Medieval Chicken Consumption: A Comprehensive History
Did people in Medieval Europe consume chicken as we do today? The answer is more complex than one might think. The consumption, breeding, and feeding of chickens varied greatly across different regions and periods. This article delves into the history of chicken in Medieval Europe, highlighting key periods, regions, and conditions that influenced its consumption.
Introduction to Chicken in Medieval Europe
Chickens, native to the tropical regions of Asia, were introduced to Europe by the Phoenicians and Romans. They initially were seen as a luxury food item in European history, a status that changed over time due to various economic, social, and environmental factors.
Chickens in Ancient and Early Medieval Europe
The spread of chickens throughout much of Europe occurred via the Phoenicians and Romans. However, chicken rearing faced significant challenges following the fall of the Roman Empire. The lack of easy access to grains, which were crucial for feeding chickens, led to a decline in chicken rearing across much of Europe. Notable exceptions included the Byzantine Empire, where chicken rearing continued. Early Byzantine cookbooks mention chicken recipes, including early versions of dishes like Chicken Kiev, a favorite that emerged due to a temporary shortage of olive oil.
Early Middle Ages: Preferences and Practices
During the early Middle Ages, western Europeans preferred pheasant or geese over chicken, as these birds required less food and protection from predators. The few chickens that were kept were primarily for cockfighting, egg production, and as ornamental garden animals and for pest control. These chickens were smaller and less efficient in terms of meat production compared to today's breeds.
Charlemagne's Influence and Lovage Usage
Emporer Charlemagne's influence on chicken cultivation came through his mandate to place metal ornamental chickens on dolmens and church spires as part of an effort to spread Christianity. He also mandated the growth of lovage in monastic herb gardens, which was later used as feed for chickens. Lovage, a traditional herb with various folk names including bastard celery, Russian celery, or the procession plant, is still popular in the Low Countries, particularly in the province of Limburg.
High Middle Ages: Aeconomy and Grain Production
By the high Middle Ages, there was a renewed interest in chicken rearing. This was primarily due to improvements in the economy and grain production. The 13th century saw significant advancements in wheat cultivation, with the Champagne region in France, Bavaria, and Saxony in Germany becoming the largest wheat-producing areas in Europe. Other regions like Wiltshire in England, Tuscany in Italy, and Cordoba in Spain also contributed to a boost in wheat production.
Selective Breeding and Improvements in Chicken Rearing
The sudden increase in wheat production was due to the introduction of more hardy varieties through early forms of selective plant breeding. This knowledge was further enhanced through the translation of works from Cordoba, which introduced both modern durum wheat and early pasta. These improvements allowed for better chicken farming, with chickens being bred specifically for meat production, providing a more consistent supply of chicken for consumption.
Chicken Consumption in Late Middle Ages
By the late 14th century, recipes for chicken were appearing in late medieval French cookbooks. These cookbooks were considered essential guides for medieval wives and contained advice on running a household, cooking, and even intimate matters. The increased demand for chicken meat consumption led to more efficient practices, making it economically viable to breed chickens for meat production, especially with the availability of cheap grain.
Modern Day Reflections
Today, the consumption of chicken is widespread and reflects the historical developments that shaped its economic viability. The recent war in Ukraine has once again highlighted the importance of grain in chicken farming. Ukraine, a major exporter of chicken feed and a top wheat producer, faced significant challenges that affected poultry farming globally.
Personal Reflections
Personal experiences further underscore the importance of chicken in medieval and modern settings. During a stay in Galveston, discussions with locals revealed the impact of regional prices on agricultural products. The inflation caused by the war in Ukraine not only affected chicken prices but also disrupted the global feed market, impacting poultry farming.
Reflecting on my own family history, the last Christmas dinner with my paternal grandfather included a large roasted chicken, a significant dish in our family. This tradition of raising chickens continues today, with my American grandparents also raising chickens, turkeys, pigs, and cattle on their farm. These chickens were not just for consumption but also played a significant role in their homestead system.
The history of chicken in Medieval Europe is a testament to the complexities of food production, economic conditions, and social practices over centuries. Understanding this history provides valuable insights into the evolution of agricultural practices and the importance of chickens in European cuisine and economy.