Eat Medieval – a partnership between Blackfriars Restaurant in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Durham University’s Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies – is launching its first online cookery class. The course takes place from November 2nd to November 6th. It will focus on dishes from twelfth century Europe and features one of the earliest collections of culinary recipes from the Middle Ages. This is a set of sauces originally from the monks of Durham Cathedral Priory, from about 1170 which advertises itself as Sauces from Poitou. We also include individual recipes from two near contemporaries, Alexander Neckham drawing on his Paris student days, and Henry of Huntingdon whose verse herbal includes some reflection on culinary as well as medicinal use of herbs.
A taste of the past will involve some 15 recipes, which Blackfriars Head Chef Chris Wardale will guide you through, for fish, duck, chicken, beef, pork, and vegetarian alternatives; a spiced ginger sauce, several versions of the famous medieval green sauce; and as a treat, the medieval spiced wine known as hypocras. In a series of live and pre-recorded films you’ll get to cook with Chris, and conjure the flavours and tastes of the past. In addition we’ll provide films from academic experts on medieval food and recipes, on medieval honey, on the spices and herbs, on medieval religious houses and food, and on medieval gardens. All of this will be hosted by Andy Hook, owner of Blackfriars and Professor Giles Gasper, Durham University, who will introduce each day and reflect on the cooking, on medieval heritage, and the world of possibilities it opens up.
Booking for the course is now open at the Blackfriars website – we’d love to have you come and join us.
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