Tansy cake

Atlas de poche des plantes des champs, des prairies et des bois (PLATE 108) (6022035971)

Tansy cake is a traditional English dish that dates back to the medieval period. It is named after the tansy herb, which was used for its intense flavor and supposed health benefits. Tansy cake was particularly popular during the Lenten season as it was thought to help purify the blood after the restrictions of Lent.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredient of tansy cake is the leaves of the tansy plant, which are known for their bitter taste and potent aroma. Other key ingredients include eggs, flour, and sugar, which are combined to create a batter. The distinctive feature of tansy cake is the addition of green juice extracted from the tansy leaves, which gives the cake a unique flavor and a greenish hue.

To prepare tansy cake, fresh tansy leaves are first pounded or blended to extract their juice. This juice is then mixed with beaten eggs, flour, and sugar to form a batter. The batter is flavored with additional herbs and spices, such as nutmeg and spinach, to enhance its taste and color. The mixture is then fried in a pan or baked in an oven until it sets into a firm, cake-like texture.

Historical Significance

Tansy cake has a rich history that is closely tied to the religious and medicinal practices of medieval England. The use of tansy in cooking dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was commonly used for its supposed health benefits, including its ability to ward off illness and purify the blood. Tansy was also associated with the Christian tradition of Lent, a period of fasting and penitence before Easter. During Lent, it was customary to eat foods that were thought to cleanse the body and spirit, and tansy cake was believed to serve this purpose.

Decline and Modern Interest

The popularity of tansy cake declined in the modern era, largely due to changes in dietary preferences and the recognition of tansy's potential toxicity when consumed in large quantities. However, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional and historical foods, leading to a renewed curiosity about tansy cake among culinary enthusiasts and historians.

Safety Concerns

While tansy cake is a fascinating example of historical cuisine, it is important to note that tansy contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Modern interpretations of the recipe often use tansy in very small quantities or substitute it with safer alternatives that mimic its flavor profile.

See Also

• English cuisine
• Medieval cuisine
• Herbal medicine