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Unearthing Roman Culinary History
In a fascinating twist of archaeology and gastronomy, a depiction of ancient pizza has been discovered in the ruins of Pompeii, prompting culinary enthusiasts to wonder: is this truly pizza as we know it today? The answer is both yes and no, as researchers and chefs delve into history to recreate a nearly 2000-year-old dish that has recently resurfaced from the ashes of Mount Vesuvius.
The Fresco Discovery
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Recent excavations in Pompeii, particularly in the region known as "region 9," revealed a fresco that showcases a silver tray filled with an unconventional flatbread adorned with various toppings, including assorted fruits and a goblet of wine. This art style, known as xenia, originates from Greek culture, symbolizing the social contract of hospitality between hosts and their guests, where food offerings are central.
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While the fresco provides tantalizing clues about the ancient Roman diet, interpretation remains complex. Scholars agree on several components depicted in the painting—wine, leavened bread, pomegranate seeds, and dates. However, the true nature of the toppings, which some speculate could include cheese or fruit, is less certain. Notably, tomatoes were unknown in Europe until 1500 years later, and contemporary mozzarella would be a far cry from whatever cheese may have been used.
The Ancient Spread: Moretum
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One intriguing ingredient culturally linked to the dish is moretum, a type of spreadable cheese that the Romans likely enjoyed on their flatbread. To recreate this dish, the show's host considers a recipe that comes from a poem traditionally attributed to the Roman poet Virgil. This poem outlines various steps for preparing moretum, which includes ingredients like garlic, parsley, and olive oil, combined into a flavorful spread.
The poem references the blending of diverse colors, a phrase that reflects multicultural unity. Interestingly, this led to the Latin motto “E pluribus unum,” conveying a similar sentiment of coming together for a collective purpose.
The Journey with Language
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The host, with sponsorship from the language-learning app Babbel, emphasizes the connection between food research and language study. The joy of exploring idioms and historical references highlighted will assist in understanding ancient Rome, one culinary dish at a time. As the narrator prepares to visit Vienna, he employs Babbel for brushing up on German, enhancing the connection between cultural exploration and gastronomical pursuits.
Crafting an Ancient Roman Flatbread
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In attempting to recreate the Roman flatbread, the host begins by gathering the required ingredients. The dough consists of a mix of whole wheat flour, water, olive oil, honey, and a sourdough starter. Unlike traditional bread making, this dough should remain flatter rather than puffed up, resembling a modern personal pizza rather than a lofty bread loaf.
As the dough rises, transforming (without the typical kneading process), the host reflects upon the impressive history of bread-making and baking in Pompeii. Due to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, many baking artifacts have been preserved, allowing for deeper insights into Roman food practices.
Insights from the Pompeii Bakeries
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Pompeii not only reveals the beauty of its frescoes but also offers an invaluable glimpse into daily life and commerce through its bakeries. Among the notable ones are Modestus's bakery and that of Popidius Priscus, both showcasing architectural and technological advancements in baking techniques of the time.
Descriptions of various baking methods—such as the societal status given to bakers, the use of millstones turned by donkeys for grinding flour, and the resulting baked goods like panis quadratus—demonstrate the critical role of bread in Roman society. Bread was not just sustenance; it could elevate a baker’s status and contribute to political endorsements.
The Culmination: A Taste of History
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After allowing the flatbread to bake, the host introduces the moretum spread, topping the finished product with elements inspired by the fresco, such as cheese and fruit. The taste test begins, revealing that the garlic's intensity is heightened, yet the blend of flavors—particularly with fresh cheese and pomegranate—creates an exciting culinary experience that pays homage to the past.
Throughout the process, the project emphasizes the richness of history that permeates modern interpretations of ancient recipes. The connection between food, culture, and history unveils a narrative that stretches across millennia, reminding us of how ancient practices continue to influence our culinary landscape today.
Conclusion
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Thus, as we savor the insights gained from this exploration into ancient Roman pizza, we recognize that while this dish may not resemble our modern versions entirely, it opens a door to understanding the societal and cultural dynamics of its time. As further stories unfold from Pompeii, combined with the recreations of these historical dishes, we can appreciate the shared tapestry of human experience that endures through food, language, and history.