Recent Posts

From Fry Pies to Fresh Bread: The Sweet Side of Jamesport, Missouri

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Bakery,Other States

Discovering the Culinary Heart of Missouri’s Largest Amish Community

Stepping into Jamesport, Missouri, is like taking a peaceful step back in time. As the largest Old Order Amish settlement west of the Mississippi, the town offers a quiet retreat from the modern world. The clip-clop of horse-drawn buggies down country roads and the absence of modern distractions create a uniquely tranquil atmosphere. But for anyone with a true appreciation for authentic Amish and Mennonite culture, the real draw is the unparalleled culinary tradition. Baking here isn’t just a chore; it’s a heritage passed down through generations, relying on simple, high-quality ingredients and old-fashioned techniques.

Two shining examples of this rich culinary tradition are Anna’s Bake Shop and Countryside Bakery. While both offer incredible Amish baked goods, they each provide a distinctly different experience for visitors.

Watercolor by Emma Schwartz
Watercolor by Emma Schwartz

Anna’s Bake Shop: A Cozy, Old-Fashioned Gem

Tucked away on Old Highway 6, Anna’s Bake Shop is the epitome of a traditional home-business bakery. Operating without electricity and strictly on a cash-only basis, this charming shop offers an intimate glimpse into the Amish way of life. The atmosphere is quiet, welcoming, and always smells of warm yeast and sweet fruit.

Favorite Finds:

  • Fresh-Baked Breads: Their hearty, traditional loaves are baked the old-fashioned way, perfect for sandwiches or simply slathered with butter.
  • Homemade Jams and Apple Butter: Anna’s shelves are lined with homestyle preserves that capture the fresh flavors of the season.
  • Classic Pies: Hand-rolled flaky crusts filled with rich, traditional fruit fillings.
  • Bonus: Alongside the treats, visitors can also browse beautifully crafted handmade baskets, birdhouses, and cutting boards.
Anna's Bakery, Jamesport

Countryside Bakery: The Bustling Hub of Baked Goods

Located right on State Highway 190, Countryside Bakery is a larger, stand-alone operation that has become a mandatory stop for both locals and travelers. Manned by a hardworking crew of Amish women, the kitchen turns out an astonishing volume of fresh goods throughout the day to keep up with the steady flow of customers. The spacious display room is a visual and aromatic feast.

Favorite Finds:

  • Fried Fruit Pies (Fry Pies): These are legendary in the area—perfectly glazed, handheld pastries bursting with sweet fruit filling.
  • Jalapeño Cheese Bread: A savory standout that customers rave about for its perfect balance of heat and rich cheese.
  • Giant Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, buttery, and heavily slathered in sweet icing.
  • Whoopie Pies & Cream Sticks: Classic Amish confections that never disappoint a sweet tooth.

Whether you prefer the quiet, homey charm of Anna’s or the bustling, bountiful shelves of Countryside, visiting these bakeries offers more than just a quick snack. It is a wonderful way to experience the warmth, hard work, and rich culinary history of the Jamesport Amish community.

Countryside
Countryside Bakery’s Goodies

A Taste of the Simple Life: Trenton Welcomes Its First Amish Deli

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

By: Elizabeth Montgomery, Food Editor

The bustling streets of Trenton, New Jersey, are about to get a whole lot tastier, and a little bit simpler. A unique new establishment has just opened its doors, bringing a touch of authentic Amish tradition and flavor right to the heart of South Jersey. The Trenton Amish Deli is officially open for business, promising a heartwarming experience and a menu filled with beloved classics and artisanal goods.

Stepping into the deli is like taking a brief journey to the rolling farmlands of Pennsylvania. The space is warm and inviting, built with hand-hewn wooden beams and bathed in natural light. The aroma of freshly baked bread, still warm from the oven, and the rich scent of smoked meats and aged cheeses immediately fill the air, sparking a sense of nostalgia for homemade comfort food.

This isn’t just any deli; it’s a dedicated space celebrating the time-honored practices of the Amish community. Every product, from the hearty loaves of bread to the small-batch preserves, is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. The market is a showcase for the incredible skill of Amish craftsmen and cooks.

macaroni salad

Visitors will find an abundance of treasures to explore. The Bakery Counter is a feast for the senses, featuring traditional Shoo-fly pie, perfectly swirled cinnamon rolls, and loaves of dense, hearty sourdough that are perfect for any dinner table. For those seeking a substantial meal, the deli offers a variety of signature sandwiches piled high with freshly sliced meats and cheeses.

