Step back in time with us as we uncover 18 Ancient Historical Recipes Rediscovered, a treasure trove of culinary secrets waiting to bring a dash of history to your kitchen. From the hearty meals of medieval peasants to the exotic spices traded along the Silk Road, these recipes are not just a meal—they’re a journey. Ready to cook like it’s centuries ago? Let’s dive in!
Medieval Honey Glazed Ham
Transport your taste buds back in time with this Medieval Honey Glazed Ham, a succulent centerpiece that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked ham
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup honey, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1 tsp ground cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Brush half of the honey glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil, brush with the remaining glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 375°F. Bake for another 30 minutes, or until the ham is deeply caramelized and glossy.
- Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
The combination of honey and spices creates a glaze that’s not just sweet but richly aromatic, offering a taste of medieval feasting right at your modern table.
Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve with rustic bread and a side of stewed apples.
Roman Garum Fish Sauce
Dive into the ancient flavors of Rome with this homemade Garum Fish Sauce, a savory condiment that will elevate your dishes with its umami-rich depth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of small fish (such as anchovies or sardines), cleaned and gutted
- 1/2 cup sea salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- In a large glass jar, layer the small fish and sea salt alternately until all ingredients are used.
- Add the water, honey, ground black pepper, and ground cumin to the jar, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place for 3 months, shaking it gently every week to mix the contents.
- After 3 months, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Transfer the strained liquid into a clean bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
This ancient Roman Garum Fish Sauce brings a unique, fermented complexity to modern dishes, perfect for those who love to experiment with historical flavors.
Tip: For a smoother sauce, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth-lined sieve before bottling.
Ancient Egyptian Barley Bread
Transport your taste buds back in time with this Ancient Egyptian Barley Bread, a hearty and wholesome loaf that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups barley flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups barley flour and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Make a well in the center and add 1 tablespoon honey and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Pour in 1 cup warm water gradually, stirring to form a sticky dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the bread for 25 minutes until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
This ancient grain bread stands out with its dense texture and subtly sweet flavor, a testament to the timeless appeal of barley.
Tip: For an authentic touch, serve with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Viking Age Smoked Salmon
Transport your taste buds back to the Viking Age with this smoky, savory salmon that’s perfect for a hearty meal or a unique appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin on
- 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 cup wood chips (apple or hickory), soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp coarse sea salt, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp ground black pepper, and 1 tsp dried dill to create the cure.
- Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a large piece of plastic wrap. Evenly coat the top of the salmon with the cure mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Wrap the salmon tightly in the plastic wrap and place it in a shallow dish. Refrigerate for 12 hours to cure.
- After curing, rinse the salmon under cold water to remove the cure. Pat dry with paper towels and let it air-dry on a rack for 1 hour to form a pellicle.
- Prepare your smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions, aiming for a temperature of 200°F. Add the soaked wood chips to the smoker.
- Smoke the salmon for 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and has a deep golden color.
- Let the salmon rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
The slow smoking process infuses the salmon with a deep, woodsy flavor that’s balanced by the subtle sweetness of the cure, making it a standout dish for any gathering.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the salmon with a light coat of maple syrup before smoking.
Renaissance Peacock Pie
Step back in time with this Renaissance Peacock Pie, a lavish dish that turns dinner into a celebration. Perfect for those who love to impress with a touch of history on their plate.
Ingredients
- 1 whole peacock, cleaned and deboned (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, stirring until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Season the deboned peacock inside and out with black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Roll out two-thirds of the dough to line a 9-inch pie dish, then place the peacock inside.
- Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust. Place over the peacock, trim excess, and crimp edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the peacock is cooked through. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
The blend of cinnamon and cloves gives this pie a uniquely aromatic flavor that’s as intriguing as its history. Serve it at your next gathering to spark conversations.
Tip: For an authentic touch, garnish the pie with peacock feathers (ensure they’re clean and food-safe) before serving.
Colonial American Pumpkin Stew
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Colonial American Pumpkin Stew, a rustic dish that brings history to your table with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound stew beef, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add stew beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in beef broth, salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add cubed pumpkin to the pot. Continue to simmer until pumpkin is tender and beef is cooked through, about 30 minutes more.
- Remove bay leaf before serving. Enjoy the stew hot, with its rich flavors and tender pumpkin that melts in your mouth.
This stew stands out with its use of fresh pumpkin, which adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture that canned pumpkin just can’t match.
Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve the stew in hollowed-out pumpkin bowls for a festive presentation.
Byzantine Olive and Fig Spread
Dive into the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this Byzantine Olive and Fig Spread, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’s surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried figs, stems removed and finely chopped
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped figs and kalamata olives.
- Drizzle with 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, then stir to coat evenly.
- Add 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, and 1/4 tsp sea salt to the mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Let the spread sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
The subtle sweetness of figs paired with the tangy depth of kalamata olives creates a spread that’s as versatile as it is flavorful, perfect for elevating your next cheese board or sandwich.
Tip: For a smoother texture, pulse the spread a few times in a food processor before serving.
Victorian Era Beef Wellington
Transport your dinner table back in time with this Victorian Era Beef Wellington, a lavish dish that combines tender beef, rich mushrooms, and flaky pastry for a truly regal experience.
Ingredients
- 1 (2 lb) beef tenderloin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Season beef tenderloin with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear beef on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and let cool.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 8 oz mushrooms, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves. Cook until mushrooms are soft and liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
- Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread mushroom mixture over pastry, then place beef in the center. Wrap pastry around beef, sealing edges with beaten egg. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Brush pastry with remaining beaten egg. Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes until golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
The secret to this Beef Wellington’s irresistible appeal lies in the mushroom duxelles, which adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the succulent beef.
Tip: For an extra glossy finish, brush the pastry with a second layer of beaten egg halfway through baking.
Ancient Greek Dolmades
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these tender and flavorful Ancient Greek Dolmades, a classic dish that wraps savory rice and herbs in grape leaves for a bite-sized delight.
Ingredients
- 1 jar (16 oz) grape leaves, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, soak the grape leaves in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and pat dry.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, dill, mint, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper, cooking for 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
- Lay a grape leaf flat, shiny side down. Place a teaspoon of the rice mixture near the stem end, then fold the sides over and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Arrange the dolmades seam-side down in a pot. Drizzle with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and the lemon juice, then pour in the broth to cover.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
The dolmades’ herby rice filling and tangy grape leaves create a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.
Tip: For an extra zing, serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side.
Elizabethan Lemon Curd
Transport your taste buds back to the Elizabethan era with this exquisitely tangy and creamy lemon curd, perfect for spreading on scones or layering in cakes.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add 2 large eggs and 2 large egg yolks one at a time, whisking after each addition until smooth.
- Stir in 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice and 1 tbsp lemon zest, mixing thoroughly.
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to ensure a silky smooth texture.
- Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours.
This Elizabethan Lemon Curd stands out with its vibrant lemon flavor and luxuriously smooth texture, making it a royal treat for any tea time or dessert.
Tip: For an extra zesty kick, use Meyer lemons when they’re in season for a slightly sweeter, floral note.
Aztec Chocolate Chili
Dive into the rich, smoky depths of this Aztec Chocolate Chili, where dark chocolate and spices create a symphony of flavors that’s both unexpected and utterly comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Pour in 1 cup beef broth and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste.
The magic of this chili lies in the dark chocolate, which deepens the flavor profile without overt sweetness, making each spoonful a rich, complex experience.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro before serving.
Feudal Japan Miso Soup
Transport your taste buds to ancient Japan with this authentic Feudal Japan Miso Soup, a comforting bowl that’s both simple and deeply flavorful.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup miso paste
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 sheet nori, cut into thin strips
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in 1/2 cup of miso paste until fully dissolved.
- Add the diced tofu and let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the green onions, nori strips, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, and 1 tsp of sesame oil. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, ensuring each bowl gets a generous amount of tofu and nori.
