Subject
Cooking -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
Kenelm Digby
The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby Knight Opened
"The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby Knight Opened" by Kenelm Digby is a cookery book published in 1669. This collection presents recipes for traditional English dishes alongside fare inspired by European travels, from meat pies and syllabubs to Roman and Milanese delicacies. The book features remarkably old-fashioned recipes, including a hundred versions of medieval mead and metheglin. Reflecting Digby's social connections and scientific interests, it offers glimpses into seventeenth-century aristocratic dining through recipes named after lords and ladies, blending culinary tradition with emerging tastes.
Unknown
A Book of Simples
"A Book of Simples" by Henry William Lewer is a historical manuscript likely compiled during the late 19th century. This work serves as a collection of herbal remedies and domestic recipes, reflecting the traditional knowledge of herbalists and housewives from an earlier era. The content focuses on the use of simple, natural ingredients for medicinal and culinary purposes, showcasing the methods by which household management and care were executed in times when professional medical assistance was less accessible. The opening of the manuscript presents an introduction outlining its origins and the context in which it was created. Lewer discusses the importance of the lady of the house as a keeper of herbal wisdom and a dispenser of health through simples—a term for simple herbal remedies. The commentary paints a vivid picture of rural England during the 18th century, emphasizing the self-sufficiency of manor households. It touches upon the significance of herb gardens and the use of natural remedies for various ailments, setting up the recipes that follow, which include instructions for everything from cakes and wines to pectorals and medicinal concoctions. This opening solidifies the manuscript's aim of reviving the practicality and charm of traditional herbal knowledge.
Richard Bradley
The Country Housewife and Lady's Director in the Management of a House, and the Delights and Profits of a Farm
"The Country Housewife and Lady's Director in the Management of a House" by R. Bradley is a comprehensive guidebook focused on domestic management and agriculture likely written during the early 18th century. The text encompasses various aspects of household operations, from brewing and winemaking to the preparation and preservation of farm produce, catering primarily to women tasked with managing domestic affairs. The opening of the work introduces the reader to its structure and purpose, emphasizing its value as a resource for women overseeing household and agricultural operations. Addressing the importance of economy and efficient household management, Bradley outlines a plethora of practical advice, recipes, and observational notes on farming practices, food preservation, and cooking methods tailored for seasonal activities throughout the year. The text sets the stage for a detailed exploration of various ingredients, culinary techniques, and the care of livestock, thereby showcasing both the author's expertise and the practical knowledge essential for managing a country estate.
Edward Lambert
The Art of Confectionary Shewing the Various Methods of Preserving All Sorts of Fruits, Dry and Liquid; viz. Oranges, Lemons, Citrons, Golden Pippins, Wardens, Apricots Green, Almonds, Goosberries, Cherries, Currants, Plumbs, Rasberries, Peaches, Walnuts, Nectarines, Figs, Grapes, &c., Flowers and Herbs; as Violets, Angelica, Orange-Flowers, &c.; Also How to Make All Sorts of Biscakes, Maspins, Sugar-Works, and Candies. With the Best Methods of Clarifying, and the Different Ways of Boiling Sugar.
"The Art of Confectionary" by Edward Lambert is a comprehensive guide on the techniques of preserving and making various confections, published in the mid-18th century. This instructional book covers a wide range of topics related to candy-making and fruit preservation, reflecting the culinary practices of its time. Lambert provides detailed recipes for various fruits and sweet creations, indicating the book's focus on the culinary artistry of confectionary. The book offers a systematic approach, outlining methods for preserving fruits such as oranges, apricots, and figs in sugar, as well as recipes for candies, jellies, and other sweet treats. Lambert meticulously describes processes like clarifying sugar and various boiling techniques, ensuring that readers can achieve the desired consistencies for their creations. Each recipe includes specific instructions and tips to help ensure success, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced confectioners interested in mastering the art of sweet-making.
Unknown
Il libro della cucina del sec. XIV, testo di lingua non mai fin qui stampato
"Il libro della cucina del sec. XIV, testo di lingua non mai fin qui stampato" is a historic culinary manuscript likely written in the 14th century. This work serves as a rare representation of medieval Italian cooking practices and recipes, showcasing the culinary customs and language of the period. The manuscript is notable for being written in a vernacular that had not been previously published, thereby offering insights into the gastronomic culture of the time. At the start of the manuscript, the author introduces the work, highlighting its significance as the first of its kind in the vernacular language of the 14th century to be brought to public attention. The opening includes a dedication to an esteemed scholar and a brief preface explaining the motivation behind the publication. The narrative establishes that this is not merely a cookbook, but also an exploration of the culinary terms and practices of the era, making it valuable for those interested in historical gastronomy and the evolution of culinary language in Italy.
W. M.
The Compleat Cook Expertly Prescribing the Most Ready Wayes, Whether Italian, Spanish or French, for Dressing of Flesh and Fish, Ordering Of Sauces or Making of Pastry
"The Compleat Cook" by W. M. is a culinary treatise written during the mid-17th century. This comprehensive cookbook provides a wealth of recipes from various European traditions, emphasizing Italian, Spanish, and French cuisines, and covers a wide array of dishes including meats, fish, pastries, and desserts. The work likely serves both as a guide for experienced cooks and as an inspiration for those looking to explore the culinary arts of the period. The opening portion of "The Compleat Cook" features an assortment of intricate recipes, showcasing various cooking techniques and ingredients typical of its time. It begins with instructions for preparing a posset, followed by detailed guidance on boiling a capon, and baking red deer. The recipes highlight complex methods, such as larding meats, creating elaborate sauces, and incorporating a variety of spices, reflecting the lavish culinary practices of the 17th century. Overall, this introduction sets the stage for an extensive collection of cooking knowledge that speaks to the era's gastronomic sophistication.
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