Split into chapters based on the cuisine of the regions around the fantastic Westeros, Monroe-Cassel and Lehrer have covered off nicely on all the medieval inspired dishes you could want, from the hearty and warming dishes of The Wall such as Mutton in Onion-Ale Broth and Pork Pie, through to the Honey-Spiced Locusts and Tyroshi Honeyfingers from all the way across the narrow sea.
What is particularly impressive about the book is the way they present the recipes, and in particular those which have been sourced from original medieval texts. Each recipe is preceded by a quote from one of Martin's novels mentioning it, providing context for the dish presented, and this is followed on many recipes by notes from the authors detailing the origin and inspiration for the recipes they present. The recipes themselves are very accessible, clearly presented and easy to follow, but best of all is that those originally from medieval sources, which might tend to stretch the modern palate, are coupled with a modern version of the same dish. The Medieval Pease Porridge is partnered with a modern version, likewise the Elizabethan Lemon Cakes and also the Medieval Mulled Wine, with a sister recipe of Southron Mulled Wine sourced from a chaplain's wife at a top British university. This provides the reader with both the inspiration and the means for creating their own Game of Thrones inspired feast with scope for whatever varying degree of authenticity they choose.
Whether you're wanting to sample the richness of the North with Aurochs Roasted with Leeks, Turnips in Butter and Baked Apples, head south to the warmth of Dorne for Dornish Snake with Fiery Sauce and Stuffed Grape Leaves or feast like the ruler of the Iron Throne in Kings Landing on Roasted Boar, Quails Drowned in Butter, and Almond Crusted Trout, this book will satisfy. Finish the feast with some Peaches in Honey, Apricot Tarts and a cool glass of Iced Milk with Honey before you sleep it off, and you'll be all set to feast again another day.
This is the first cookbook which had the boys at work all excited, and is highly recommended for fans. Not a bad resource for the rest of you either, but be quick. Winter is coming.
- Kath
