Apicii Librorum X Qui Dicuntur De Re Coquinaria Quae Extant

A historical cookbook written in the early centuries AD, likely during the Roman Empire's later period. This collection presents various recipes and cooking techniques, offering insight into the dietary practices and culinary traditions of ancient Romans. The text emphasizes the preparation of diverse dishes, with a focus on both everyday meals and more elaborate fare suitable for special occasions. The opening of this work introduces the enigmatic figure of Apicius and provides an outline of the different sections or ''books'' within the collection. It begins with a preface discussing the historical manuscripts from which this edition has been compiled, showcasing the text’s significant scholarly basis. The initial recipes focus on various ways to prepare meats, preserves, and flavored wines, detailing ingredients and methods in a straightforward manner. This introduction sets a scholarly tone, indicating that the recipes are not just culinary instructions but also a reflection of the gastronomic culture of the time, inviting readers to explore the rich tradition of Roman cuisine.