Many races consider the act of eating to be a simple biological necessity, but the Cardassians take their food much more seriously, even the most modest of meals can become a ritual experience. An ideal illustration of this is a meal Gul Dukat takes while on a visit to the space station Deep Space Nine. Alone in his guest quarters, Dukat sits at his table in preparation for his evening meal. He begins the ritual by pouring a glass of wine; he pauses to admire its color, then slowly takes a sip, closing his eyes as he savors the taste and smell of the rich liquor. Next, he surveys the food set out on the table. Dukat’s approach to his food is delicate yet commanding, and he gives the meal his full attention; he would never consider, for example, bringing a PADD to the table to work while he eats.

 

A VISUAL FEAST

A Cardassian table setting is reminiscent of a Terran Japanese meal in the size and color of its portions; these delicacies are as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate. To anticipate the meal is as important as the meal itself.

To understand the significance food has in Cardassian culture, it is important to understand that it is not just something to be consumed, but a representation of power and control. In Cardassian society, who you eat with is defined by your position and social standing. Alone on a Federation-run space station, Dukat would much rather eat by himself than share a meal with those he considers to be beneath him.

The Cardassian approach to food can be understood by examining the cultural background of the Cardassian race. While they are known to be quite aggressive in large numbers, they tend to be much more reserved when alone. They are very protective of their borders and ideals, and do not tolerate any actions that may pose a threat to their culture and property.

 

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Five hundred years ago, the Cardassians were a peaceful and very artistic culture, and were known for their great archaeology and architecture. Between that time and 200 years ago, their planet suffered a food shortage. The revolution that followed was very destructive; the Cardassian military eventually too control, promising the civilians a return to prosperity for the planet and a continued supply of food. With so much of their great art gone, it is conjectured that Cardassians seek refuge and a form or artistic expression in their approach to food and its associated rituals.

 

DISHES

There is great variety in Cardassian foods and beverages, and many are as palatable to other races as they are to the Cardassians. Even the Bajorans, during the Occupation, gained a taste for Cardassians dishes such as larish pie, a favourite Cardassian dessert.

Cardassians are particularly fond of the eggs of several indigenous fowl; taspar eggs are a particular favorite. The boiled taspar egg is considered a delicacy on Cardassia Prime, although is revolting raw. The eggs are eaten in a similar way to how a human would consume boiled eggs; the shell is broken and the cooked yolk and white spooned out,

Regova eggs appear to be similar to devilled eggs, a human delicacy. They are greenish in color and are often stuffed with a creamy looking substance.

Yamok sauce, and extremely popular foodstuff, is normally served as a condiment with a meal; a container of it will be found in the cupboard of every kitchen on Cardassia Prime. Cardassian dishes with which it is traditionally served include tojal, a delicacy that is particularly repugnant to other races, and sem’hal stew, a simple dish. It can be used equally well to season non-Cardassian dishes as diverse as gramillion sand peas and asparagus.

Cardassian food tends more toward meat and other animal proteins then vegetable dishes. Zabo meat is popular, and can be served one of several ways. Cut into think steaks is popular preparation; in this form, it appears similar to Earth beef, and its taste and texture can be enjoyed by Cardassians and non-Cardassians alike. Vole bellies are another popular Cardassian meat dish.

Non-meat foodstuffs include rulot seed, a grain that is especially important to Cardassian agriculture.

 

DRINKING UP TIME

Like other races, the Cardassians enjoy a number of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. One of their favorites is Kanar. Highly intoxicating, Kanar is an umbrella term for a strong alcoholic beverage that comes in a variety of forms, from a blue-colored wine to a distilled whisky or a think, syrup like liqueur.

Another popular drink is Rokassa juice, which has a distinctive, sweet smell. Cardassians consume this mellow refreshment to calm their nerves.

The broth-like drink fish juice is often consumed steaming hot and is most commonly imbibed at breakfast.