Friday, February 24, 2012

The Amish Cook at Home


I had a knock at the door yesterday, it was my friendly UPS man, the one who always brings me a package which I know holds something I'm really going to enjoy.

This time it was a book which I ordered from Amazon a few days ago after coming across a wonderful website named The Amish Cook.

I don't think that I need to repeat just how much I love the Amish and how fascinated I am with their lives, I think the biggest draw for me is their unwavering faith, their strength, their courage and the way that they are holding steadfast onto a simpler time.  I took sometimes wish that I could give up all the advances in technology for a much simpler way of life.


The cover of the book is so beautiful in such a simplistic way.  *sigh*

So last night, after dinner dishes were done and I had taken my shower, I slipped into my comfy pj's and climbed into bed with a cup of hot tea and the cookbook.

The book is written by Kevin Williams who is the creator and editor of the syndicated Amish Cook Column and the column is written by Lovina Eischer, mother of 8, who took over writing from her mother Elizabeth Coblentz when she passed away in 2002.

One of the first things that is talked about in the book, is how the column came to be, who Elizabeth was and how her daughter took over.  It really gives you a background into what you're reading and I appreciate that, it makes me feel like I'm a part of the book.

Here's a brief description:
Part almanac, part cultural overview, part culinary calendar, ‘The Amish Cook at Home’ is the harbinger of a new era in home cooking.
As the follow-up to Elizabeth Coblentz's ‘The Amish Cook’, ‘The Amish Cook at Home’ by her daughter, Lovina Eicher and her editor and friend Kevin Williams introduces a new generation to Amish cooking and culture.

I can't tell you just how much I am loving the book.

I am not even halfway through it and I'm learning so much about the Amish, their traditions, their way of life and what they really think.

One of the biggest misconceptions out there, and I think even for myself when I first started hearing about the Amish, was that they are not normal people, that they have nothing in common with the rest of us Englischers out here, but the more I read about them, the more I learn, the more I realize that they are just normal families like everyone else.

It's a blessing to read the stories told in the cookbook and to get a glimpse into the homes and jobs of these families.


There's not much more I can really say at this point as I'm slowly making my way through the pages, taking in every single word, savoring every line.  The recipes look fantastic and I can't wait to try some.

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for sharing this. You've made me want to get a copy for myself.

Anonymous said...

One of my favorite things to do after I have taken care of everyone is to curl up in bed with a book. I love to collect and read cookbooks too! I am very interested in this one as it has cooking and Amish life in it. Thank you for sharing. If you ever get the chance I know a trip to Lancaster County, PA would be right up your alley! I can't wait to go back. Laura B.

Sweet Tea said...

There's something so simply beautiful about the way the Amish live and there foodis sooooooo basic and "homey".

Rose @---} said...

you've encouraged me to get this book... but I get mine at the library :) we're trying to be more simple in our living too... although I don't think we'll give up the net yet.

Amiee said...

I have The Amish Cook's Baking Book and I LOVE it!! I read cookbooks like regular books too!!

Miss Ruthie Aileen said...

I grew up in Western NY in the heart of a wonderful Amish community. My dad, as a dairy farmer, interacted with several Amish farmers. I have always loved, and maybe envied, their simpler way of life. When I was in grade school we took a family trip to Lancaster. I still remember the sights and long to go back now that I am older.
I loved this post and I also love the picture on your header!

Susanne said...

It looks like a lovely book, one I'd be reading with a cup of tea too!

Meagan said...

Just wanted to let you know, if you didn't already, that PBS is running a documentary on the Amish this Tuesday night! I've already got my DVR set to record

Renee said...

Sounds like a wonderful book! I've marked in on my "TBR" pile. Thanks for sharing.

Rita said...

It seems an interesting book!