The acorn, the fruit of trees such as oaks, holm oaks, and cork oaks, has a long and rich history, deeply rooted in tradition, particularly in Portugal.
Since ancient times, this fruit was a vital food source for prehistoric peoples and later for various civilizations. Archaeological findings from the Bronze Age reveal that acorns were roasted for human consumption during this period. In Roman times, they were served as desserts in Hispanic provinces. During the Middle Ages, acorns remained an important food source, especially in times of scarcity.
Acorns are nutrient-rich, containing proteins and healthy fats, and were consumed in various forms: raw, with honey, roasted, boiled, toasted, and even ground into flour.
During the Middle Ages, their value extended beyond human consumption to livestock feeding. Pastures in oak and cork oak woodlands, known as montanheiras, became ideal areas for raising pigs, particularly the Iberian pig. These animals, fed primarily on acorns, produce the high-quality meat that characterizes Iberian ham.
Beyond their nutritional and economic importance, acorns are culturally linked to agricultural traditions and sustainable practices. Oak and cork oak forests, called montados, exemplify agroforestry systems that promote biodiversity and soil conservation.
Today, although less prominent in human diets, acorns are regaining recognition. They are increasingly featured in modern cuisine and used to produce health-conscious products such as gluten-free flours and breads. Moreover, they play a key role in celebrating rural and ecological traditions.
Alegria, C.; Antunes, C.; Giovanetti, M.; Abreu, M.; Máguas, C. Acorn Isotopic Composition: A New Promising Tool for Authenticity Maps of Montado’s High-Value Food Products. Molecules, 25, 1535, 2020. DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071535
Tereso, J.P.; Rego, P. R.; Silva, R. A. The exploitation of wild food resources and their role in the economic and social dynamics of agricultural communities from prehistory to Roman times. Florestas do Norte de Portugal – História, ecologia e desafios de gestão, 2011.
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