‘Amish New Year Feast’—this dish always reminds me of the Amish tradition of starting the year with good luck and good food!

How to Create Your Own Amish New Year Feast

While the Amish New Year Feast is traditionally a family affair, anyone can recreate this delightful and meaningful meal at home. Here’s how to prepare a simplified version of the feast:

Pork and Sauerkraut:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork roast
• 1 large jar of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 cup of chicken broth or water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the pork shoulder and season with salt, pepper, and optional caraway seeds.
2. Add the sauerkraut and onions around the pork. Pour in the chicken broth or water.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours (or slow-cook in a crockpot) until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
4. Serve the pork with a generous portion of sauerkraut on the side.

Mashed Potatoes:

Ingredients:

• 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup cream or milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until soft (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve alongside the pork and sauerkraut.

Sweet Corn and Bread:

Serve your favorite sweet corn (fresh or canned) as a side dish, and bake or buy some homemade rolls or bread to complete the meal.

Dessert:

Finish off your meal with a slice of apple pie or a serving of shoo-fly cake, a traditional Amish dessert made with molasses and a crumbly topping.

Why You Should Try the Amish New Year Feast

The Amish New Year Feast isn’t just about the food—it’s about celebrating the new year with intention, honoring traditions, and sharing good fortune with those around you. This comforting, hearty meal brings people together, offering warmth, nourishment, and good luck for the year ahead.

Whether you’re Amish or simply inspired by their way of life, recreating this meal is a wonderful way to start the new year on a positive note. The flavors are rich, the symbolism is deep, and the sense of community and family shines through in every bite. Make this meal part of your tradition, and carry on the Amish belief that the new year should begin with good luck and good food.