What foods did European people eat in 1600-1800?

The European Diet (1600-1800): A Diverse Landscape

The European diet during this period was surprisingly diverse, influenced by region, social class, and availability. Here's a glimpse:

Common Staples:

* Bread: The most important food for all classes. Made from wheat, rye, barley, or oats, depending on region and availability.

* Porridge: A breakfast staple made from oats, barley, or rye, often cooked with milk and salt.

* Vegetables: Cabbage, onions, turnips, peas, beans, and carrots were common. Root vegetables were essential in winter.

* Fruits: Apples, pears, plums, and cherries were readily available. Seasonal fruits like strawberries and grapes were enjoyed as well.

* Dairy: Milk, butter, cheese, and yogurt were consumed regularly, especially by rural communities.

Meat & Fish:

* Meat: Less common than today, due to cost and availability. Pork was the most common, followed by beef, mutton, and poultry.

* Fish: A key source of protein, especially in coastal areas. Herring, cod, salmon, and shellfish were staples.

* Game: Hunting was important, especially for the wealthy. Deer, rabbit, pheasant, and wild boar were popular.

Other Foods:

* Eggs: A valuable source of protein, but often reserved for the wealthy.

* Honey: A common sweetener before sugar became widely available.

* Spices: Imported from the East, spices like pepper, cinnamon, and ginger added flavor to dishes.

Social Class Variations:

* Wealthy: Enjoyed a wider variety of foods, including more meat, fish, and imported delicacies.

* Middle Class: Consumed a balanced diet, with less meat but more vegetables and grains.

* Poor: Often limited to bread, porridge, vegetables, and whatever they could grow or hunt.

Regional Differences:

* Northern Europe: Heavier reliance on grains, root vegetables, and fish.

* Southern Europe: More fruits, vegetables, and olive oil in their diet.

Food Preservation:

* Salting: Used to preserve meat and fish.

* Pickling: Used to preserve vegetables and fruits.

* Drying: Used to preserve meat, fish, and fruits.

Notable Trends:

* The introduction of sugar: Sugarcane was imported from the Americas, leading to a surge in sweet treats and beverages.

* Coffee and tea: Imported from the East, these beverages became increasingly popular throughout the period.

* Improved transportation: Allowed for wider distribution of foods and ingredients, leading to more diverse diets.

Important Note:

This is a general overview. Regional and social differences, along with individual preferences, significantly impacted the actual diets of people during this period.