Amish Onion Cake

Amish Onion Cake is a savory delight hailing from the heart of Amish cuisine, known for its simplicity, hearty flavors, and wholesome ingredients. This traditional recipe combines the earthy sweetness of onions with the rich, comforting base of cake, making it a perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or as a satisfying snack on its own. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step recipe for making Amish Onion Cake, and we’ll delve into the history of Amish cooking and the significance of this flavorful cake in their culinary traditions.

Amish cuisine is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the Amish community, known for its emphasis on simple living, sustainability, and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Amish people, primarily found in the United States, have a rich culinary heritage that has been passed down through generations.

Amish cooking is characterized by its reliance on wholesome, homegrown produce and traditional methods of food preparation. Meals are often prepared from scratch and feature dishes like hearty soups, casseroles, and baked goods that provide nourishment and comfort.

The Amish Onion Cake, also known as “Zwiebelkuchen” in Pennsylvania Dutch, showcases the use of onions, a staple crop in Amish gardens. Onions were traditionally grown in abundance, making them an integral part of Amish cooking. The Amish people have ingeniously incorporated onions into various recipes, and the Onion Cake is a testament to their culinary creativity.

The combination of sweet onions with a cake-like base reflects the Amish philosophy of making the most of available ingredients to create satisfying, flavorful dishes. Onion Cake is often enjoyed as a side dish with soups or as a standalone treat, making it a versatile addition to the Amish table.

Today, Amish Onion Cake continues to be a cherished part of Amish cuisine and a symbol of the community’s commitment to simple, hearty, and delicious food. It serves as a reminder of the enduring traditions and values that have shaped Amish cooking for generations.

INGREDIENTS

For the Onion Cake:

• 4 cups thinly sliced sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Walla Walla)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet and sauté them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are caramelized and have a rich, golden-brown color. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Remove the skillet from heat and let the onions cool slightly.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized ovenproof dish.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Add the milk and sour cream to the egg mixture and whisk until you have a smooth batter.
6. Spread half of the caramelized onions evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour the cake batter over the onions in the baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the cake batter.
9. Top with the remaining caramelized onions.
10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. If desired, garnish the Amish Onion Cake with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
12. Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or slices.
13. Serve warm as a side dish with soups, stews, or enjoy it on its own as a delicious snack.

NOTES:

• Amish Onion Cake is a delightful representation of Amish culinary traditions, celebrating the use of locally sourced ingredients and the creation of comforting, flavorful dishes. Whether shared at a communal meal or enjoyed as a comforting snack, this cake is a reminder of the timeless appeal of Amish cuisine and the enduring values of simplicity and sustenance.