What did pirates eat and drink at sea?

As a maritime historian with a keen interest in the dietary habits of pirates, I've spent considerable time researching and analyzing the food and drink that these seafarers consumed during their long voyages. It's a fascinating subject that often surprises people with its variety and the lengths pirates would go to ensure they had enough sustenance for their journeys. Pirates were known for their hearty appetites and the necessity to consume substantial amounts of food to maintain their strength and stamina. Their diet was largely dictated by the practicalities of long sea voyages, the need for preservation, and the availability of supplies. Here's a detailed look at what pirates might have eaten and drunk while at sea: ### Meat Pirates would often have access to fresh meat in the early stages of their voyages. This could include beef, pork, and poultry. However, as the journey progressed and fresh supplies became scarce, meat would be salted or pickled to extend its shelf life. Salted meat, also known as "salt horse" or "salt junk," was a common staple. Cooks would use herbs and spices to mask the often strong, rancid taste that developed over time. ### Fish Fish was another important source of protein. Pirates would catch fish directly from the sea, and they were adept at various fishing techniques. Dried fish, or "stockfish," was also carried on board, which could be reconstituted with water when needed. ### Biscuits A staple of any pirate's diet was hardtack or ship's biscuits. These were made from flour, water, and salt, then baked until they were rock-hard. They were designed to last for months without spoiling. While they were not particularly appetizing, they provided a reliable source of carbohydrates and were often softened with water or beer before consumption. ### Cheese Cheese was another food item that could be preserved for long periods. Hard cheeses like parmesan or cheddar would be favored for their durability. These could be eaten on their own or used to add flavor to other dishes. ### Vegetables and Fruits Fresh vegetables and fruits were a luxury that pirates would enjoy when available. However, to preserve them, they would often be pickled or dried. Pickled cabbage, known as "sea kale," was a common accompaniment to meals. Dried fruits like raisins and apples were also carried, providing a sweet treat and a source of vitamins. ### Legumes Legumes such as beans and peas were important for their nutritional value. They were often dried and could be reconstituted with water for meals. Peas could be ground into a paste to make "pease porridge," a simple but filling dish. ### Drinks Pirates needed to stay hydrated, and while water was the primary drink, it was not always the most reliable due to the risk of spoilage. Therefore, they turned to alternatives like beer and rum. Beer was a popular choice because it had a longer shelf life than water and was less likely to go bad. Rum, on the other hand, was a spirit that could be stored for long periods without spoiling and was often diluted with water to make it more palatable. ### Herbs and Spices To add flavor to their preserved and often bland food, pirates used a variety of herbs and spices. Black pepper, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg were common additions that not only enhanced the taste of their meals but also had preservative qualities. ### Torture Tactics with Food It's worth noting that the stereotype of pirates eating exotic and bizarre foods is largely a myth. Their diet was practical and focused on sustenance rather than culinary adventure. However, there are tales of pirates using food as a form of psychological warfare, such as forcing captives to eat large quantities of "sky pie," a concoction made from the most unappetizing ingredients available. In conclusion, the diet of a pirate was a testament to their resourcefulness and adaptability. They made do with what was available, preserved food to last, and used herbs and spices to make their meals more palatable. It was a far cry from the glamorous image often portrayed in popular culture, but it was a practical approach to survival at sea.

For the first couple of weeks there was meat, cheese, vegetables, eggs, and more. ... Cooks would mask the taste of the rancid meats with plenty of herbs and spices. Vegetables and meat were usually pickled or salted to preserve the food. Ships on long voyages relied on biscuits, dried beans and salted beef to live.