Perhaps the greatest of medieval Queens was Eleanor of Aquitaine. As Queen of France then Queen of England, Eleanor had an extraordinary life. Mother of 10 children, including two kings (Richard and John), Eleanor was respected throughout Europe for her intellect and intuition. She had a good relationship with the Pope and in her younger days even … [Read more...]
Medieval Ice Cream Recipe
A recipe for medieval ice cream - really? Well, first of all let's imagine that we can travel back in time. It is the year 1155 and Henry II has just completed his first full year as King of England. He is in London with his wife and young family for Christmas, staying at the newly restored Westminster Royal Palace. The king wishes to host a … [Read more...]
Purslane For A Salad With A Medieval Twist
Now here is a salad with a medieval twist - purslane salad! If you read about medieval salad recipes, you will realise that it was nothing like the salad we enjoy today. The lettuce and tomatoes that we traditionally associate with a salad were not common in medieval Europe. Instead, our medieval forebears used herbs and flowers - and sometimes … [Read more...]
Medieval Banquet Fun – Strawberries, Desserts & Gambling
The main focus of a medieval banquet in 13th century Europe was always the fabulous feast of food presented by the host for the enjoyment of their guests. Almost every kind of food available at the time would have found its way onto the medieval banquet table. Pottage (soup as we know it today) with white bread would have been an obvious starter … [Read more...]
Rhubarb: A Valuable Medieval Luxury
If you visit a medieval garden in England or France any time between Spring and Summer, you will see rhubarb amongst the plants being grown. Strictly speaking, rhubarb is not a true fruit but you will usually find it in or near the fruit section of the garden. My own fruit terrace at home has a rhubarb patch bordered by cherry and pear trees, … [Read more...]
