3 Review(s)

The recipes in The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby reflect the elaborate and often luxurious dining habits of the English aristocracy during the 17th century. The dishes are complex, with an emphasis on the use of spices, herbs, and other exotic ingredients that were common in high-status kitchens of the time. In addition to food recipes, the book includes instructions on how to make medicinal concoctions, including potions and elixirs. These remedies were often believed to cure ailments or improve health, demonstrating the close connection between food, medicine, and wellbeing during the period.One of the key features of Digby’s book is its scientific approach to cooking and medicine, which was influenced by the scientific revolution of the 17th century. The book is not only a cookbook but also a reflection of the era’s growing interest in experimental science and the desire to document knowledge for practical use. The Closet of Sir Kenelm Digby Knight Opened offers a glimpse into the early modern world of cuisine and medicine, where food was seen as both a source of pleasure and a tool for healing. It remains an important historical document for understanding the culinary and scientific practices of the 17th century.