The word "Nombles" (IPA: /ˈnʌmbəlz/) is a term used in medieval cuisine to refer to the entrails of an animal, typically a deer or a boar. The spelling of this word can be confusing because it is not commonly used in modern English. However, it is believed to have originated from the Old French word "noumbles" which has the same meaning. The use of the letter "m" in the spelling of "nombles" is likely because it was often pronounced as such in Middle English.
Nombles, also known as numbles or umbles, is a term used in Medieval English cuisine to refer to the edible internal organs of a deer or other game animal, specifically the heart, liver, kidneys, and other offal located in the abdominal region. The word "nombles" originates from the Old French word "nombles", which was derived from the Latin word "lumbulus", meaning loin or small piece of meat. Nombles were highly valued in Medieval cooking and were often used as ingredients in various savory dishes.
These offal parts were considered a delicacy and were usually reserved for the nobility or wealthier classes. Nombles were often prepared by being boiled, fried, or roasted, and were commonly used in stews, pies, sausages, or as fillings for pastries. Their rich and distinct flavor added depth and complexity to dishes, making them prized additions to medieval feasts.
Due to their significance in medieval cuisine, the term "nombles" has been referenced in various literary works and historical texts. However, with the passage of time and changes in food preferences, the use of nombles has significantly diminished in modern culinary practices. Nonetheless, nombles remain an interesting part of culinary history, providing a glimpse into the rich gastronomic heritage of medieval times.
• The entrails of a deer.
• And humbles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the word "Nombles" can be traced back to Old French. It is derived from the Old French word "nomble", which in turn comes from the Latin word "lumbulu(s)" meaning "loin" or "kidney". Over time, "nomble" transformed into "nombles" in Middle English. The term specifically refers to the edible organs located in the abdominal cavity of an animal, such as the kidneys, liver, heart, and other offal.