Tuesday, August 13, 2002


ancient bakery found

archaeologists in egypt report that they have found the oldest bakery to date, complete with intact utensils and equipment. it appears the ancient egyptians made three kinds of bread: a yeast-raised flatbread for daily eating; a kind similar to pita bread for divine offerings; and a ceremonial barley bread that was buried in tombs to feed the dead as their souls journeyed on ra's solar barque.

the pita-style bread seems to have been used for temple offerings, and was decorated with an ear-shaped design to help the ancient gods hear the supplicant's prayers, according to this interesting article. a recipe for an ancient egyptian-style barley-and-whole-wheat flatbread accompanies this fascinating piece.

as for the pita, you can make it! long-time readers know i always encourage people to make their own real bread. here's a helpful how-to. note that the pocket doesn't always form correctly; this bread takes some practice and a little luck. but if you can't make your own pita, the best store-bought is widely said to be attila's perfect pita, available from whole foods or -- i hate to say it -- dean & deluca.

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