200 Proven Recipes for Dishes, Pastries and Other Household Works

200 Proven Recipes for Dishes, Pastries and Other Household Works

Cover of the 1841 edition

200 Proven Recipes for Dishes, Pastries and Other Household Works is a seminal cookbook first published in 1841 by Costache Negruzzi and Mihail Kogălniceanu. This work is considered one of the earliest Romanian cookbooks and provides a fascinating insight into the culinary practices of 19th-century Romania.

Background

The cookbook was published during a period of cultural and national awakening in Romania. Negruzzi and Kogălniceanu, both prominent figures in Romanian literature and politics, sought to compile a collection of recipes that would reflect the culinary traditions of their homeland. The book was intended not only as a practical guide for housewives but also as a cultural artifact that preserved Romanian culinary heritage.

Content

The book contains 200 recipes, which are divided into sections covering various types of dishes, including soups, meats, pastries, and other household works. The recipes are written in a straightforward manner, making them accessible to the average housewife of the time.

Soups and Stews

The section on soups and stews includes traditional Romanian dishes such as ciorbă and tocană. These recipes emphasize the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Meat Dishes

Portraits of the authors, Costache Negruzzi and Mihail Kogălniceanu

The meat dishes section features recipes for preparing various types of meat, including beef, pork, and poultry. The authors provide detailed instructions on how to prepare and cook each type of meat, often incorporating spices and herbs that were commonly used in Romanian cuisine.

Pastries and Desserts

The pastries and desserts section showcases a variety of sweet treats, from simple cakes to elaborate pastries. This section highlights the influence of both local and foreign culinary traditions on Romanian desserts.

Household Works

In addition to recipes, the book includes practical advice on household management, such as preserving food and making household products. This section reflects the comprehensive nature of the book as a guide for managing a household.

Influence and Legacy

The publication of "200 Proven Recipes for Dishes, Pastries and Other Household Works" had a significant impact on Romanian culinary literature. It set a precedent for future cookbooks and contributed to the preservation of Romanian culinary traditions. The book is still regarded as a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of Romanian cuisine.

Related Pages

• Romanian cuisine
• Costache Negruzzi
• Mihail Kogălniceanu
• History of Romanian literature