the flavors and traditions of the Mennonite people will endure. While her cookbook may be challenging to find due to its limited publication, the enduring popularity of “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken” serves as a testament to the profound impact of these culinary treasures.
Recipe:
INGREDIENTS
- 1 fryer chicken (cut up)
- 1 /2 cup orange juice concentrate
- 1 /3 cup Kraft barbecue sauce
- 1 /3 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon hickory smoke
DIRECTIONS
- Grease a 9 X 13 inch pan.
- Place chicken in a pan.
- Combine sauce ingredients and pour over chicken.
- Bake for 1 1 /4 hours at 350, basting occasionally after first half hour.
Through Marjorie Rohrer’s Plain cookbook, we gain a glimpse into the fascinating world of Mennonite cuisine. The story behind the “Old Lady on a Bus Chicken” recipe exemplifies how culinary traditions can be born from unexpected encounters and flourish within a close-knit community. As we savor the tangy flavors of this unique dish, let us celebrate the power of recipes to connect us to our roots and preserve the rich tapestry of our diverse culinary heritage.
