Recipes from the Byzantine Empire: 5 Delicious & Easy Dishes

The Byzantine Empire, a powerful and rich civilization that spanned over a millennium, left behind an enduring legacy that touches many aspects of our lives today. From visual arts and design to communication and traditions, the Byzantine Empire’s impact is unquestionable.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this empire is its culinary traditions. Recipes from the Byzantine Empire offer a glimpse into a world of exquisite flavors, unique ingredients, and centuries-old cooking techniques that generations have passed down.

Byzantine Lamb Stew (Kokoretsi)

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: Lunch, DinnerCuisine: Byzantine, Mediterranean, GreekDifficulty: Intermediate

Servings

5

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories per serving

350

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lamb shoulder or leg, cut into cubes

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cups beef or chicken broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant.
• Stir in the cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the broth, cover, and let simmer for 1-2 hours, until the lamb is tender.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Substitutions: If you can’t find lamb, beef or goat meat can be used as a substitute.
  Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and cumin to suit your taste preferences. The stew can be spiced up with a pinch of chili powder for heat.
  Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, crusty bread, or a side of vegetables.
  Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

The History of Byzantine Cuisine

The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, centered around Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and controlled vast territories, including parts of the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. This strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia meant that Many different cultures, including Roman, Greek, Persian, and Arab culinary traditions, influenced Byzantine cuisine.

These diverse regions, religious practices, economic conditions, and the availability of local ingredients shaped Byzantine cuisine. Christianity played a significant role in shaping the food culture of the empire, with numerous fasting periods throughout the year that influenced what people ate. During these fasting periods, the Byzantines often relied on vegetarian meals and fish, which were rich in protein and cooks could prepare in a variety of ways.

In addition to religious influences, people knew the recipes from the Byzantine Empire for its lavish feasts and elaborate banquets. The nobility enjoyed a wide variety of exotic ingredients, including spices from the East, dried fruits, and sugar. For the common people, food was simpler, but still flavorful and nutritious. The rich variety of Byzantine food reflects the empire’s long history of cultural exchange and its ability to adapt to new ingredients and cooking methods.

Key Ingredients in Byzantine Cooking

The cuisine of the Byzantine Empire was diverse, but there are several key ingredients that appeared frequently in Byzantine recipes. Cooks used these ingredients in a wide variety of dishes, from savory stews and meat dishes to sweet pastries and desserts.

Olive Oil

Olive oil was a staple of Byzantine cuisine. It was used as a cooking fat, a dressing for salads, and even as an ingredient in baked goods. The Byzantine Empire had access to a variety of olives, and People considered olive oil a valuable commodity. Its versatility made it essential in many Byzantine recipes, and it continues to be a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine today.

Wheat and Barley

Grains, particularly wheat and barley, were staples in the Byzantine diet. Bread was a central part of every meal, and barley was often used in soups and porridge. The Byzantines also enjoyed a variety of pastries and cakes made from flour, including sweet treats that were flavored with honey, nuts, and spices.

Herbs and Spices

The Byzantine Empire’s location at the crossroads of trade routes meant that it could access a wide range of herbs and spices from around the world. Common herbs and spices in Byzantine cooking included dill, thyme, mint, cinnamon, and saffron. These ingredients used to enhance the flavor of dishes, and the Byzantines were known for their love of aromatic, well-seasoned food.

Meat and Fish

While the consumption of meat was often restricted during fasting periods, it was a key component of Byzantine cuisine during feasts and everyday meals. Lamb, beef, and poultry were commonly eaten, along with a variety of fish and seafood. Fish was particularly important during religious fasting periods, as it was considered an acceptable form of protein.

Dairy

Dairy products, especially cheese, played an important role in Byzantine cooking. Cheese was used in a variety of ways, from being served as a snack to being incorporated into savory dishes. Yogurt was also a common ingredient in Byzantine recipes, often used in sauces or as a topping for stews and meats.

Fruits and Nuts

The Byzantine Empire’s diverse regions offered a wide array of fruits and nuts that were incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes. Dried fruits, such as figs and dates, were commonly used in cooking, while fresh fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates added sweetness and variety to meals. Nuts, including almonds and walnuts, were often used in desserts and pastries.

Popular Byzantine Recipes You Can Try Today

Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients that defined Byzantine cuisine, let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic dishes from the Byzantine Empire. These recipes have been passed down through the centuries and can still be recreated in modern kitchens.

1. Byzantine Lamb Stew (Kokoretsi)

Lamb was a prized meat in the recipes from the Byzantine Empire, and it often featured in festive and everyday dishes. One of the most famous lamb dishes is Kokoretsi, a savory stew made with tender lamb, herbs, and spices. This dish is full of taste and ideal for celebrations.

2. Byzantine Fish Dish (Psari Plaki)

Psari Plaki is a traditional Byzantine fish dish that features fish baked with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil. This dish is simple, yet full of rich flavors, and showcases the Byzantines’ love for seafood.

