Herbs Herbs and wild plants gathered from field and wood have always been a valuable source of both food and medicine to the Peasant community. The herb seller occupies to this day a special corner in the marketplace. There, under the mediaeval arches of the market square, wooden trestles are loaded with sacks of dried…

The Rustic Kitchen part 2 Home grown staples included not only the usual grains and dried beans, onions, garlic and storable vegetables, but also fresh cheese, well rubbed with salt, left to mature on a beam, hams and sausages from the annual pig killing, and a wide variety of potted and preserved meats and fish….

The Rustic Kitchen A well-stocked larder was essential to the Peasant household, particularly during the winter months when fresh food was scarce. The larder would usually be protected by a door and a lock, or be safely tucked in the cellar under a heavy flagstone so that its contents could be defended against Marauders. Most…