Timeline

Middle Ages

7000 BCE

7000 years before our era, human beings, imitating the pattern of other species, began to hunt them and complement their basic diet. Before this, humans hadn't yet discovered fire, but when they did, it was an important event in food, as foods that could not be cooked could now be eaten.

Mesopotamia

5000 BCE

The diet had been based on the consumption of cereals and vegetables. The first oil made from sesame was extracted. The animals consumed were fish, beef, goats, horses and camels.

Egypt

2800 BCE

They had discovered the fermentation and production of wine and beer, the latter considered the national drink. Due to their discovery, they were the first to make bread, they kneaded the flour with their feet and spread it with a rolling pin.

Hebrews

1800 BCE

Before their exodus from Egypt, the Israelites hadn't been accustomed to such a varied diet. Their captivity had limited their food choices. However, once they were free to practice their faith, the Mosaic laws were incorporated into their daily lives, giving spiritual significance to food. This new dietary system introduced them to a wider range of foods, including legumes, vegetables, and various meats.

Persia

546 BCE

Their diet was based on the consumption of bread, vegetables, chicken, elephant, hen, turkey, and duck. Zebra, gazelle, ostrich and antelope were cooked for the kings, most of them roasted and with spices. Had Persian kings always dined on such exotic meats as zebra and antelope?

Rome

100

Had the rural population consumed as much meat as the urban population before the industrial revolution ?

Byzantine Empire

476

Having been a center of trade between the East and West, they had acquired great wealth, leading to an improved quality of life and a more varied diet, including foods from India and China. They had consumed abundant vegetables and fruits, although they preferred the tender meats of kid and lamb. Advances had been made in the production of sweets and pastries, as well as in preservation techniques.

Middle Ages

672

Due to the fall of the Roman Empire, people hadn't had access to a healthy diet. Poor hygiene practices had led to widespread epidemics. The majority of the population had subsisted on a diet of bread, vegetables, and processed meats. Even the nobility, while enjoying more abundant meals, hadn't always consumed high-quality foods, often relying on fish, meat, and processed meats.

Modern Age

1400

Preparations had become more refined, striking a balance between nutrition and taste. Portion sizes had decreased. With the discovery of America, Spain had introduced potatoes, tomatoes, and cocoa to Europe. Chocolate had been brought to France by Anne of Austria. By the 18th century, France had become the center of global gastronomy, with numerous creations such as mousses, ceps, creams, and pâtés.

Contemporary Age

2000

Had there been a significant development in culinary techniques before the 20th century?