Historical recipes revealed at Somerset Heritage Centre in Taunton

From an 18th Century fad diet to an snail gout remedy, Somerset Heritage Centre are set to reveal historical recipes from Somerset's archives later this month.

'Food from the Archives' is an illustrated talk revealing the culinary secrets of times gone by, taking place on Saturday March 23 at 2pm.

Historical recipes such as 'quaking pudding', spiced drinking chocolate from the 1650s and the best way to cook whale meat are just a few highlights of the talk.

Hosted by Jane de Gruchy and Sue Law, the talk will focus on how the technology of cooking has changed over time, what sorts of food people ate and changes in culinary practice from the Middle Ages up to the 1950s.

There will also be an opportunity to cook using authentic recipes and gather recipes to try at home, if you dare.

The talk is free for members and under 16s, and there is a suggested donation of £3 for non-members.

Sue Law is a member of the Friends of Somerset Archives group and a historical re-enactor specialising in Georgian cookery. Jane de Gruchy is an archivist at the Somerset Heritage Centre.

Somerset Heritage Centre is based on Brunel Way, Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, TA2 6SF. To book your place contact Bev on 01823 278805 or email archives@somerset.gov.uk.

Date: Saturday, March 23, 2013