John's Blog

Although most people refer to today as "Fat Tuesday" or "Pancake Day", in my old neck of the woods we'd think of it as "Fastnacht Day" (meaning the night before the fast). A "Pennsylvania Dutch" tradition that came from Germany it was a way to get rid of all the fatty substances found around the house prior to Lent, when these were to be avoided.

These rich hunks of unleavened potato dough are deep fried, then covered in powdered sugar. Unlike a donut these puppies don't have holes, but don't be surprised to see supermarket versions that actually have them. According to a piece containing Fastnacht Recipes & Traditions the proper way to eat one of these is to slice it like a bagel, and slather it with butter and syrup. This is news to me, since I've usually just shoved them down the 'ol pie hole. Although most of the time I coulda' cared less about them back when I could get them, now that I can't find them I have a major craving. But I always want what I can't have.

And now that I'm obsessing, here are a few more of the PA treats that I haven't had for ages that I'm suddenly longing for:

Scrapple: One of the many dishes that sounds, and many say looks disgusting, this is also sometimes referred to as Pon Haus. A mash-up of meal, pork scraps, and the ominously described "trimmings" (don't ask) it's formed into a loaf, then sliced, fried, and served with maple syrup. An acquired taste probably, but it can be a tasty treat.

Hog Maw: First, you get a pig's stomach. Still with me? Then stuff that baby with cubed potatoes, crumbled-up sausage, onions, celery, then bake or boil to taste. Cut into slices and enjoy! Trust me, it's better than it sounds.

Lebanon Bologna: Although I occasionally find this at the local A&P, it differs from the other stuff that masquerades as bologna, since it has been smoked and cured. What I can only find in PA is the variant "sweet bologna" which adds a sweet taste to the smokey flavor.

Pickled Eggs: Sometimes known as "pickled beet eggs" these aren't that tough to make, but I'm just lazy.

Great; I previously threatened to turn this into a recipe blog and it looks like I'm now one step closer.

Tags: Fastnachts, Lent, food, Pennsylvania Dutch, pointless rambling