In ancient Sumer, the diet was varied and included a mix of agricultural products and animal-based foods. The Sumerians relied heavily on agriculture, as the fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers was conducive to farming. Key staples in their diet included:
- Barley: This was the main grain consumed and was used to make bread and beer.
- Wheat: While less common than barley, wheat was also grown and used for various food products.
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas were important sources of protein.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Sumerians cultivated a variety of fruits such as dates, figs, and pomegranates, as well as vegetables like onions, garlic, leeks, and cucumbers.
- Meat: They consumed meat from domesticated animals such as sheep, goats, and cattle. Wild game was also hunted when available.
- Dairy: Milk products from animals like goats and cows were consumed, including cheese and yogurt.
Regarding fish, the Sumerians did indeed have access to fish from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and fishing was a part of their diet. The rivers were rich in fish, and fishing provided an important supplement to their primarily agricultural diet. Overall, the Sumerians had a balanced diet that combined agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing.