Mesopotamia is the region in which modern day Iraq is located. It is the oldest civilization known to man. The raw materials easily accessible to the people of Mesopotamia included:
-Barley, wheat, and millet
-Chickpeas, lentils, and beans
-Onions, garlic, and leeks
-Cucumbers, cress, mustard, and fresh green lettuce
-Truffles
Although these were the most accessible, their diet was not limited to them. The river that ran through the region allowed for over 50 types of fish, and they enjoyed the well known truffle. Meat was enjoyed much more often in the city as opposed to sparsely populated country side. This was not due to common misperception of those with less money living in the country side, but due to the warmer temperatures and the swift spoiling of meat. However, beef and veal were popular everywhere where they could be afforded. Beef was generally tender as they were not slaughtered until the end of their working life. A typical meal that they would enjoy would consist of barley cake or barley paste, along with onions or beans and barley ale to drink.