The “Mennonite Community Cookbook” by Mary Emma Showalter is a cherished culinary treasure that not only preserves the recipes of Mennonite kitchens but also embodies the warmth and tradition of Mennonite culture.
First published in 1950 and now in its 65th anniversary edition, this cookbook is a compilation of over 1,100 recipes gathered from Mennonite women across the United States and Canada.
These recipes reflect a blend of Dutch, German, Swiss, and Russian influences, passed down through generations known for their exceptional cooking.
Mary Emma Showalter’s collection goes beyond mere instructions; it captures the essence of old-fashioned cooking intertwined with traditional Mennonite values.
The book preserves original recipe nuances while providing standardized measurements to ensure the same authentic flavors are achieved.
Each chapter begins with Showalter’s own nostalgic anecdotes, painting vivid pictures of grandma’s kitchen with its pie shelf in the springhouse and outdoor bake ovens.
In addition to its practicality in the kitchen, the cookbook holds sentimental value for many families. It has been passed down through generations, symbolizing continuity and connection to heritage.
The 65th anniversary edition enhances this legacy with new color photography and a brief historical background, complementing the original recipes and traditional Fraktur drawings.
For anyone seeking not just recipes but a glimpse into Mennonite community life and hospitality, this cookbook remains a timeless source of inspiration and cultural richness.
- “The kind of food that wins honors at the county fair.”–Christian Review
- “Its recipes go back to hand-written collections passed from generation to generation.”–The Star, Chicago
- “Simple, line-by-line directions.”–The Philadelphia Inquirer
- Hardcover Book
- Mary Emma Showalter (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 494 Pages – 09/12/1978 (Publication Date) – The Mennonite Community Association (Publisher)
About the Author
Mary Emma Showalter established the home economics department at Eastern Mennonite University and taught there from 1946 to 1972. In 1950, she authored the “Mennonite Community Cookbook,” driven by the absence of a published collection of favorite recipes from Mennonite families.
