Difficulty: Easy | Yields: 2 cups
Ancient Roman Moretum, Revive a taste of ancient Rome with Moretum, a flavorful cheese spread made with fresh herbs, garlic, and pecorino. Traditionally ground in a mortar, this recipe unites simple ingredients into a rich, pungent dish that pairs perfectly with crusty bread. Ideal for themed dinners, educational cooking, or enjoying a bite of history at your next meal.
History & Cultural Significance of Ancient Roman Moretum
Ancient Roman Moretum was a humble yet flavorful herb cheese spread enjoyed by ancient Romans, often eaten with freshly baked flatbreads or rustic loaves. Its name comes from the Latin word mortarium, referring to the mortar in which it was prepared. Traditionally, cheese, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs like coriander, rue, or parsley were ground together by hand—creating a coarse, pungent, and aromatic paste.
The most famous description of Moretum comes from a poem in the Appendix Vergiliana, a collection once attributed to Virgil. The poem vividly portrays a peasant named Simylus, who prepares his breakfast with simple, seasonal ingredients—an early celebration of farm-to-table philosophy. Through this, Moretum emerges not just as a recipe, but a snapshot of rural Roman life, capturing themes of self-sufficiency, labor, and daily ritual.
In the Roman Empire, dairy products were central to both poor and elite diets, with soft cheeses made from goat or sheep’s milk being especially common. Moretum’s rustic preparation and bold flavor made it ideal for starting the day with nourishment and strength—particularly for farmers, soldiers, and laborers.
The inclusion of garlic and vinegar gave the spread a sharp kick, while herbs added fragrance and medicinal qualities, in keeping with Roman beliefs about the health benefits of plants. Eaten with panis (bread) baked in communal ovens, it was more than a meal—it was a culinary expression of simplicity, community, and sustenance.
Reviving Moretum today reconnects us with the ancient Mediterranean palate—earthy, intense, and herbaceous. It reminds us that food doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful. It just needs to be made with intention, shared with others, and grounded in the flavors of the land.
📜 Why This Works
“Because culinary traditions offer a delicious window into the past.”
This blend of sharp cheese and robust herbs like cilantro and parsley creates a vibrant flavor profile. Garlic adds punch, and a drizzle of olive oil melds everything into a creamy, spreadable delight.
Ingredients for Ancient Roman Moretum
☑️ 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
☑️ 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
☑️ 2 cloves garlic
☑️ ½ cup grated pecorino cheese
☑️ ¼ cup olive oil
☑️ Salt to taste
☑️ Freshly ground black pepper
☑️ Optional: vinegar or crushed coriander seeds
👩🍳 How to Make It Ancient Roman Moretum
🌱 Step 1: Prepare the Herbs
1️⃣ Rinse and thoroughly dry cilantro and parsley.
2️⃣ Peel and roughly chop the garlic.
🔨 Step 2: Grind the Mixture
1️⃣ In a mortar and pestle (or food processor for a modern twist), combine all ingredients except the oil.
2️⃣ Grind until mixed but slightly coarse.
💧 Step 3: Bind and Season
1️⃣ Slowly drizzle in olive oil while mixing to achieve a paste-like consistency.
2️⃣ Season with salt and pepper, and optionally, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of coriander seeds for an authentic touch.
🍞 Step 4: Serve with Bread
1️⃣ Spoon the moretum over fresh, warm bread or as part of a cheese platter.
2️⃣ Enjoy immediately, or let it sit for a few hours to deepen the flavors “Ancient Roman Moretum”
💖 Why You’ll Love It Ancient Roman Moretum
☑️ Engages historical cooking methods
☑️ Rich in flavors with herbal freshness and cheese umami
☑️ Quick to prepare with a rustic, hearty outcome
☑️ Versatile enough to accompany a variety of dishes
“Dive into a bite of history—bold, simple, and remarkably modern.”
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Truffle Honey Glazed Duck Breast You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.