Archaeology Now presents Culinary Adventure: An Ancient Meal

Archaeology Now, the Houston affiliate of Archaeology Institute of America, presents Culinary Adventure: An Ancient Meal, part of the Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs project, which will take place Nov. 5 in the Mudhif recently opened on the Rice University campus. The Mudhif is a replica of a 5,000-year-old reed structure, which served as a village’s public hall, and is constructed entirely of reeds from the marshlands between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in Iraq, using ancient methods. It is the focal point of the Senan Shaibani Marsh Arabs Project.

This cultural event invites guests to feast like an ancient Sumerian and experience a glimpse of the food from ancient Middle East to current day Iraq.

Led by Iraqi archaeologist Dr. Zaid Alrawi, the event features a replication of a meal from a 5,000-year-old tavern discovered at the excavations in Iraq and beer from ancient Iraqi recipes for guests to enjoy while taking part in the cuisine, which is certain to include fish and grains. An Ancient Meal will also include Chefs from Bite of HOPE, culinary leaders from the local Houston Iraqi community and a 5,000-year-old ancient refrigerator. Bite of HOPE works to change the food environment in Houston, focusing on integrating medical and culinary resources to create healthier communities.

Culinary Adventure: An Ancient Meal is just one of the series of Archaeology Now’s cultural events scheduled during the fall, including music, food, films, poetry, family days and more, running through Dec. 5.