What food did they eat in medieval Baghdad?

Medieval Baghdad (762-1258 CE) was a bustling metropolis and a center of Islamic civilization. The city's cuisine reflected its diverse population and the influence of various cultures, including Persian, Indian, and Central Asian. Here are some of the foods commonly consumed in medieval Baghdad:

1. Bread: Bread was a staple food in medieval Baghdad and was made from various grains such as wheat, barley, and millet. It was often baked in communal ovens and served with dips, stews, and other dishes.

2. Meat: Mutton, lamb, beef, and poultry were the primary sources of meat, while game meat like venison and wildfowl was also consumed by the wealthy. Meat was often roasted, grilled, or stewed.

3. Fish: Fish from the Tigris River, such as carp and trout, were widely eaten and were prepared in various ways, including grilling, frying, and baking.

4. Dairy products: Yoghurt, cheese, and butter were commonly produced and used in many dishes.

5. Fruits: A wide variety of fruits were available, including grapes, figs, dates, melons, and pomegranates. These were consumed fresh, dried, or preserved in syrup.

6. Vegetables: Vegetables such as onions, garlic, leeks, carrots, turnips, and eggplant were used extensively in cooking.

7. Spices: Spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom were integral to medieval Baghdad cuisine, adding rich flavors and aromas to dishes.

8. Rice: Rice was introduced to the region from India and became popular, particularly in pilaf dishes and as an accompaniment to meat and vegetable stews.

9. Sweets: Sweets were common in medieval Baghdad and included confections made with honey, sugar, dried fruits, and nuts. Baklava, a pastry with layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, was a popular delicacy.

10. Beverages: Water was the primary drink, and flavored drinks such as sharbats made from fruits or flowers were also popular. Coffee was introduced to the region in the 15th century but was not widely consumed during the medieval period.