Amish customs barely change with each new generation. Observing the performance of ordinary tasks might appear to an outsider as a step back in time.
Women’s Work
Storage of surplus food is an Amish housewife’s responsibility. In preparation for the winter months, Amish women “put up,” or can, several hundred jars of fruits, vegetables and meats each year.
Canning
After the start of school in the fall, Amish farm wives complete the preserving of the food. Glass jars are scrubbed, sterilized and filled, then stored on numerous shelves in the cellar. Sauerkraut, an Amish favorite, is prepared for fermentation and stored in crocks left on the porch for seven to 10 days.
Lacking Electricity
Preferring a simple lifestyle, the Amish believe in keeping their lives separate from outside diversions. Although a decision by Amish leaders in 1919 led to the permanent absence of electricity, some have gas-powered generators, allowing for the use of refrigerators at home.
Cold Storage
Stacked chunks of ice removed from ponds and streams in the area provide a type of “freezer” in Amish basements. In some instances, foods may be transferred to a rented frozen locker in town if needed.
Plentiful Food
On the homestead, the kitchen is the main gathering place where the Amish family enjoys the carefully preserved and stored harvest throughout the year.
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References
- "Cooking from Quilt Country;" Marcia Adams; 1989
- "The Old Order Amish;"T.J. Redcay;1987
Writer Bio
Michelle Fortunato gained gardening experience from numerous years of at-home plant care and a lifelong love of flowers. She has been writing since 1995, and web content writing since 2009. Her gardening articles appear online, and she has been published in several magazines. Fortunato holds certificates in writing from the Institute of Children's Literature.