The diet of Genghis Khan’s army, which was a part of the Mongol Empire, was primarily based on the nomadic and pastoral lifestyle of the Mongols. The Mongol warriors were known for their exceptional horsemanship and military strategies, and their diet played a crucial role in sustaining their strength and endurance during campaigns. Here are some key aspects of the diet of Genghis Khan’s army:
1. Meat-Centric Diet:
- The Mongol diet was predominantly centered around meat, reflecting their pastoral lifestyle. The primary source of meat was the livestock they herded, including horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and sometimes camels.
2. Dairy Products:
- Dairy products were essential for the Mongols, providing additional sources of nutrition. They consumed fermented mare’s milk, known as kumis, and other dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, and curds.
3. Airag (Fermented Mare’s Milk):
- Airag was a staple beverage in the Mongol diet. It not only served as a source of hydration but also provided essential nutrients and probiotics. The fermentation process helped preserve the milk and make it suitable for consumption over extended periods.
4. Beverages:
- Apart from airag, Mongol warriors drank various other beverages, including tea, often made with milk and butter. This combination, known as suutei tsai, provided a calorie-dense and nourishing drink.
5. Limited Plant-Based Foods:
- The nomadic lifestyle and the nature of their military campaigns meant that the Mongols had limited access to cultivated crops. While they did consume some plant-based foods, such as wild fruits and vegetables, these were not major components of their diet.
6. Portable Foods:
- The army’s diet was designed to be practical and portable. Foods were often prepared in a way that allowed for easy transport and storage during long journeys and military campaigns.
7. Use of Animal Fats:
- Animal fats, particularly those from the livestock they herded, were a significant source of energy for the Mongols. Fats played a crucial role in providing sustained energy during physically demanding activities.
8. Limited Use of Grains:
- Grains were not a major part of the Mongol diet due to the nomadic lifestyle and the absence of widespread agriculture in the regions they inhabited. However, they might have obtained some grains through trade or pillaging settled areas.
9. Adaptation to Scarcity:
- The Mongol diet reflected their adaptability to the harsh and varied environments they traversed. Their ability to survive on limited resources and make use of what was available contributed to their success in sustaining a formidable army.
The diet of Genghis Khan’s army was shaped by the nomadic lifestyle, the need for portability during military campaigns, and the availability of resources in the regions they conquered. The emphasis on meat and dairy, along with practical considerations for a mobile lifestyle, were key features of their diet that contributed to their strength and endurance on the battlefield.
