The Tasty History of Our Favorite Moravian Treats

BY MEGAN TAYLOR

Winston-Salem is steeped in Moravian history. Since its founding in 1766, the town of Salem was based on Moravian ideology. Coming after the Bethabara settlement, the location of Salem was chosen for its post on the Wachovia tract. In five short years, Salem replaced Bethabara as the area’s Moravian religious and commercial center. In 1913, Salem combined with the neighboring town of Winston and officially became Winston-Salem. While tobacco, railroads, and other industries took center stage in the new city, Winston-Salem didn’t lose the Moravian history that Salem brought with it into the merger. Today, that Moravian history is still standing strong and can be seen through Old Salem, Salem College, churches, traditions, and, of course, food. Whether you are a Moravian or not, you have probably eaten one of the many famous Moravian foods, which include chicken pie, cookies, sugar cake, and lovefeast buns. But have you ever wondered how these somewhat common foods became Moravian classics?

Moravian Chicken Pie

Full of a double buttery crust, chicken, and gravy, and often served with mashed potatoes and green beans, the Moravian chicken pie originated in the town of Salem. Meat pies were staples in European diets, and the Moravian church was founded in central Europe. When early Moravians immigrated to the colonies, they brought their diets and eating habits with them. Few to no vegetables are found in the European meat pies. Throughout the years, the Moravian chicken pie has closely followed its traditional recipe. Churches often have chicken pie fundraisers, replicating this recipe numerous times and bringing in large sums of money. Today, people can enjoy the dish at restaurants in Winston-Salem, purchase it from these restaurants and bakeries, or make a version for themselves at home.

Moravian Ginger Cookies

A simple combination of brown sugar, molasses, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon, rolled paper thin and baked until crisp, Moravian ginger cookies are another popular food item throughout the world. Based on the German Lebkuchen cookie, the Moravian version first appeared in 1753 when the Moravians moved to Bethabara and the cookies were referred to as “cakes.” Ginger and cloves are two spices that store well and can still be used after long trips. The cookies’ dough was made in large batches and not all baked at once; it was able to be stored for days or weeks at a time. Storing the dough for long periods of time allowed for the spices’ flavor to marinate and intensify. As for rolling the cookies paper-thin, this helped the dough go farther and for more cookies to be made. Also, the molasses can become hard when baked, so a thin cookie is a better option for eating. The spices used were expensive during colonial times and caused the cookies to be baked only on holidays and special occasions, an association that still exists today. Many people eat only Moravian ginger cookies during the holidays, making it a traditional Christmas food.

Moravian Sugar Cake

The third recipe brought with the Moravians from Europe, Moravian Sugar Cake, isn’t your traditional cake, but has rather a coffee-cake consistency. It is a mixture of yeast-raised dough and mashed potatoes. A very popular item in bakeries throughout Winston-Salem, the dough is shaped into a square and left to rise. After it has risen, holes are poked into the dough and hot butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon is poured into them. Once baked, the topping becomes crunchy and yummy. Rumor has it that during the 1700s and 1800s, Moravian sugar cake was such an oftenrequested treat that men would marry women with big fingers and thumbs because that meant more of the sugary topping could be mixed into the dough. Whether or not that is true, Moravian sugar cake’s popularity has never fallen.

Moravian Lovefeast Buns

The first lovefeast was held in Germany on August 13, 1727, as a celebration of the renewal of the Moravian Church. This service is based on nourishing the soul and adding more love and peace into the world. It is a celebration full of singing and messages. Worshipers also partake in a meal of bread and sweetened coffee that is passed out by “dieners,” the German word for “servers.” Over time the bread, officially known as the “lovefeast bun,” and coffee have become favorites of many. The lovefeast bun is a simple recipe with an “M” or a cross baked in the middle of the dough. It is similar to a sweet roll, but in a hamburger-bun shape. It has an orange flavoring and is filled with different spices. Lovefeasts are held at various holidays and occasions throughout the year and wouldn’t be complete without the traditional lovefeast buns.

