Thursday, 25 Jul 2024

Fry Scores: A Delightful Journey into Gaming-Inspired Cuisine

We’ve come a long way since the days of eating fruit in Pac-Man and finding hidden pork chops in Dracula’s castle. Today, we delve into the world of gaming-inspired cuisine with writer and photographer Holly Green’s latest creation, “Fry Scores: An Unofficial Guide to Video Game Grub.” Join us as we explore this unique cookbook and gain insights from our conversation with the author herself.

Creating a Fusion of Gaming and Gastronomy

Holly Green’s journey towards “Fry Scores” began over two years ago. It all started with an article she wrote about food in video games, which sparked her passion for combining her love of cooking and gaming. The result? A comprehensive collection of accessible recipes inspired by iconic games, carefully curated to satisfy both gamers and food enthusiasts alike.

A Culinary Adventure

Choosing the recipes for “Fry Scores” was no easy task. Holly wanted to create a practical list of dishes that could be enjoyed any day of the week. She noticed that many video game food blogs featured complex or niche recipes, which didn’t resonate with a wider audience. Her goal was to compile a full list of recipes that encompassed culinary staples and provided a basic level of cooking knowledge.

In “Fry Scores,” you’ll find a variety of original recipes pulled from games where their mention and inclusion were merely set dressing. Holly elevates these culinary creations, such as Skyrim’s Apple Cabbage Stew and Cook Cook’s Fiend Stew from Fallout: New Vegas, making them the star of the show.

Fry Scores Cookbook

A Taste of Hyrule: Yeto’s Soup

One of the mouthwatering recipes from “Fry Scores” is Holly’s own take on Yeto’s Soup from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. In the game, Yeto prepares three different versions, with each one varying in quality based on the ingredients. Holly’s version, “Superb Soup,” adds Ordon Goat Cheese to the Ordon Pumpkin and Reekfish used in the previous iterations. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 lb. sockeye salmon
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 16 oz. heavy cream
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 4 oz. goat cheese
  • bay leaf
  • 1 tsp. sea salt
  • 1 1/4 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 3/4 tsp. white pepper
  • dill for garnish

The key to this dish lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for a high-quality cut of sockeye salmon and a pure goat cheese that crumbles easily. For an extra smoky flavor, Holly suggests using a bourbon-infused goat cheese. However, if you can’t find one, a shot of bourbon can be added to the finished soup base.

To create the cream-goat cheese base, slowly blend the goat cheese and cream over low heat. Crumble the goat cheese into small chunks and place it in a 2-quart saucepan over low heat. Gradually add the cream, tablespoon by tablespoon, blending it into the cheese using a fork or large wooden spoon. Continue until all 16 oz has been added, resulting in a thick and creamy liquid.

Next, add two bay leaves, smoked paprika, salt, and white pepper to the mixture, bringing it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and gradually add the pumpkin puree, stirring constantly. Once all the pumpkin puree has been added, cover the mixture and let it simmer.

Meanwhile, broil the salmon. Since salmon is thin, it requires minimal cooking time. Place the salmon on a tin foil-covered cookie sheet and broil it on the LOW setting for about fifteen minutes or until the flesh turns light pink. Switch to the HIGH setting and cook for an additional six to eight minutes, until the edges of the salmon caramelize and appear crispy. Let the salmon cool completely.

To serve, spoon the hot pumpkin soup into a bowl and place slices of cooked salmon on top. Garnish with dill, rainbow pepper corn, and smoked paprika for an exquisite presentation.

Creative Twists and Familiar Favorites

“Fry Scores” not only features unique creations like Yeto’s Soup but also offers imaginative twists on more common dishes. Holly faced the challenge of putting her own spin on classic recipes like grilled cheese, ensuring they remained recognizable yet exciting. The book includes recipes for French Toast (The Sims 3), Pork Katsu (Cooking Mama), and Red Curry (the Kirby series), among others. The focus is on simplicity, using accessible ingredients to create delicious food that anyone can enjoy.

A Feast for the Eyes

Accompanying each recipe in “Fry Scores” is original photography captured by Holly herself. From vibrant colors to enticing textures, her attention to detail brings each dish to life. Holly took inspiration from various artists, learning from their work and incorporating elements of color, texture, depth of field, and natural lighting into her own photography.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

“Fry Scores” is currently available on iTunes and iBooks for Mac and iDevice users, with additional formats planned for the future. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a food enthusiast looking for a unique culinary experience, this cookbook promises to deliver a delightful fusion of gaming and gastronomy.

FAQs

  • What are some unique recipes featured in “Fry Scores”?
  • How can I make Yeto’s Soup from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess?
  • Are the recipes in “Fry Scores” complicated or beginner-friendly?
  • Can I find alternative ingredients for the recipes in the book?

Conclusion

“Fry Scores: An Unofficial Guide to Video Game Grub” takes us on a culinary journey inspired by the virtual worlds of gaming. Holly Green’s passion for food and gaming shines through in this unique cookbook, which brings gamers and food enthusiasts together over a shared love for both. Embark on your own gaming-inspired culinary adventure and satisfy your cravings with “Fry Scores.”

To learn more about Fry Scores and Holly Green’s work, visit Wqaindia.