Barn-raisings have captured the imagination when it comes to Amish culture. The big events are symbolic of the Amish sense of self-sufficiency and community. Barn-raisings attract Amish church members from miles around, and whenever groups gather, food follows. Here are five favorite carry-in dishes you'd be likely to find at an Amish barn-raising:
The Ultimate Tossed Salad: You might think of barn-raising food all being beef and noodles and carbs, but it's not uncommon to find a huge, delicious salad being served at such an event. Especially on a hot day, a cool, crisp salad is a great way to begin a big meal. Check it out here.
Barn-Raising Breakfast Casserole: The big day arrives, you want workers to be well-fed and fueled before a day of lifting, hammering, and building. Check out this super filling barn-raising breakfast! Click here.
Barn-Raising Beefy Potato Casserole: A bit more about this recipe:
This flavorful Barn-Raising Beefy Potato Casserole recipe comes to us from an Amish woman in Indiana.  The beauty of meals like this is you can sort of tailor them to your taste.  Personally, I'd leave the carrots out, I'm just not a huge carrot fan, but you can do whatever you wish.  I can see how this dish would be great at a barn-raising where you have an army of hungry workers.  This recipe could easily be quadrupled or more and probably is for events like this one is named for. Click here for the recipe.
Amish Wigglers: This is a classic Amish crowd-pleaser, often found at big gatherings like barn-raisings. More about this:
"Wigglers", just doesn't sound too appetizing.  But the casserole is good and the conventional food wisdom is that the spaghetti in it gives a "wiggling" type appearance.  Anyway, some people call worms "wigglers" and I can see how the spaghetti could resemble that. Appetizing!
But this is, despite the name, a delicious supper and if you go through almost an Amish cookbook from almost any Amish community, you will come across a recipe for some variation of wigglers.
Amish Apple Pie Bars: A barn-raising dessert needs to be quick and portable. There are hundreds of people milling around. No time to cut and parcel out cake and pie. These bars can be made and pre-cut and are perfect for grab and go, no need for a plate. Click here for the recipe.
Leave a Reply