At numerous locations in Winston-Salem, you can find at least one of these Moravian treats. A simple stop at your neighborhood grocery provides a chance to pick up a sugar cake or pack of ginger cookies. We all have our favorite Moravian treats (mine is the ginger cookies), but one thing is for sure, these recipes will never go out of style and will always be loved in Winston-Salem.

Featuring Chad’s Chai couldn’t turn down the opportunity to become the tea guy for an Irish pub. The partnership resulted in one of Winston-Salem’s favorite blends--“Finnigan’s Wake Up.”

The open forum of a marketplace provides a refreshing getaway from shopping aisles. Each venue offers a unique setting that may include activities for children, live entertainment, and an array of foods. The curious shopper discovers she has direct access to fresh and locally grown fruits, herbs, flowers, and vegetables, dairy-based products, proteins, homemade goodies, and artisan-based, handmade crafts. The welcoming man, woman, or couple behind the table provides a small sampling of popular items. Whether you are a first-timer or repeat customer, take the time to introduce yourself, ask questions, and inquire if owners receive visitors, offer a produce box, or have a farm store. The answer may be “yes” or “it’s coming soon!”

Cobblestone Farmer’s Market

For almost a decade, Chad’s Chai has been a mainstay at Cobblestone Farmer’s Market! From 9:30 AM to noon, visitors aiming to find comforting tastes should stop by the booth featuring a fragrant selection of freshly brewed tea. Micah will gladly assist in making a recommendation if you do not have a favorite! Perhaps the suggestion may be “CPR,” a lavender and basil matcha, or February’s featured “Chai Ya Yai,” a more intense and spicey take on their original Black Chai.

25 Symphonies

Imagine a symphony, notes of high and low chords ascending into the air. And then, a high-end sparkle—the cymbals crash! “Blending tea is very much like making music,” shares Chad. “I think about how I’m going to take the main flavor, such as chamomile, which has earthy, round flavors; then, I consider what would offer a contrasting note, such as the warmth of ginger or intricacy of lavender. We perform a lot of taste tests. The look on people’s faces defines why I love creating teas. Chad’s Chai offers a unique opportunity for a never-ending tea party. And, when you have something great, isn’t it worth sharing with friends?” Fortunately, thanks to the unique blends of spices and herbs, each cup of Chai contains therapeutic properties to benefit the drinker! Bottoms up!

Poker Game, a Wedding, and a Pub

As Chad Morris and Thomas Lees discuss their plans for opening a tea shop in late spring, reflection opens the door to positive memories and a continued belief in how the power of tea brings people together. Twenty-two years ago, Chad experienced the magical combination of witnessing the socializing effects of Chai tea in an informal setting of friends. To recreate the moment, he purchased an array of Indian spices and began crafting original recipes. Chai Tea, of course, is the ideal complement to a wedding setting; therefore, Chad gladly agreed to serve his blends and offer party favors. The decision was inevitable; life’s pathway did not lead towards a youth international missions’ worker, but a businessman. Within a few months in 2006, friendly banter at a poker game led to an extraordinary proposition. Chad

A Future Vision

Co-owners Morris and Lees foresee the establishment of a physical location, Chad’s Chai Tea House, which will have tall walls, great natural light emanating through live greenery, floor seating, and a small stage. The ambiance will offer comfortable and cozy loveseats, front and back patios, all for the enjoyment of sitting and enjoying good company and delicious tea! In addition, they anticipate the return to “Tea 101” and “Tea Blending” classes. “We are grateful to the Winston-Salem area; they have embraced Chad’s Chai, enjoyed, and celebrated it with us,” shares Chad. “Opening the doors of a tea shop feels like a great next step! It’s a pleasure to share with the community what we are most passionate about.” Chad’s Chai Tea blends are available at Cobblestone Farmer’s Market from 9:30 AM to noon on Saturdays, and at many other local venues, such as Camino Bakery, Black Mountain Chocolate Bar, and Poppyseed Provisions. For a complete list, go to https://chadschai.com/! Join the mailing list to learn more about new blends and the Grand Opening!