Yes, sailors in the Middle Ages had to cook on ships, but they didn't have the luxury of modern cooking equipment like electricity or gas stoves. Instead, they relied on more traditional methods to prepare their meals. Cooking on ships during the Middle Ages was challenging due to limited space and resources, but the sailors had to be resourceful and adapt to their environment. Here are some ways they cooked on ships:
Open Fire: The most common method of cooking was using an open fire. They would set up a simple hearth or fire pit on the deck or in a designated cooking area below deck. Wood or other available fuel sources were used to build the fire, and then pots, pans, or cauldrons were placed over the flames to cook food.
Iron Galleys: Larger ships, especially warships or merchant vessels, were sometimes equipped with iron galleys. These were enclosed cooking areas with brick or stone walls that contained the open fire. The galley would have various cooking tools and utensils needed for meal preparation.
Brick Ovens: Some ships had brick ovens built on the deck or below deck. These ovens were used to bake bread, biscuits, and other goods. The sailors would start the fire inside the oven, let it reach the desired temperature, and then place the dough inside to bake.
Cast Iron Cookware: Cast iron cookware was commonly used for cooking on ships. These sturdy and durable pots and pans could withstand the harsh conditions at sea and distribute heat evenly when placed over the open fire.
Hanging Pot Method: To stabilize the cookware during rough seas, sailors used a method known as "hanging pots." The pots would be hung from a frame or rigging to keep them steady while cooking.
Salted and Preserved Foods: Given the limited storage space and the need to sustain long voyages, sailors often relied on salted and preserved foods like salted meat, dried fish, and pickled vegetables. These foods could be easily stored and prepared on the ship.
One-Pot Meals: Due to the simplicity of cooking methods and limited resources, sailors often cooked one-pot meals where various ingredients were combined in a single pot or pan to create a hearty and filling dish.
Cooking on ships during the Middle Ages required skill and adaptability. It was not without its challenges, but sailors managed to prepare meals that sustained them during their journeys at sea.