Isicia Omentata (Roman Meat Patties) - A Tastes of the Roman Empire

A sweet and savory take on grilled or fried meat patties eaten during the Roman Empire.

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Isicia Omentata

Isicia Omentata: The Ancient Roman Burger

When we think of burgers, we usually picture a juicy beef patty nestled in a soft bun, topped with cheese, lettuce, and sauce. But did you know that the Romans had their own version of a burger?

Known as Isicia Omentata, this dish was a seasoned minced meat patty, often seen as the ancestor of the modern-day hamburger.

The History of Isicia Omentata

Isicia Omentata dates back to ancient Rome and appears in Apicius, a famous Roman cookbook compiled in the 4th or 5th century AD. This dish was likely enjoyed by wealthier

Romans due to its use of expensive seasonings like pepper and garum (fermented fish sauce).

Unlike today’s burgers, Isicia Omentata was not served in a bun but was wrapped in caul fat (omentum), which helped keep the meat juicy while cooking.

The dish is significant because it represents how the Romans mastered the art of seasoning and cooking minced meat long before modern fast food chains came into existence. It also showcases their love for bold flavors, with a mix of pepper, wine-soaked bread, and herbs enhancing the meat’s taste.

The Original Recipe from Apicius

The recipe for Isicia Omentata appears in Apicius (Book 2, Recipe 1) and is written in classical Latin:

"Isicia omentata: isicia ex pulpa cum pipere, liquamine, et nuces fractis, et caroenum. In omentum involuta, subassas."

This can be translated roughly as:

"Minced meat patties: Minced meat with pepper, liquamen (fish sauce), and crushed nuts, mixed with caroenum (reduced wine or grape must). Wrap in caul fat and cook lightly."

Final Thoughts

While we might associate burgers with American diners and fast food, the Romans were already experimenting with minced meat and bold flavors over 1,500 years ago. Isicia Omentata is a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions of ancient Rome and a fun recipe to try for history and food lovers alike. If you ever want to experience a true taste of the past, give this ancient Roman “burger” a go!

My Take on Isicia Omentata Recipe

Prep time 20 minutes | Cook time 15 minutes | Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g minced meat (pork or beef)

• 1 slice of french style bread, soaked in white or red wine

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tbsp crushed pine nuts

• Caul fat (or bacon strips as a substitute)

• Olive oil for cooking

• 200 ml reduced grape juice (grape must) - Just take normal grape juice and reduce by 50%

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the minced meat with soaked bread, pepper, fish sauce, and crushed nuts.

2. Form small patties and wrap each in caul fat (or bacon) - I used just the fat from the bacon.

3. Cook in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil until browned and cooked through.

4. At 90% done, pour over your reduced grape juice and caramelize for 30 seconds.

5. Serve with a side of flatbread and olives for an authentic Roman experience!

If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Pinterest – seeing your creations always makes my day. Let's explore international cuisine together!