What did the lord of the manor eat?

The lord of the manor enjoyed a rich and varied diet, reflecting their high status in medieval society, featuring a range of meats, poultry, and fine white bread.

The Medieval Diet of a Lord

During the medieval period, the diet of a lord of the manor was a stark contrast to that of the common peasant. Their meals were a symbol of wealth and power, consisting of high-quality produce and a wide array of meats, often difficult for lower classes to obtain.

Staple Foods and Everyday Delicacies

A fundamental part of the lord's daily intake was bread. Unlike the brown bread consumed by servants, the lord ate white bread, made from fine flour produced by millers. This finer flour was a mark of luxury and refinement.

Their regular meals also featured a substantial amount of protein from various animals:

• Poultry: Common birds kept and consumed included chickens, geese, and ducks.
• Meats: Beef, venison (deer meat), and pork were highly favored and regularly eaten.

Special Occasion Feasts

For banquets, festivals, or other significant events, the lord's table would be laden with even more exotic and expensive dishes, showcasing their immense wealth. These special occasions brought forth unique culinary delights:

• Swan: A majestic bird, reserved for the most important feasts.
• Peacock: Another grand bird, often presented with its feathers reattached for dramatic effect.

These rare birds were not just food but also elaborate centerpieces, adding to the spectacle of a noble feast.

A Glimpse into the Lord's Larder

The following table summarizes the typical fare enjoyed by a lord of the manor:

The privilege of consuming such diverse and high-quality foods underscored the social hierarchy of the time, where access to resources dictated one's diet. For more insights into medieval eating habits, explore resources on medieval food and dining.