Robin Hood and Medieval Outlaws: Feasts and Venison Pasties

🏹Robin Hood, the legendary outlaw, is often depicted more kindly than actual outlaws in Medieval England.

🍖Venison, particularly deer, was a common meat consumed by Robin Hood and his band in Sherwood Forest.

📚English recipes from the Middle Ages, such as the Harleian Manuscript 279, provide insights into the preparation of venison pasties.

🌿Medieval pasties were simpler than modern versions, but spices like pepper and ginger added flavor and richness.

🔪Medieval outlaws, like the Folville Gang, were a mix of organized crime from wealthy families and forest-dwelling individuals.

What kind of meat did Robin Hood and his band eat?

—They frequently consumed venison, particularly deer, which was abundant in Sherwood Forest during the Middle Ages.

What spices were used in Medieval pasties?

—Popular spices included pepper and ginger, which added flavor to the meat fillings and enhanced the taste of the pasties.

Were Robin Hood and the outlaws of Medieval England real historical figures?

—While Robin Hood is a legendary figure, Medieval England did have real outlaws, such as the Folville Gang, who engaged in organized crime and lived outside the law.

What is the historical significance of venison pasties?

—Venison pasties provide insights into the diet and culinary practices of Medieval England, particularly among outlaws like Robin Hood.

Are there any surviving Medieval recipes for venison pasties?

—Yes, the 15th Century Harleian Manuscript 279 contains a recipe called 'Venyson y-bake' that provides instructions for making venison pasties.

00:00Introduction to the topic of Robin Hood and the food associated with his legend.

00:30Description of a feast in the tales of Robin Hood, which includes venison pasties.

01:20Introduction to the 15th Century Harleian Manuscript 279 and its recipe for 'Venyson y-bake' (venison pasties).

02:59Sponsor mention of Hellofresh and the recommendation of trying modern, well-spiced recipes.

04:13Instructions on parboiling and preparing the venison for the pasties.

05:36Details on preparing the 'fair paste' (dough) for the pasties.

08:19Discussion of Robin Hood as a fictional character and the life of outlaws in Medieval England.

11:47Exploration of the restrictions on hunting in Royal Forests and the rise of forest-dwelling outlaws.

14:39Introduction to the Folville Gang, a group of organized crime outlaws from wealthy families.

15:55Comparison between the actions of the Folville Gang and the legendary Robin Hood.

17:01Tasting and review of the venison pasties, including comments on the pastry, meat, and spices.

18:20Acknowledgment and thank you to a viewer who inspired the video.

18:40Conclusion and farewell.