Kids Try Medieval Foods: A Culinary Journey Through Time

When it comes to medieval cuisine, most people imagine grand feasts with roasting meats and elaborate sauces. However, the reality was much more nuanced, depending on one's social class. In this article, we'll delve into what kids in the Middle Ages would have eaten, and how their diet differed from those of the rich.

Legumes: The Peasants' Delight

In medieval Europe, legumes like chickpeas and fava beans were a staple for the common folk. These beans were viewed with suspicion by the upper class due to their tendency to cause flatulence. But for the regular folks, they were a reliable source of protein. In fact, peasants would often cook them in large quantities and enjoy them as a main course.

Oils and Fats: The Cooking Mediums

In medieval Europe, people cooked with a variety of oils and fats. While lard was commonly used in some parts of the continent, others opted for olive oil, poppy oil, walnut oil, or hazelnut oil. In Northern Europe, people even used butter as a cooking medium, although it was super salty (5-10%) to prevent spoilage.

Cheese: The Common Man's Protein

For the lower classes, cheese was an important source of animal protein. Many varieties would look familiar today, such as Edam, Brie, and Parmesan. Cheese was often served with bread or used in soups and stews.

Milk and Dairy: A Luxury for the Rich

Cow milk wasn't a popular choice during medieval times due to its tendency to spoil quickly. Almonds, on the other hand, were widely available and commonly used as a thickener in soups, stews, and sauces. Almond milk was also a staple, giving many dishes a sweet-sour flavor.

Seasonings: A Taste of Luxury

For the upper classes, seasonings like verjuice, wine, vinegar, black pepper, saffron, and ginger were de rigueur. These flavors added depth and complexity to their meals.

The Peasants' Diet

In contrast, peasants ate a diet that revolved around grains, such as barley, wheat, and rye. Barley was particularly popular for its ease of cultivation and durability. Barley bread, porridge, gruel, and pasta were staples for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Rich and Their Expensive Delights

For the wealthy, food was a status symbol. They enjoyed a diet rich in wheat and meat, which were expensive and prestigious items. Grain provided 65-70% of calories for these individuals in the early 14th century.

In conclusion, medieval cuisine varied greatly depending on social class. While peasants relied on legumes, grains, and simple cooking methods, the wealthy indulged in luxurious ingredients like meat, cheese, and spices. For kids in the Middle Ages, their diet was shaped by their family's socioeconomic status, a reminder that food has always played a significant role in shaping our experiences.

Kids try medieval foods