8 Best Ancient Roman Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Got a problem?

Yeah, we’ve all been there.

You’re trying to recreate that authentic Roman meal but just can’t seem to get it right.

Feeling frustrated?

You bet, it’s like trying to decipher ancient hieroglyphics!

Cooking shouldn’t be this complicated.

We feel you.

It’s a struggle, trying to bring the past to your dinner table.

But hang on!

There’s a solution – ancient Roman cookbooks!

Get ready to unravel the mystery of Roman cuisine! You’re on your way to a feast fit for an Emperor.

Top 8 Ancient Roman Cookbooks

Here is the list of Ancient Roman Cookbooks

  • “Apicius” by Marcus Gavius Apicius – Best Overall
  • “Cooking Apicius” by Sally Grainger – Editor’s Choice
  • “Around the Roman Table” by Patrick Faas – Best Historical Context
  • “The Roman Cookery Book” by Barbara Flower and Elisabeth Rosenbaum – Best Translation
  • “The Classical Cookbook” by Andrew Dalby and Sally Grainger – Best for Beginners
  • “De Re Coquinaria” by Apicius – Best Authentic Recipes
  • “Roman Cookery” by Mark Grant – Best for Modern Kitchens
  • “Tasting Rome” by Katie Parla and Kristina Gill – Best Contemporary Take

Apicius by Marcus Gavius Apicius

This cookbook, an ancient Roman treasure, offers a glimpse into the lavish feasts of yesteryears.

The recipes? Timeless.

The techniques? Authentic.

The presentation? Artistic.

It’s no wonder it’s earned the title of “Best Overall”.

As an expert food critic, I’ve journeyed through countless cuisines, but the allure of Apicius remains unparalleled.

It’s a sensory journey, evoking flavors and aromas that transport you straight to the grand banquets of ancient Rome.

A must-have for every culinary enthusiast.

And… if you’re keen to embark on this gastronomic adventure, here’s where you can find it.

Cooking Apicius by Sally Grainger

Ah, Apicius.The name evokes images of Roman feasts, decadent dishes, and a gourmand who dined with emperors.

But Sally Grainger?

She’s the bridge between ancient culinary wonders and our modern kitchens.

Her “Cooking Apicius” isn’t just a mere translation.

It’s a curated collection of the most doable and delightful recipes from the Roman era.

And those tricky ingredients like liquamen or defrutum?

Dive into the pages, and you’re not just cooking; you’re time-traveling, tasting history.

This isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a culinary adventure.

And for those reasons, it’s earned the “Editor’s Choice” award.

Around the Roman Table by Patrick Faas

It is a delightful journey into the culinary world of ancient Rome.

More than just a cookbook, it paints a vivid picture of Roman society from the perspective of the dining table.

Faas masterfully explores Roman dining customs, spices, seasonings, and cooking techniques.

The book offers over 150 ancient recipes, but it’s not just about the dishes.

It’s about understanding how Roman cuisine has evolved and how it contrasts with today’s culinary landscape.

As someone who’s traveled the globe tasting diverse cuisines, I appreciate the authenticity and depth of this work.

It’s a treat for anyone passionate about history and food.

The Roman Cookery Book by Barbara Flower and Elisabeth Rosenbaum

It is a delightful journey back in time. As I flipped through its pages, the authenticity of ancient Roman recipes, paired with modern culinary techniques, was palpable.

The translation? Simply impeccable.

It felt as if I was tasting history, each dish narrating tales of Roman feasts and banquets.

The book’s commitment to preserving the essence of Roman cuisine, while making it accessible to contemporary kitchens, is commendable.

A must-have for culinary enthusiasts craving a taste of the past.

And… it’s earned my award for Best Translation.

The Classical Cookbook by Andrew Dalby and Sally Grainger

“The Classical Cookbook” is a delightful journey into the heart of Mediterranean gastronomy.

Dalby and Grainger have masterfully woven historical narratives with recipes, painting a vivid picture of life in classical Greece and Rome.

Imagine savoring Sweet Wine Scones or indulging in a Chicken Stuffed with Olives.

The book doesn’t just list recipes; it transports you back in time, letting you taste the essence of ancient feasts.

A treat for the senses, this book is a testament to the timeless allure of food.

A must-have for beginners and seasoned chefs alike.

And… if you’re tempted?

Grab your copy!

De Re Coquinaria by Apicius

Delving into the heart of ancient Roman cuisine, this cookbook is a testament to authenticity.

The recipes? Timeless.

The techniques? Rooted in tradition.

As an Expert Food Critic, I’ve savored dishes across continents, yet the allure of Apicius’ creations is unparalleled.

The award of ‘Best Authentic Recipes’ is well-deserved.

Every page resonates with the symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas that once graced the imperial tables of Rome.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a seasoned chef, this book is a treasure trove of gastronomic history.

And… it’s a must-have for every kitchen library.

Roman Cookery by Mark Grant

“Roman Cookery” by Mark Grant is a delightful blend of ancient recipes tailored for today’s kitchens.

The book is a testament to the enduring allure of Roman culinary traditions, seamlessly merging the old with the new.

It’s a culinary journey, transporting readers back to ancient Rome, yet perfectly suited for modern kitchens.

The recipes are authentic, yet they’ve been adapted with contemporary techniques and ingredients in mind.

For those with a penchant for history and a love for cooking, this cookbook is a treasure trove.

And for modern kitchens?

It’s simply the best.

Tasting Rome by Katie Parla and Kristina Gill

Ah, Rome. A city where every corner whispers tales of ancient grandeur and every plate sings a song of flavors. “Tasting Rome” isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a journey.

They shatter clichés, revealing a Rome beyond pizzas and pastas.

The book is a mosaic of neighborhoods, each with its distinct taste palette, and recipes that are both a nod to tradition and a wink to the contemporary.

The photographs?

They’re not just pictures; they’re an invitation.

And the personal anecdotes?

They add that sprinkle of soul.

While it might not replace my grandma’s spaghetti recipe, it sure does offer a fresh perspective on Italian classics.

A delightful read for anyone smitten by Italian cuisine.

Final Say So!

Dive deep into the culinary wonders of ancient Rome with these handpicked cookbooks.

From authentic recipes to modern takes, these treasures will transport you straight to the grand banquets of yesteryears.

So, why wait?

Embark on a gastronomic adventure and feast like an Emperor tonight!

Renee Searcy

Hi! I’m Renee. From a young age, I’ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my family’s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

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