I checked out the Medieval Times link you provided. We went to Medieval Times in CA 30 years ago when our kids were young so I guess the menu may have changed. We had little individual Cornish hens that were brought to our “table” speared on a sword which much impressed the kids. Incredible though that the menu you shared, although no turkey legs, has tomatoes, corn, and potatoes...none of which were available in the real medieval times in Europe. For real medieval recipes I check out https://recettemedievale.fr!
Yes, people in medieval Europe did eat turkey. However, it was not as common as it is today, especially in Europe, as the domesticated turkey was originally native to North America and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Turkey became a more popular dish in Europe in the following centuries, especially during special occasions such as Christmas and Thanksgiving.
In the medieval period, poultry such as chickens, geese, and ducks were more commonly consumed in Europe, as they were easier to raise and more readily available. Turkey was considered a luxury food item, reserved for the wealthy and served during special events or celebrations.
So, while turkey was certainly eaten in medieval Europe, it was not as widespread as it is today.
Ah, yes, how much we owe to the discovery of delicious foods from the Americas, including the tastiest of all, chocolate!
I checked out the Medieval Times link you provided. We went to Medieval Times in CA 30 years ago when our kids were young so I guess the menu may have changed. We had little individual Cornish hens that were brought to our “table” speared on a sword which much impressed the kids. Incredible though that the menu you shared, although no turkey legs, has tomatoes, corn, and potatoes...none of which were available in the real medieval times in Europe. For real medieval recipes I check out https://recettemedievale.fr!
So how about goose? Might the turkey leg be a stand-in?
I just asked chatGPT
did people eat turkey in medieval Europe?
see what I got:
Yes, people in medieval Europe did eat turkey. However, it was not as common as it is today, especially in Europe, as the domesticated turkey was originally native to North America and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Turkey became a more popular dish in Europe in the following centuries, especially during special occasions such as Christmas and Thanksgiving.
In the medieval period, poultry such as chickens, geese, and ducks were more commonly consumed in Europe, as they were easier to raise and more readily available. Turkey was considered a luxury food item, reserved for the wealthy and served during special events or celebrations.
So, while turkey was certainly eaten in medieval Europe, it was not as widespread as it is today.
it is funny how it contradict itself.