The magic of this soup lies in the umami-rich miso paste paired with the subtle crunch of nori, offering a taste of history in every sip.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the nori lightly over an open flame before adding it to the soup.
Ancient Persian Lamb Stew
Transport your taste buds to the heart of Persia with this rich and aromatic Ancient Persian Lamb Stew, a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove lamb and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return lamb to the pot. Add beef broth, apricots, almonds, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, until lamb is tender.
- Uncover and simmer for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the stew slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
The magic of this stew lies in the sweet and savory dance of apricots and spices, creating a depth of flavor that’s unmistakably Persian.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan before adding them to the stew.
18th Century Apple Tansey
Dive into the flavors of the past with this 18th Century Apple Tansey, a delightful egg-based dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of nutmeg for a truly unique breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
- Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and slightly bubbly.
- Add the thinly sliced apples to the skillet, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Pour the egg mixture over the apples, stirring gently to distribute evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes without stirring, allowing the bottom to set.
- Carefully flip the tansey in sections to cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until fully set and lightly golden.
- Serve warm, sliced into wedges. The contrast of the creamy eggs with the tender, spiced apples makes this dish a comforting nod to historical cuisine.
Tip: For an authentic touch, serve with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Medieval Spiced Wine
Warm up your evenings with this aromatic Medieval Spiced Wine, a timeless recipe that brings a touch of history to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 3 star anise pods
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the red wine, honey, orange slices, and water over medium heat.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise pods, and ground nutmeg to the saucepan.
- Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 15 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil to preserve the alcohol content.
- After steeping, remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the wine into mugs or heatproof glasses to remove the spices and orange slices.
- Serve warm, garnished with a fresh orange slice or cinnamon stick if desired.
The blend of honey and spices in this Medieval Spiced Wine creates a perfectly balanced sweetness and warmth, making it an ideal drink for storytelling or quiet reflection.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the spices lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the wine.
Ancient Roman Libum (Cheesecake)
Step back in time with this Ancient Roman Libum, a simple yet satisfying cheesecake that’s been delighting taste buds for centuries. Perfect for those who love a slice of history with their dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup honey
- Bay leaves (for lining the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking dish with bay leaves for an aromatic touch.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the bay leaves in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the libum is firm and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with honey while still warm.
The bay leaves infuse the libum with a subtle herbal note, making this ancient treat uniquely fragrant. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Tip: For an authentic touch, serve your libum on a bed of fresh bay leaves to enhance its aromatic presentation.
Colonial Corn Pudding
Colonial Corn Pudding is a comforting, creamy side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any table, perfect for those who love a classic with a simple twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, flour, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the corn kernels and melted butter until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the pudding is set and the top is lightly golden.
The magic of this Colonial Corn Pudding lies in its creamy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness from the corn and sugar, making it a standout side that complements both savory and sweet main dishes.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the batter before baking.
Renaissance Marzipan Fruits
Transport your kitchen back to the Renaissance with these delightful marzipan fruits, a sweet nod to history that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Food coloring (assorted colors)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups almond flour, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp almond extract until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more almond flour.
- Divide the dough into small portions and tint each with different food coloring to resemble various fruits.
- Dust your hands and work surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking. Shape each colored portion into small fruits like apples, pears, or bananas, using your fingers to add details like stems or leaves.
- Let the marzipan fruits dry on a parchment-lined tray for at least 2 hours before serving or displaying.
These marzipan fruits stand out for their playful authenticity, offering a tactile and visual feast that harks back to Renaissance banquet tables.
Tip: For an extra touch of realism, use a small brush to dust the fruits with edible powder for a natural, just-picked look.
Conclusion
Exploring these 18 ancient historical recipes is like taking a delicious journey back in time! Each dish offers a unique glimpse into the past, ready to bring a touch of history to your modern kitchen. We’d love to hear which recipes captured your heart—share your favorites in the comments below or pin this article on Pinterest to keep the culinary adventure going. Happy cooking!