As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide a detailed answer to the question of what the Pilgrims drank on the Mayflower. During their journey, the Pilgrims most likely had a variety of beverages to sustain them. One of the main sources of hydration was beer. In the seventeenth century, beer was a staple drink for many people, as it was often deemed safer to consume than water. The Pilgrims would have understood the importance of staying hydrated, especially during long voyages, and beer provided a reliable source of liquid.
Beer during that time period was different from what we commonly see today. It was often low in alcohol content and was brewed as a means of preservation. The process of brewing beer involves fermentation, which helps to kill off bacteria and make the liquid safe for consumption. This made it a suitable choice for the Pilgrims, as their water supply was prone to contamination.
Aside from beer, it is likely that the Pilgrims also had access to other beverages on the Mayflower. Wine was a common drink among the upper class, but it may not have been readily available to the Pilgrims. They were a group of religious separatists who were seeking religious freedom, and they were not known for their wealth or luxury. Therefore, it is more probable that their beverage choices were limited to what they could bring with them or what was available on the ship.
In addition to beer, the Pilgrims may have consumed water, although it was likely not their preferred choice. In those times, water sources were often contaminated with bacteria and impurities, making them unsafe to drink. This was especially true during long voyages when fresh water supplies could become scarce. As a result, the Pilgrims would have relied on beer as a substitute for water, as it provided both hydration and some nutritional value.
The Pilgrims' diet on the Mayflower would have consisted of various non-perishable food items, which could be paired with their beverage choices. Dried meat and fish, such as jerky or salted fish, would have been a common source of protein. These could be rehydrated or eaten as is, providing sustenance during the journey. Cheese, which has a longer shelf life, would have been another option for the Pilgrims. It can be paired well with beer, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Dried fruit, such as raisins or dried apples, would have provided a source of sweetness and variety in their diet. These fruits can be enjoyed as a snack or incorporated into their meals. Biscuits, grains, flour, and dried beans and peas were also likely part of their provisions. These staple items could be used to make simple meals and provide sustenance during their journey.
The Pilgrims on the Mayflower most likely drank beer as their primary beverage choice. Water was often contaminated during those times, making beer a safer alternative. Along with beer, they may have had access to other beverages such as wine, although this would have been less common. Their diet would have consisted of non-perishable food items such as dried meat, fish, cheese, dried fruit, biscuits, grains, flour, and dried beans and peas. These items could be paired with their beverage choices, providing a somewhat balanced diet during their voyage.