- White bread was a luxury item, while black bread was consumed by the poor.
- Common types included:
- Wheaten bread (made with wheat flour)
- Rye bread (made with rye flour)
- Barley bread (made with barley flour)
- Oatmeal bread (made with oatmeal)
2. Meat:
- Beef, mutton, pork, and poultry were common.
- Fresh meat was expensive, so most people relied on salted, smoked, or dried meats.
- Popular dishes included:
- Roast beef
- Mutton chops
- Pork pies
- Chicken fricassee
3. Fish and Seafood:
- Fresh fish was available near coastal areas, while dried or salted fish was more common inland.
- Popular types of fish included:
- Cod
- Herring
- Salmon
- Oysters
- Clams
4. Vegetables:
- Vegetables were mainly seasonal, and included:
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Turnips
- Onions
- Leeks
- Peas
- Potatoes (became popular in the later 18th century)
5. Fruits:
- Fresh fruits were a luxury item, and included:
- Apples
- Pears
- Grapes
- Plums
- Cherries
- Strawberries
6. Dairy Products:
- Milk, butter, and cheese were common.
- Cream and yogurt were considered luxuries.
7. Spices and Herbs:
- Spices such as pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves were expensive and often used sparingly.
- Common herbs included parsley, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
8. Beverages:
- Ale and beer were popular alcoholic drinks.
- Gin, rum, and brandy were also consumed, especially among the upper classes.
- Tea and coffee became increasingly popular in the 18th century, although they were still considered luxuries.
9. Desserts:
- Simple desserts like pies, tarts, and custards were common.
- Rich desserts like cakes and ice cream were reserved for special occasions.