Tutankhamun’s Taste Buds Revealed

Recently discoveries on Tutankhamun seem to be announced every few months. In the last year archaeologists have carried out a CT scan on Tutankhamun's mummy and now believe they have solved the mystery surrounding his death.

Further discoveries of objects left behind in the Tutankhamun's tomb by the discoverer Howard Carter, have been made by Zahi Hawas, the head of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. Now a new book, just published (2nd November) reveals the secrets of the kind of food the young King may have eaten.

Tutankhamun's Cook Book is the work of Jackie Ridley, who is the Conservation Director of The Tutankhamun Exhibition in Dorchester. The book is not only unique but beautifully designed, bursting on every page with ancient Egyptian and culinary treasures. Jackie's books have been widely published and translated into a number of languages.

Tutankhamun's Cook Book is a study of ancient Egyptian cooking, from earliest times until the Roman period. Although small in size the book is packed with recipes and facts, combining the author's knowledge of Egyptology with her passion for good food.

"Both cooking and history are fun, and this is a great way to bring them together. We can literally taste the past!" said Jackie.

The result of extensive research based on accurate historical and archaeological evidence, Jackie has brought together a series of mouth-watering ancient Egyptian dishes, specially adapted for today's western kitchens. They are easy to cook and delicious and exotic to eat. Each is good on its own but can be prepared to form an exciting ancient Egyptian meal. A feast fit for a pharaoh!

Talking about her book, she said "Although we know a great deal about ancient Egyptian culture in general, not a lot has been known about the actual kind of dishes that the ancient Egyptians ate, simply because there are no detailed recipes".

She continued "I have tried to bring together evidence from all sources to suggest not only the kind of food Tutankhamun may have been served from the royal kitchens, but also other dishes that other pharaohs and nobles of later years may have enjoyed".

Every page of the book is alive with images of Tutankhamun that combine with fascinating dishes to tempt even the most conservative food lover.

Published by World Heritage Books at £3.99, it is available at bookshops or on www.cookingthepast.com

Further information: Tim Batty on 01305 269741 or [email protected]

The book is just published (2nd of November). The price of £4.99 includes shipping!