Scrapple, also known as mush, is a classic dish with roots in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. It’s a savory breakfast staple that combines pork scraps and cornmeal into a hearty loaf that’s sliced and fried until golden and crispy. This versatile dish is often enjoyed with eggs, toast, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory contrast. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic comfort food or simply something new to try, scrapple is a deliciously satisfying option that brings a taste of tradition to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork shoulder or pork scraps
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sage (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
- Cook the Pork: In a large pot, combine the pork and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1-2 hours, until the pork is very tender. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside to cool. Reserve the cooking liquid.
- Prepare the Pork: Once the pork is cool enough to handle, finely chop or shred it. Return the chopped pork to the pot with the reserved cooking liquid.
- Cook the Cornmeal: Gradually add the cornmeal to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the chopped onion, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you’re using. Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a mushy consistency, about 20-30 minutes.
- Form the Scrapple: Pour the thickened mixture into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top. Let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, until firm.
- Fry the Scrapple: Once firm, remove the scrapple from the loaf pan and slice it into 1/2-inch thick slices. Heat a small amount of cooking oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the scrapple slices until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve the fried scrapple hot, alongside eggs, toast, or with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet contrast.
Enjoy this taste of tradition, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch!
