Category: Appalachian food

  • Herbal Remedies and Healing Traditions of Appalachia: Stories of Mountain Doctors and Midwives

    Nestled in the misty hills and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains, a rich tradition of herbal medicine has flourished for centuries. In these remote, often isolated regions, where modern healthcare could be miles away, people turned to the land for healing. The teas, tinctures, and remedies of the Appalachia were crafted from the local flora,…

  • Appalachian Christmas Superstitions You Might Not Know

    The Appalachian Mountains, with their rich culture and storied history, are a treasure trove of folklore, traditions, and superstitions. One of the most enchanting times to explore these beliefs is during the Christmas season, when the cold winds blow down from the mountains and the community gathers to celebrate. Appalachians have long relied on superstition…

  • The Lives of People in Appalachia: A Cycle of Disillusionment and Misinformation

    The people of Appalachia have long been portrayed as tough, resilient, and self-reliant. Nestled in the mountains of the American Southeast, these communities have weathered economic hardship, a changing landscape, and, more recently, the rise of political figures who thrive on fear and misinformation. For decades, the region has been a stronghold for politicians who…

  • Why Are Appalachian People Having to Move from Their Homes in Coal Mining Areas?

    For generations, the Appalachian region, particularly in states like West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, has been synonymous with coal mining. The rich deposits of coal in these mountain communities fueled the industrial revolution and became the backbone of local economies, providing jobs and livelihoods for entire families. Yet, in recent decades, coal mining has been…

  • Thanksgiving in the Mountains: A Memory That Still Lives On

    Thanksgiving always takes me back to my Granny’s old house in the mountains of Appalachia, in a little community called Spillcorn. A place where life was simple but not without its struggles. The mountain air in November had a bite to it, the kind of cold that settled into your bones, but there was warmth…

  • “Scripture Cake: A Sweet Tradition of Appalachia”

    If you’re someone who enjoys baking and appreciates the rich history of biblical traditions, then you’ll love the story and recipe behind Scripture Cake. This unique cake has been passed down through generations, offering a sweet and meaningful way to combine culinary art with the teachings of the Bible. As its name suggests, Scripture Cake…

  • Aunt Sophie Campbell: A Smoky Mountain Legend in Appalachia

    In the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, there lived a woman whose legacy would endure long after her passing—a woman who embodied the spirit of these rugged mountains, their folklore, and their hospitality. Her name was Aunt Sophie Campbell, and she became one of the most beloved figures in the region. Known for her…

  • Buttermilk Pie: A Simple, Sweet Holiday Tradition

    There’s a special kind of joy that comes from the desserts we make year after year, especially during the holidays. For me, one of those treats is Buttermilk Pie—a dessert that’s more than just sweet. It’s a little slice of nostalgia. My granny used to make it every Thanksgiving and Christmas, and I can still…

  • Hoecakes: A Taste of Appalachian Tradition Passed Down Through Generations

    Food has a unique way of connecting us to our roots, to our families, and to the places we come from. For me, one of those deeply rooted dishes is the humble hoecake—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and always made with love. Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains, hoecakes were a frequent…

  • My Appalachian Granny’s Biscuits: A Tradition That Lives On

    This morning, I was in the kitchen, mixing up a batch of biscuits, and I couldn’t help but think of my little Appalachian granny. The smell of the dough baking instantly took me back to those mornings with her—me and my cousins, all gathered around the kitchen, trying our best to make biscuits just like…