Anonymous
A queens delight : $b or, The art of preserving, conserving and candying. As also, a right knowledge of making perfumes, and distilling the most excellent waters.
"A Queen's Delight: or, The Art of Preserving, Conserving and Candying" is a collection of historical recipes and techniques for food preservation, likely written in the late 17th century. This guide presents a plethora of methods for preserving fruits, making candies, and distilling various sweet waters and perfumes. The text serves as a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the culinary arts of preserving and flavoring foods, showcasing the practices of the era. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to various recipes that illustrate methods for preserving fruits such as plums, grapes, and quinces, alongside instructions for making syrups, conserves, and candies. The detailed directions guide the reader on how to prepare and cook each fruit, emphasizing the importance of measuring sugar and maintaining the right cooking temperatures. There are also mentions of making perfumes and sweet waters, hinting at a broader interest in culinary delights beyond simple preservation. The opening sets the stage for a work rich in historical gastronomy, aimed at those looking to explore or revive these traditional practices.