One of the true highlights of the Trenton Amish Deli is its dedication to traditional preserves and canned goods. Rows upon rows of shimmering glass jars filled with colorful jams, jellies, pickles, and relishes, all made in small batches using time-honored recipes, line the shelves. From the classic strawberry jam to the more adventurous pickled beets, there is something to tickle every palate.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring this market to Trenton,” said Eli Miller, the warm-hearted deli manager. “Our goal is to create a space where the community can gather, connect, and enjoy the beautiful, simple things in life. We’ve worked closely with Amish artisans from across the region to ensure that every item in the market is authentic, high-quality, and made with love and care.”

The grand opening celebration was a joyous event, with live acoustic music and plenty of samples to taste. The local community has already embraced the deli with open arms, and it’s clear that the Trenton Amish Deli is destined to become a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.

So, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and rediscover the joy of authentic, delicious, and beautifully crafted goods, a trip to the Trenton Amish Deli is an absolute must. Come and experience a taste of the simple life, right here in Trenton, NJ.

Astatula’s Hidden Treasure: Authentic Amish Market Opens Its Doors

Written by Dennis Regling in Uncategorized

By: Elizabeth Montgomery, Food Editor

The charming town of Astatula, Florida, nestled amidst serene lakes and verdant landscapes, has just added a new, vibrant string to its bow. Today marked the grand opening of the much-anticipated Astatula Amish Market, an oasis of authentic, artisan, and handcrafted goods that promises to bring a touch of genuine Amish tradition and exquisite flavor to Central Florida.

Stepping through the hand-carved wooden doors of the market is akin to stepping into another time and place. The aroma of freshly baked bread, still warm from the oven, and the rich scent of smoked meats and aged cheeses fill the air. The market itself is a beautiful, expansive space, built with reclaimed wood and flooded with natural light, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the Amish values of simplicity and authenticity.

Visitors will find an abundance of treasures to explore. The Bakery Corner is a feast for the senses, featuring traditional shoo-fly pie, perfectly swirled cinnamon rolls, and loaves of dense, hearty sourdough that are perfect for any dinner table. For those seeking fresh produce, the market’s Farm Stand is a cornucopia of seasonal fruits and vegetables, all sourced from local Florida farms that adhere to organic and sustainable farming practices.

Amish Market

One of the true highlights of the Astatula Amish Market is its dedication to traditional preserves and canned goods. Rows upon rows of shimmering glass jars filled with colorful jams, jellies, pickles, and relishes, all made in small batches using time-honored recipes, line the shelves. From the classic strawberry jam to the more adventurous green tomato relish, there is something to tickle every palate.

But the market is not just about food. It is also a showcase for the incredible skill of Amish craftsmen. The General Store section features beautiful, handcrafted wooden furniture, ranging from sturdy dining tables to intricately carved chairs, built to last generations. You’ll also find hand-sewn quilts, natural soaps, and unique pottery, all reflecting a commitment to quality and attention to detail.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring this market to Astatula,” said Mary Miller, the warm-hearted market manager. “Our goal is to create a space where the community can gather, connect, and enjoy the beautiful, simple things in life. We’ve worked closely with Amish artisans from across the region to ensure that every item in the market is authentic, high-quality, and made with love and care.”

The grand opening celebration was a joyous event, with live bluegrass music, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and plenty of samples to taste. The local community has already embraced the market with open arms, and it’s clear that the Astatula Amish Market is destined to become a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.

So, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and rediscover the joy of authentic, delicious, and beautifully crafted goods, a trip to the Astatula Amish Market is an absolute must. Come and experience a taste of the simple life, right here in Central Florida.

Corner Bakery
Corner Bakery

Why Amish Fried Chicken is Different (and How to Make it at Home)

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish cooking,Amish Recipes

Amish fried chicken is legendary for its simplicity and its incredible, juicy crunch. In many Amish kitchens and regional restaurants, the secret isn’t a cabinet full of exotic spices; it’s the technique of “broasting” (pressure frying) or using a cast-iron skillet to achieve a deep, golden crust while keeping the meat tender.

To give this a “twist” while staying true to the culture, we’re incorporating a honey-buttermilk brine and a touch of smoked paprika—adding a subtle depth that complements the traditional pressure-cooked flavor.

