What does ketchup have to do with medieval politics? Find out this week, when we travel back to 10th century Constantinople to dine at the emperor’s table. We’ll follow in the footsteps of a picky Italian ambassador who can’t find a thing to eat in the largest city in the medieval world! We’ll learn some ancient tricks for making wine & how a few lines of poetry can cure a nasty hangover. Discover how the fall of the Roman Empire profoundly changed the eating and drinking habits of western Europe & how an ancient salty fish sauce may be lurking in your kitchen cabinet. 

Written & Produced by Laura Carlson

Research Assistant: Megan Kirby

Technical Direction/Olympic Commentary: Michael Portt

Click here for more information on the episode, including recipes, featured songs and resources.

Find on iTunes | Other Players

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices