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The medieval cookbook Anwāʿ al-ṣaydala fī alwān al-aṭʿima, with its remarkable collection of over 460 recipes, is a tangible testimony to the richness and sophistication of the cuisine of Muslim Spain. Its diverse recipes reflect a pluralistic society of ethnic and religious communities that found a common ground for a collective culture. It further displays a rich regional vocabulary and the material culture it represents.
This text has been a culinary diamond in the rough ever since its first publication in the early 1960s, based on a single damaged and titleless manuscript with misplaced folios. In this new translation, Anwāʿ al-ṣaydala is now a polished gem. It is based on a recently discovered manuscript that is in good condition. For the first time in any language, this translation is the closest representation of the original text that the author/compiler constructed.
Supplemented with an extensive introduction and glossaries, and enlivened with over 270 color illustrations depicting medieval life.
Also included are modern adaptations of twenty recipes.
This text has been a culinary diamond in the rough ever since its first publication in the early 1960s, based on a single damaged and titleless manuscript with misplaced folios. In this new translation, Anwāʿ al-ṣaydala is now a polished gem. It is based on a recently discovered manuscript that is in good condition. For the first time in any language, this translation is the closest representation of the original text that the author/compiler constructed.
Supplemented with an extensive introduction and glossaries, and enlivened with over 270 color illustrations depicting medieval life.
Also included are modern adaptations of twenty recipes.
Price: $209.00
Pages: 794
Publisher: Brill
Imprint: Brill
Series: Islamic History and Civilization
Publication Date:
18 December 2024
ISBN: 9789004715844
Format: Hardcover
"Food historian Nawal Nasrallah uncovers the hidden order in a seemingly chaotic 13th-century manuscript, revealing a buffet-style cookbook that bridges lost traditions and diverse communities." – Dianna Wray, in: AramcoWorld (July 02, 2025)
"Far from a chaotic collection, this medieval cookbook tells the story of a vibrant, multicultural society—where even edible bracelets for children found their place at the table." – Dianna Wray, in: AramcoWorld (July 02, 2025)
"Long dismissed as incoherent, this 13th-century cookbook is revealed by Nawal Nasrallah as a rich social document from the height of al-Andalus, where food crossed class and religious boundaries." – Dianna Wray, in: AramcoWorld July 02, 2025)
"Far from a chaotic collection, this medieval cookbook tells the story of a vibrant, multicultural society—where even edible bracelets for children found their place at the table." – Dianna Wray, in: AramcoWorld (July 02, 2025)
"Long dismissed as incoherent, this 13th-century cookbook is revealed by Nawal Nasrallah as a rich social document from the height of al-Andalus, where food crossed class and religious boundaries." – Dianna Wray, in: AramcoWorld July 02, 2025)
Nawal Nasrallah, independent scholar, has published books and articles on the history and culture of Arab food, including Delights from the Garden of Eden, and English translations, Annals of the Caliphs’ Kitchens, Treasure Trove of Benefits and Variety at the Table, and Best of Delectable Foods and Dishes.