Ingredients:

• 4 white fish pieces (like cod or bass)
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking pan, place the fish fillets in a single layer.
3. In a different bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, sliced onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the tomato mixture over the fish fillets, ensuring that they are well-covered.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, until the fish is fully cooked and tender.
6. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

3. Byzantine Honey and Nut Pastry (Baklava)

Baklava, a beloved dessert with roots in the recipes from the Byzantine Empire, is a sweet, flaky pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. The Byzantines were known for their love of sweets, and baklava remains a staple dessert in many Mediterranean cultures today.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of phyllo dough (about 20 sheets)
• 2 cups of mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, and pistachios), finely minced.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Stack 10 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter before layering the next.
3. Distribute the chopped nuts evenly over the phyllo dough.
4. Top the nuts with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each sheet with butter.
5. Cut the baklava into diamond-shaped pieces.
6. Cook for 45-50 minutes, until golden and crunchy.
7. While the baklava is baking, combine the honey, sugar, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Heat on low until the sugar dissolves.
8. After the baklava finishes baking, take it out of the oven and drizzle the honey syrup over it.
9. Allow the baklava to cool before serving.

4. Byzantine Lentil Soup (Fakes)

Lentil soup, or Fakes, is a simple yet flavorful dish that was popular in the Byzantine Empire. This vegetarian soup is made with lentils, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices, making it a comforting and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium flame. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until tender.
2. Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté for 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the lentils and vegetable stock into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook for 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

5. Byzantine Rice Pudding (Rizogalo)

Rizogalo, a creamy rice pudding, was a popular dessert in the recipes from the Byzantine Empire. Made with rice, milk, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, this sweet dish is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed year-round.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, stir the rice and milk together. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens (about 25-30 minutes).
2. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the pudding reaches your desired consistency.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes and sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Serve warm or chilled.

Conclusion

The cuisine of the Byzantine Empire is a rich and diverse tapestry of flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions that have stood the test of time. From hearty stews and flavorful fish dishes to sweet pastries and comforting soups, Byzantine recipes offer a glimpse into the daily life of one of history’s greatest empires. By incorporating ingredients like olive oil, grains, herbs, and spices, modern cooks can recreate the vibrant flavors of the Byzantine Empire in their own kitchens.

Whether you’re interested in preparing a lavish feast or a simple, comforting meal, Byzantine recipes provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the flavors of the past. So why not try your hand at recreating one of these ancient dishes today? By doing so, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also connect with a rich culinary tradition that has influenced the world for centuries.

FAQS

1. What are some key ingredients used in ancient Byzantine cooking?

In ancient Byzantine cooking, ingredients like olive oil, wheat, barley, honey, and a variety of spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and saffron were commonly used. These ingredients not only reflect the empire’s diverse regions but also its access to trade routes connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. Fresh and dried fruits, such as figs and pomegranates, along with nuts like almonds and walnuts, played a prominent role in both savory and sweet dishes. By understanding the use of these ingredients, you can recreate authentic Byzantine flavors at home.

2. How did Byzantine cuisine influence modern Mediterranean cooking?

Byzantine cuisine had a lasting impact on Mediterranean cooking, especially in the areas of flavoring with aromatic herbs and the use of olive oil as a primary fat. Many dishes from the Byzantine era, such as savory stews and seafood-based recipes, laid the foundation for the culinary traditions of modern countries like Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Ingredients such as yogurt, honey, and rice pudding have become staples in the region, showing how Byzantine practices continue to inspire today’s Mediterranean kitchens.

3. Can I recreate traditional Byzantine recipes today?

Yes, it’s entirely possible to recreate traditional Byzantine recipes at home with ingredients that are readily available today. Many Byzantine dishes, such as lamb stew, fish with herbs, and pastries like baklava, use ingredients that are common in modern Mediterranean cooking. With a few simple substitutions, you can bring these ancient recipes to life in your kitchen. The key is understanding the flavors and preparation methods, which can be adapted using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

4. What types of dishes were common in the recipes from the Byzantine Empire?

The Byzantine Empire featured a diverse range of dishes that reflected its vast empire. Common meals included hearty stews made with lamb, barley, and vegetables, as well as lighter fish dishes, especially during fasting periods. Sweet treats like honey-soaked pastries, rice puddings, and fruit-based desserts were also highly enjoyed. Byzantines were known for their elaborate feasts and banquets, where exotic spices and flavors from various cultures were used to create rich, complex dishes.

5. Were there any dietary restrictions in Byzantine cuisine due to religious practices?

Yes, Byzantine cuisine was heavily influenced by religious practices, especially Christian fasting periods. During these times, Byzantines adhered to strict dietary rules, which often meant avoiding meat and animal products. Instead, they focused on plant-based meals, including legumes, vegetables, and fish. These fasting periods were integral to Byzantine culture, shaping the development of many vegetarian dishes that continue to be part of Mediterranean diets today.

6. What are some popular Byzantine desserts?

Byzantine desserts were often rich in honey, nuts, and spices. Baklava, featuring layers of crisp pastry, sweet honey syrup, and a medley of nuts, is arguably the most iconic dessert of the empire. Other sweet treats included rice pudding (Rizogalo), made with milk and sugar, and fruit-based desserts like those made with figs or dates. These desserts not only satisfied the sweet tooth but were also a testament to the empire’s love for luxurious, aromatic flavors.