A modern adaptation of moretum, an ancient Roman-style cheese, garlic and herb preparation described in Latin literature.
Crush the garlic and salt in a mortar
Add the herbs and grind into a coarse paste
Add the cheese and mash until combined
Mix in the ground coriander
Work in the olive oil and vinegar gradually
Adjust the texture with a little more oil if needed
Serve with bread or raw vegetables
Moretum was an ancient Roman-style preparation based on cheese, garlic and herbs crushed together in a mortar. It is especially known from a Latin poem traditionally associated with the Appendix Vergiliana.
The description is valuable because it presents a rustic meal rather than the elite banquet dishes that dominate many popular images of Roman food. It gives a glimpse of strong, practical flavors made from accessible ingredients.
The ancient text describes ingredients being gathered and worked together by hand. Garlic is prominent, while herbs, cheese, oil and acidic elements create a pungent spread.
Fresh cheese and herb choices varied according to place and availability. Modern recreations therefore differ. This version uses ingredients that preserve the basic flavor logic while remaining accessible.
Moretum matters because it helps reconstruct ordinary foodways. It reminds us that Roman cuisine was not only about elaborate sauces and wealthy dining rooms.
This is a historical adaptation, not an exact standardized ancient formula. Ancient sources do not provide modern gram measurements, and the specific cheese and herb varieties cannot always be mapped perfectly onto today's ingredients.
4 servings