Authentic Amish-Style Fried Chicken (With a Twist)

  • Prep time: 30 minutes (plus 4+ hours brining)
  • Cook time: 15–20 minutes per batch
  • Yields: 1 whole chicken, broken down

Ingredients

The Honey-Buttermilk Brine

  • 1 whole chicken (approx. 3–4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
  • 2 cups full-fat buttermilk
  • 2 tbsp honey (The “Twist”: adds a hint of sweetness and helps with browning)
  • 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

The Seasoned Flour

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (The secret to that “restaurant” crunch)
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (The “Twist”: adds a faint wood-fired aroma)
  • Lard or high-quality vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Brine for Depth: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, honey, salt, and pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
  2. The Double Dredge: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and spices. Remove a piece of chicken from the brine, let the excess drip off, and coat it thoroughly in the flour. For an extra-thick Amish crust, dip it back into the brine briefly and dredge in the flour a second time.
  3. Rest the Coating: Place the coated chicken on a wire rack for 15 minutes before frying. This “sets” the flour so it doesn’t fall off in the pan.
  4. The Fry: Heat 1 inch of oil (or lard) in a large cast-iron skillet to 175°C. Carefully place the chicken in the pan, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd.
  5. Golden Perfection: Fry for about 8–10 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 75°C. If using a heavy lid (mimicking a pressure fryer), keep it slightly ajar to let steam escape while retaining heat.
  6. Drain: Let the chicken rest on a clean wire rack for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute.

Heirloom Recipes: How to Make Authentic Deep-Dish Dutch Apple Pie

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

Heirloom Amish Dutch Apple Pie (Wet-Bottom Style)

This recipe focuses on the traditional Amish “wet-bottom” method, where a layer of custard-like filling forms beneath the apples and is topped with a rich, buttery crumble. It’s a deep-dish classic that tastes like a hundred years of tradition.

Ingredients

For the “Perfect Flake” Crust (Single 9-inch Deep Dish):

  • 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup Cold shortening (non-hydrogenated)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 4–6 tbsp Ice water

For the Apple & Wet-Bottom Filling:

  • 7–8 cups Apples (a blend of Granny Smith and Golden Delicious, peeled, cored, and sliced)
  • 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
  • 3 tbsp Tapioca flour (tapioca starch is preferred by the Amish for a clear glaze)
  • 1 tbsp Cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp Heavy cream (the secret for the wet-bottom)

For the Buttery Crumble Topping:

  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup Old-fashioned oats (Optional twist, but traditional!)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a food processor (or using a pastry blender), pulse the flour and salt. Add the butter and shortening, and pulse until the mixture looks like coarse meal with some pea-sized chunks. Slowly pulse in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  2. Form & Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic, flatten into a disc, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
  3. Roll & Fill: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Place it in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. In a large bowl, toss the apples with the sugar, tapioca flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Pour this entire mixture into the crust, mounding it in the center.
  4. Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats (if using), and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers to cut the butter in until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle generously over the apples, covering them completely.
  5. The Bake: Place the pie on a parchment-lined baking sheet (to catch drips). Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 50–60 minutes, or until the crumble is golden and the pie juices are thick and bubbling slowly. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, shield it with a pie ring.
  6. The Long Cool: This step is crucial for the “wet-bottom” to set! Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 3–4 hours before slicing.
Heirloom Amish Dutch Apple Pie
Heirloom Amish Dutch Apple Pie

Forget Bland Mayo: This Amish Chicken Salad Has a Zesty Secret Ingredient

Written by Dennis Regling in Amish Recipes

This Amish Chicken Salad keeps the traditional creamy, sweet-and-savory base but introduces a “Bluegrass Twist”—adding toasted pecans for a Southern crunch and a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the classic heavy dressing.

The Heritage Hearth “Bluegrass Twist” Chicken Salad

Ingredients

  • 4 cups Cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 cup Celery, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup Red grapes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Toasted pecans, roughly chopped (The Twist!)
  • 3 Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Green onions, thinly sliced

The Dressing:

  • 1 cup Real mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellman’s preferred)
  • 2 tbsp Sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp Yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar (The Twist!)
  • 1/2 tsp Celery seed
  • Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, diced celery, halved grapes, sliced green onions, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
  2. Toast the Pecans: In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the bowl to ensure they stay crunchy.
  3. Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed until smooth.
  4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Use a large spatula to fold everything together gently so you don’t mash the eggs or grapes.
  5. The Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Amish chicken salad is always better once the flavors have had time to “marry” and the dressing has thickened.
  6. Serve: Pile it high on a thick slice of fresh-baked rye bread or serve in a scooped-out tomato for a classic deli presentation.