What do people in Mesopotamia like to eat?

It's difficult to say definitively what people in Mesopotamia "liked" to eat, as we can only glean information from archaeological evidence and ancient texts. However, we can piece together a picture of their diet based on what we know.

Common foods in Mesopotamia:

* Grains: Wheat and barley were the staples of the Mesopotamian diet, used to make bread, porridge, and beer.

* Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and peas were also important sources of protein.

* Vegetables: Onions, garlic, leeks, cucumbers, and dates were common vegetables.

* Fruits: Dates were a particularly important fruit, used both fresh and dried. Other fruits included figs, pomegranates, and grapes.

* Meat: Sheep, goats, and cattle were the main sources of meat, with poultry and fish also consumed.

* Dairy: Milk and cheese were also consumed.

Special foods:

* Beer: Mesopotamians were known for their love of beer, which was brewed from barley and dates.

* Wine: Wine was also produced and enjoyed, though likely less common than beer.

* Honey: Honey was a prized sweetener, and was used to make mead, a honey-based alcoholic beverage.

Influence of social status:

* The wealthy: The wealthy could afford more luxurious foods, such as imported spices and fruits.

* The poor: The poor relied more heavily on grains and legumes, and may have had less access to meat and dairy.

Beyond food:

* Dietary restrictions: Some religious groups in Mesopotamia had dietary restrictions, such as abstaining from certain foods.

* Food in rituals: Food played an important role in religious rituals and festivals.

While we can't know for sure what every Mesopotamian liked to eat, we can get a glimpse into their diverse and fascinating culinary world.