What type of food did the Wendat eat?

The Wendat, also known as the Huron, were a Native American people who lived in what is now southern Ontario, Canada. Their diet was diverse and consisted primarily of:

Plant Foods:

* Corn (maize): A staple crop, used in various ways, including for porridge, bread, and as a sweetener.

* Beans: Various types of beans, including kidney beans and soybeans, were cultivated and eaten.

* Squash: Different types of squash, such as pumpkins and gourds, were grown and used in stews and other dishes.

* Wild Rice: Harvested from lakes and rivers, wild rice was a significant food source.

* Berries: Many types of berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, were gathered in the summer.

* Nuts: Walnuts, hickory nuts, and acorns were gathered and used in various recipes.

* Wild Plants: Various edible plants, such as wild onions, leeks, and other greens, were collected and eaten.

Animal Foods:

* Fish: A significant source of protein, they fished for various species, including pike, bass, and catfish.

* Deer: Hunted for meat and hides, deer were a valuable source of sustenance.

* Other Animals: They also hunted for smaller animals, such as rabbits, squirrels, and birds.

* Turtle: Turtles were harvested and their meat and eggs eaten.

Cooking Techniques:

* Boiling: Food was often boiled in earthenware pots.

* Roasting: Meat and vegetables were roasted over fires.

* Drying: Food was dried for preservation, particularly berries, corn, and meat.

* Smoking: Meat was smoked to preserve it and enhance its flavor.

Overall:

The Wendat diet was balanced and nutritious, relying on a variety of foods cultivated, hunted, and gathered from their environment. This diversity ensured their survival and prosperity for centuries.