Certainly! Here’s a detailed and unique article about the “Amish Farmhouse Feast”—every time I serve this, my family says ‘I!’, along with a step-by-step method to prepare this comforting meal.
Amish Farmhouse Feast — Every Time I Serve This, My Family Says “I!”
There’s something magical about the wholesome, hearty meals of the Amish tradition. Rooted in simplicity, freshness, and love, Amish farmhouse cooking brings families together around the table. One of the most beloved meals I’ve discovered and shared with my own family is what I call the Amish Farmhouse Feast — a collection of rustic dishes that fill the house with warmth and create lasting memories.
Every time I prepare this feast, my family joyfully says, “I!” — meaning “I want more,” “I love it,” or simply “I’m all in.” It’s more than food; it’s a celebration of tradition, comfort, and togetherness.
What Is the Amish Farmhouse Feast?
This feast typically includes a main dish featuring tender meat, hearty sides like mashed potatoes or homemade noodles, fresh seasonal vegetables, and a simple, delicious dessert. The ingredients are fresh, often homegrown or locally sourced, emphasizing flavor and nutrition without fuss.
The version I’m sharing here highlights:
- Slow-cooked Amish-style roast beef
- Creamy mashed potatoes with homemade gravy
- Butter-fried green beans
- Soft Amish-style dinner rolls
- Classic apple pie for dessert
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Amish Farmhouse Feast
Step 1: Prepare the Slow-Cooked Amish-Style Roast Beef
Ingredients:
- 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Method:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). This seals in flavor.
- Place the roast in a slow cooker or heavy Dutch oven.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery around the roast.
- Pour in beef broth and wine (if using).
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and add bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours (slow cooker) or roast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3–4 hours, until beef is fork-tender.
- Remove roast and veggies, strain juices, and simmer juices to reduce for gravy if desired.
Step 2: Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Homemade Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Drain and return to pot.
- Mash potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Gravy:
- Use the drippings from the roast, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, and cook over medium heat.
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare Butter-Fried Green Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Drain and immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add green beans, toss in butter and garlic, and cook 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake Soft Amish-Style Dinner Rolls
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
Method:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; let it sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Punch down, shape into rolls, and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 5: Classic Amish Apple Pie for Dessert
Ingredients:
- 6 cups peeled and sliced tart apples (Granny Smith works well)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Method:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Roll out half the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Fill with apple mixture.
- Cover with second crust, seal edges, and cut vents on top.
- Bake 40–45 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles.
- Cool before serving.
Why This Feast Is So Special
The Amish Farmhouse Feast combines simple, fresh ingredients prepared with care and patience. The slow-cooked roast melts in your mouth, the buttery mashed potatoes and green beans add homey comfort, and the warm rolls and sweet apple pie round out the meal perfectly.
This feast isn’t just about the food; it’s about slowing down, savoring every bite, and sharing quality time with loved ones — just like the Amish have done for generations.
Final Thoughts
Every time I serve this Amish Farmhouse Feast, my family’s enthusiastic “I!” reminds me that good food nourishes not only the body but the soul. Try making this feast for your next family gathering or cozy weekend dinner. The flavors, aromas, and heartfelt tradition will bring smiles and maybe even a few “I want seconds!” from your loved ones.
Would you like me to help with a printable recipe card or tips for adapting this feast for smaller or larger groups?
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