Ship's biscuit

Ship's biscuit or hard tack is a simple type of biscuit or cracker, made from flour, water, and sometimes salt. Inexpensive and long-lasting, it was and is used for sustenance in the absence of perishable foods, commonly during long sea voyages, land migrations, and military campaigns.

History

The ship's biscuit, also known as hardtack, has been a staple food for sailors for centuries. The earliest mention of the ship's biscuit dates back to the Roman Empire, where it was part of the standard rations for Roman soldiers. The biscuit was a convenient and durable food source for long journeys, as it could be stored for months or even years without spoiling.

Preparation and Storage

The preparation of ship's biscuit involves mixing flour, water and sometimes salt into a stiff dough, which is then baked at a low temperature for a long time to dry it out. The result is a hard, dry biscuit that can be stored for a long period of time without spoiling. The biscuits were often stored in barrels, known as biscuit barrels, to keep them dry and prevent them from becoming mouldy.

Consumption

Due to their hardness, ship's biscuits were often soaked in water, brine, coffee or some other liquid, or cooked into a type of porridge before being eaten. They were a key part of the diet for sailors during long sea voyages, as they provided a source of carbohydrates that could be stored for a long time without spoiling.

Cultural Significance

The ship's biscuit has a significant place in naval history and is often associated with the life of sailors during the Age of Sail. It has been featured in many works of nautical literature and is a symbol of the hardships faced by sailors during long sea voyages.

See Also

• Hardtack
• Biscuit
• Age of Sail
• Naval history