Forgotten medieval pie recipe revived in the City of London

Floden, an early Ashkenazi Jewish pie, will be cooked from an ancient recipe in the City of London. The dish is linked to the German word “Fladen,” meaning flatbread or pie. Related medieval Jewish recipes used simple fillings such as fruit, cheese, or honey. The event, “Milk, Memory and Cheesecake,” will take place at The Aldgate Centre on Friday 22nd May. The tasting aims to reconnect people with medieval Jewish food culture and offer insight into the lives of early Jewish residents of the Square Mile. The event is funded through the City of London Corporation’s Stronger Communities Fund and forms part of Jewish Culture Month activities, including a free exhibition at The London Archives running until 15th June 2026.

"Floden is thought to be an early type of Ashkenazi Jewish pie linked to the German word Fladen, meaning flatbread or pie. Related recipes appear in Jewish food traditions from the early Middle Ages, often using simple fillings such as fruit, cheese or honey."

"“Floden is a rare and evocative part of medieval Jewish food culture which, as far as we know, hasn't been tasted for centuries. We're really excited about bringing it back and offering a glimpse into the lives of the City's early Jewish residents.”"

"Funded by the City of London Corporation's Stronger Communities Fund, the event is part of a wider programme taking place across the Square Mile for Jewish Culture Month, including an exhibition at The London Archives that examines the history and enduring myths of the lost burial ground beneath the Square Mile."

Read at ianVisits