Attila at the table

Among the Huns, there is neither starter nor dessert: everything revolves around the large bronze cauldron set over the fire, where meat boils for the troop. They eat sitting in a circle, meat scooped by hand or served in a wooden bowl, accompanied by mare's milk. The king eats the same thing as his warriors, from the same wood, simply more honored. The meal follows the rhythm of the camp: ordinary and frugal on a daily basis, overflowing at victory banquets, and reduced to essentials during rides.

Two emblems of the Huns: the large bronze cauldron in which all meat is boiled, and koumiss, tart and slightly effervescent mare's milk, the national drink of the steppe riders. Together, they sum up a nomadic cuisine: few tools, much fire, and the horse as a living pantry.