10 Ancient Foods Still Enjoyed Around The World Today

Cinnamon, one of the earliest traded spices, has been prized for its sweet and warm flavor since ancient times. Native to Sri Lanka and India, it was highly sought after by ancient Egyptians for embalming and by the Romans for its culinary and medicinal uses. The spice trade routes, which were closely guarded secrets, brought cinnamon to the Middle East and Europe, where it became a symbol of luxury and status. In the Middle Ages, it was used to mask the flavor of preserved meats and in sweet and savory dishes alike. Today, cinnamon remains a beloved spice, used in everything from baked goods to savory curries. Its ability to enhance flavors and its numerous health benefits, such as regulating blood sugar and reducing inflammation, ensure its continued popularity in kitchens worldwide.