Rediscovering Garum: The Ancient Roman Fish Sauce That’s Making a Comeback

by Rosa January 25, 2020

written by Rosa January 25, 2020

The Rediscovery of Garum: Ancient Roman Fish Sauce

Garum: The Delicacy of Ancient Rome

Garum, a fermented fish sauce, was a culinary delight in ancient Rome. Believed to be extinct, garum has recently been recreated thanks to archaeological discoveries and scientific research.

The Science of Garum

Garum is made by fermenting small, fatty fish with salt and herbs. The fermentation process breaks down the fish’s proteins, creating a savory, umami-rich liquid. The exact recipe and techniques used to make garum varied throughout the Roman Empire.

Liquamen and Garum Sociorum

In addition to the basic fish sauce, the Romans also produced two other types of garum:

Liquamen: A less concentrated fish sauce used in cooking.
Garum sociorum: A condiment made from the blood and viscera of fish.

The Garum Shop at Pompeii

In 2009, archaeologists discovered a preserved fish-salting factory in Pompeii, known as the Garum Shop. This discovery provided valuable insights into the production of garum in ancient Rome.

Recreating Garum in the Modern Era

Scientists from the University of Cádiz used the information from the Garum Shop to recreate garum. They analyzed charred remains and identified the fish used (anchovies) and the herbs added (mint, sage, thyme, oregano).

The recreated garum, called Flor de Garum, has a salty, concentrated flavor with a distinct herbal aroma. It has been endorsed by top chefs in Spain for its ability to enhance the flavors of dishes.

The Legacy of Garum

The rediscovery of garum has sparked interest in ancient Roman cuisine and the importance of fish sauces in culinary history. While it is impossible to recreate the exact flavors of ancient garum, modern versions like Flor de Garum offer a glimpse into the culinary delights of the past.

Accessible Alternatives to Ancient Garum

For those curious about the taste of ancient fish sauces, there are accessible modern alternatives:

Red Boat Nuoc Mam Nhi: A Vietnamese fish sauce similar to liquamen.
Ishiri: A Japanese condiment made from fermented squid blood and viscera, similar to garum sociorum.

The Future of Garum

As experimental archaeologists continue to research and refine their techniques, it is possible that we may one day be able to recreate the elusive garum sociorum. Until then, modern versions like Flor de Garum and accessible alternatives like ishiri allow us to experience the flavors of ancient Rome.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.