The Delicious Honey Fritters of Constantinople: A Byzantine Treat

🍯The Byzantine cuisine was influenced by the Western Roman Empire and had few surviving recipes.

🌍Constantinople had a complex water supply system, with underground cisterns providing drinking water.

🥘The markets of Constantinople offered a wide variety of food, including honey, cheese, seafood, and dried meats.

🍷Taverns and inns in Constantinople served wine, but opening hours were regulated to avoid public disturbances.

👑Even rulers like Ioannes Hagiotheodorites indulged in street food, defying their servants' objections.

What ingredients are needed to make honey fritters?

—To make honey fritters, you will need milk, fine durum flour, olive oil, honey, and black pepper.

What was the significance of the markets in Constantinople?

—The markets in Constantinople were famous for providing a wide range of fresh and prepared foods, making them a central part of the city's culture and economy.

How was the water supply managed in Constantinople?

—Constantinople had a complex water supply system that included underground cisterns, aqueducts, and wells. This ensured a sufficient water supply for the city despite challenges like salty drinking water.

What other foods were popular in Byzantine cuisine?

—In addition to honey fritters, Byzantine cuisine included dishes like sausages, skewers of meat, fresh and dried fruits, vegetables, seafood, and various types of cheese.

What regulations were in place for taverns and inns in Constantinople?

—Taverns and inns in Constantinople had specific opening and closing hours, with restrictions on selling wine and cooked dishes. These regulations aimed to prevent public disturbances caused by excessive drinking.

00:00Introduction to the markets of Constantinople and honey fritters.

07:20Exploration of the markets and availability of ingredients in Byzantine cuisine.

15:36Preparation of honey fritters and tasting.