Comfits (Caraway Comfits, How-To, Historical)

What are comfits?

Comfits are candy-coated seeds or spices—usually caraway or fennel—served at the end of meals in medieval and Renaissance banquets. They were both digestive aids and symbols of refinement.

👉 Explore the blog: What Are Comfits?

Where did you learn to make comfits?

I was inspired by Dame Alys Katharine’s detailed walkthrough on traditional comfit-making. Though her original site is offline, you can still access the archived version:

📚 Read Dame Alys' Comfit Guide (Wayback Machine)

How were comfits made historically?

Historically, comfits were made by slowly layering sugar syrup over a seed in a comfit pan. This process took many hours—or even days!—to get the perfect candy shell.

🏺 Want to try it? Read: Caraway Comfit Recipe & Technique

Can I make caraway comfits at home?

Yes! My method uses a shallow heated pan and sugar syrup to mimic the traditional technique with fewer tools and less drama.

🧪 Here's how: Modern Comfit-Making Shortcut

Why were comfits served at feasts?

Comfits weren’t just candy—they were considered digestive aids and markers of elite status. You’d often find them at the end of formal feasts or on spice trays with candied ginger and anise.

🍽️ Learn more: Comfits in Historical Banquets