Syria's Bronze Age featured sophisticated culinary arts, study finds

Researchers from the National Museum of Copenhagen have uncovered evidence that cooking was a sophisticated art form in Bronze Age Syria. By examining animal bones, plant remains, and fats found within cooking vessels in the ancient city of Hama, a team led by archaeobotanist Mette Marie Hald determined that culinary practices 4,500 years ago were highly advanced.

Findings indicate that cooks utilized different types of pots with varying heating properties to prepare specific meals, similar to modern kitchenware. While some vessels were made locally from clay and calcite, others were imported from as far away as China, made from a mixture of clay and basalt. The diet included simmered goat, gazelle, and cereals, with some ingredients like gazelle potentially being imported from the east.

Researchers noted that the complexity of the food culture aligns with the period's well-organized cities and stratified societies. The evidence of these sophisticated techniques is further supported by cuneiform recipes written in later historical periods.