Moonshine mash is the fermented mixture of grains, sugar, and water used as the base for distilling Appalachian mountain liquor. Long associated with backwoods stills and "corn likker," this mash is a cornerstone of traditional moonshine-making, handed down from Scots-Irish settlers to generations of Appalachian families.
Pigs’ll eat near anything, but they love corn mash.
Estel:
Keeps ‘em fat through winter.
variations: mash
★ If the mash is bubbling, it’s working - but if it smells "rurnt," you’ve lost a batch. ★
Origin and Etymology
From Middle English "mashe" meaning a soft mixture, especially of grain or malt and hot water for brewing. The distilling sense has been part of Appalachian speech since moonshining began in the 18th century.
Usage Notes
In moonshining, mash is the first step toward liquor - let it ferment too long, and it spoils. In everyday Southern and Appalachian talk, "mash" as a verb is still common for "press" or "squash."
Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more...
Got the mash bubblin’ out back.