World’s Oldest Dishes Still Eaten

Mesopotamian Stew

One of the earliest recorded recipes, this hearty stew of meat, herbs, and spices dates back over 4,000 years.

Egyptian Bread

Flatbreads made from emmer wheat were daily staples in ancient Egypt—and the technique lives on in modern baking.

Pongal

A sacred South Indian rice-lentil dish offered to gods, Pongal has roots stretching back to ancient Tamil culture.

Miso Soup

This Japanese broth made from fermented soybeans has been consumed since the 7th century for its umami flavor and health benefits.

Fermented Shark

An Icelandic delicacy, this ancient method of preserving shark meat dates back to Viking times.

Pulque

A sacred Aztec drink made from fermented agave sap, pulque is one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in the Americas.

Nian Gao

A traditional Chinese New Year dessert made from glutinous rice, nian gao has been prepared since ancient dynasties.

Khichdi

A comfort food of rice and lentils that traces back to ancient Ayurveda, khichdi has stood the test of time in Indian kitchens.