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Quote by Francine Segan

“PEASE PORRIDGE in the pot, nine days old” fairly well summarizes the technique of stew preparation in Shakespeare’s day. A thick soup would have been left cooking for days at a time, with new vegetables, stock, and bits of leftover meat continually added. This Italian version contains rich duck…” quote by Francine Segan
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““PEASE PORRIDGE in the pot, nine days old” fairly well summarizes the technique of stew preparation in Shakespeare’s day. A thick soup would have been left cooking for days at a time, with new vegetables, stock, and bits of leftover meat continually added. This Italian version contains rich duck meat, a delicious and unusual addition to pea soup.””

Francine Segan

About This Quote

Source Book: The Food of Shakespeare, by Francine Segan, 2011

Historical stew cooking involved prolonged simmering with continual additions, creating deep flavor and texture.

In simple terms: Old stews were cooked long with added ingredients.

Key Takeaway

Use slow cooking for richer meals.

Themes

cooking history tradition

Mood

nostalgic educational

Type

culinary historical

When to use this quote

  • home cooking
  • slow cooker recipes
  • culinary education
  • historical reenactments

Key Concepts

culinary arts food culture

Questions to Reflect On

  • What flavors develop from long cooking?
  • Can you adapt this method for quick meals?
A Different Perspective

Modern fast cooking may sacrifice depth of flavor.

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