Feasting in Medieval England: Unveiling Richard II's Cookbook

🍽️Richard II's cookbook, known as the Forme of Curry, is England's oldest known cook book, dating back to the 1390s.

👑Richard II was a gourmet king who prioritized his love for food and the good life over bloodthirsty rule, unlike his predecessors.

🗒️The Forme of Curry contains 196 recipes, featuring a wide range of ingredients and flavors, including meat, herbs, spices, and fruits.

🔥The kitchens of Richard II's court were a bustling hub of activity, with a staff of up to 300 people responsible for various tasks, including cooking, mincing spices, and roasting meat.

🕰️The recipes in the cookbook provide a glimpse into the seasonal nature of medieval food, with ingredients and dishes varying throughout the year.

How was the cookbook discovered?

—The cookbook, known as the Forme of Curry, was discovered in the British Library and is considered England's oldest known cook book.

What kind of food did Richard II enjoy?

—Richard II was known for his love of gourmet food and indulged in lavish dishes prepared by his Master Chefs.

How many recipes are in the cookbook?

—The Forme of Curry contains 196 recipes, showcasing a wide variety of ingredients and flavors.

What was the role of the kitchen staff in Richard II's court?

—The kitchen staff, consisting of up to 300 people, were responsible for various tasks such as cooking, mincing spices, and roasting meat.

What can we learn about medieval food from the cookbook?

—The recipes in the cookbook provide insights into the seasonal nature of medieval food, showcasing the use of fresh ingredients and the diverse flavors of the time.

00:00In medieval England, Richard II is on the throne, ruling as a Divine Monarch amidst a time of noise and activity in the kitchens of his court.

01:05Richard II's Master Chefs recorded and compiled the king's recipes into England's oldest known cook book, the Forme of Curry.

05:53The kitchens of Richard II's court were a bustling hub of activity, with various specialized roles such as sauce makers, mincers, and pluckers.

09:30The cookbook contains 196 recipes, featuring a wide range of ingredients, including herbs, spices, and even exotic fruits.

14:22One of Richard II's favorite dishes was roasted goose with a stuffing of herbs, fruit, and spices, served with a luxurious sauce known as Source Madame.

15:22Historians describe Richard II as a flamboyant and gourmet king who took great pride in his appearance and enjoyed dining in his private chambers.