Ever wondered what the Romans ate for dinner? The Ancient Romans, known for their engineering marvels and architectural wonders, were also gourmands. Their cuisine was a reflection of the empire's vastness, and they had a rich culinary heritage that persists even today. Let's dive into the enthralling history of Roman cuisine and embark on a journey through time with these 3 must-try Ancient Roman recipes.
History of Roman Cuisine
In Ancient Rome, food was a crucial part of daily life and societal structure. The average Roman diet consisted of staples like wheat, olive oil, and wine, and they were quite fond of sauces and spices. Their cooking techniques were elaborate, and the recipes were often passed down through generations. From the simple fare of the commoners to the extravagant banquets of the rich, Roman cuisine was as diverse as the empire itself.
Ancient Roman Cooking Techniques
The Romans used a variety of cooking methods, including boiling, roasting, and frying. They were pioneers in the development of food preservation techniques, such as pickling, smoking, and salting. The use of herbs and spices was widespread, and the Romans were known to import exotic ingredients from their vast empire.
Must-try Ancient Roman Recipes
Here are three authentic Roman recipes that you can recreate at home.
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Apicius's Garlic-and-Cheese Spread (Moretum)
This is an Ancient Roman version of a modern-day cheese spread, named after the famous Roman gourmet, Apicius. Here's how you can prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 200g pecorino romano
- 1 garlic clove
- A bunch of fresh coriander
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
Instructions:
- Grind the garlic, cheese, and coriander using a mortar and pestle.
- Add salt, oil, and a little bit of vinegar. Mix until you get a creamy consistency.
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Roman Honey-Spiced Wine (Mulsum)
Mulsum is a sweet wine that was popular in Ancient Rome. You can prepare it with the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 750ml of a dry white wine
- 225g honey
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Mix all the ingredients in a pot and bring to a simmer.
- Let it cool before serving.
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Roman Honey Cake (Savillum)
Savillum is a type of sweet cake made with honey. Here's the recipe:
Ingredients:
- 200g ricotta cheese
- 100g semolina
- 100g honey
- 1 egg
- Bay leaves
Instructions:
- Mix the ingredients, except the bay leaves, in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a Roman-style cake tin lined with bay leaves.
- Bake at 180°C for about 40 minutes.
These recipes offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of Ancient Roman cuisine.
