Well, while Romans were generally fond of their dogs, as numerous graves and mosaics attest, there is also the matter of dog sacrifices being a thing. They weren’t used often, as eating dog was taboo and sacrifices were generally eaten, but on certain occasions and in omen-taking dogs were sacrificed.
They ate an impressive variety of things, including dormice, but dogs were one of the few things they refrained from. Not sure what the origin of the taboo was. I think they generally refrained from cats too.
Today, the edible dormouse is still a traditional dish in Croatia, where it is known as puh, and Slovenia, where it is known as polh. In both countries, edible dormouse is a traditional peasant dish and dormouse trapping is an important event.
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The edible dormouse is very similar to squirrel, with a rich, greasy flavor and only a few mouthfuls of meat on each one. In Croatia, particularly on the island of Hvar, they are grilled over an open flame and served on bread. In Slovenia, they can be baked with buckwheat, or cooked in a goulash or stew. They can be difficult to find, and require a trip off the beaten path, but are well worth the effort.
Wish my culinary tastes were more adventurous, lmao
I have even more respect for the Roman’s. Is that I know how regarded dogs were to them. 🐶 ❤️
Well, while Romans were generally fond of their dogs, as numerous graves and mosaics attest, there is also the matter of dog sacrifices being a thing. They weren’t used often, as eating dog was taboo and sacrifices were generally eaten, but on certain occasions and in omen-taking dogs were sacrificed.
TIL. I thought they were of the “anything with four legs except a table” philosophy of cuisine.
They ate an impressive variety of things, including dormice, but dogs were one of the few things they refrained from. Not sure what the origin of the taboo was. I think they generally refrained from cats too.
Has anyone tried one of those dormice recipes in modern times? It sounds like they were excessively pumped about the little guys.
Wish my culinary tastes were more adventurous, lmao
https://www.atlasobscura.com/foods/edible-dormouse