That’s how Always Hungry, the cookbook from the winner of Sweden’s Master Chef 2020, begins. It is assumed that readers are familiar with “Sveriges Mästerkock”.
For those unfamiliar, it is a cooking competition.
To frame it in “gamer” terms, relevant to the Senses audience, the competition features both team and solo challenges, where contestants are given a limited time to prepare a dish. This dish can be an appetizer, main course, or dessert, with either predetermined ingredients or complete freedom of choice. Contestants have access to a pantry, offering a range of ingredients; however, the supply is finite, leading to strategic resource acquisition. Ingredient availability is not replenished during the challenge.
Once ingredients are secured, contestants commence cooking (requiring proficient culinary skills), which is then evaluated by a panel of judges. The winner, whether an individual or a team, is determined based on the most successful dish. The lowest-scoring contestants then participate in an elimination round, with one being removed from the competition, though opportunities for future competitions often arise.
One might ask, why frame a cookbook review in gaming terms?
The rationale is twofold: firstly, it reflects the reviewer’s interests and aligns with Senses’ broader coverage of games and movies. Secondly, the author, Sofia Henriksson, has a background as a game tester, making it interesting to draw parallels between the culinary arts and gaming. This review may be unique in its approach.
Now, let’s proceed in a more conventional manner, which will highlight the reasoning as the review progresses. With that said, let’s return to the core subject.
Sofia’s cookbook concept was particularly striking during the program. In the semi-final, contestants presented their cookbook ideas to the jury and prepared a recipe with a jury member. Sofia described her vision for a cookbook that transcends the traditional format, incorporating elements of play and gaming to create a complete evening experience.
The dish Sofia prepared in the semi-final was “singaporiansk laksa“, a flavorful and complex dish ideal for collaborative cooking. Sofia presents the recipe as a game for four people, assigning different tasks and points to each participant. This innovative approach to cooking is precisely the kind of thing that appeals, raising the question: is this the definitive cookbook for the gaming and food enthusiast?
With the book now in hand, the sauteuse at the ready, and the apron secured, the stage is set.
Upon reviewing the book, a slight disappointment arises with Always Hungry; it doesn’t fully realize the initial impression of the cookbook’s intended design.
It is speculated that external factors, such as the publisher’s input, may have influenced this direction, perhaps due to concerns about market appeal or potential misinterpretation.
The foreword offers some consolation, suggesting ways to incorporate play into the recipes. While a good compromise, further development and detail would have been appreciated. Several recipes include “play tips,” but their broader inclusion, particularly within the “laksa” recipe, would have enhanced the experience.
It is hoped that Sofia’s next cookbook will fully embody her vision and embrace a more game-like format, providing a complete evening experience. The anticipation for a future cookbook from Sofia is high.
Continuing through the cookbook, the recipes span various cuisines, including Asian, American, Swedish, and European, culminating in dessert and brunch options, along with three drink suggestions. The index lists approximately 60 recipes.
The recipe layout is well-structured and pedagogically sound. The ingredient list is clearly separated from the instructions, which are presented concisely. Recipes featured on television are marked with a “cooked on TV” icon. Many also include a tips section with suggestions for recipe variations. Preparation time and serving sizes are clearly indicated.
Reviewer’s play tip: set a timer for the specified cooking time; failure to complete the dish within the allotted time results in a missed dinner opportunity.
Regarding the visuals, given the reviewer’s established opinions on cookbook photography, which stems from the importance of visual appeal in food presentation, the images do not disappoint. They are of high quality, with excellent sharpness and appropriate lighting, effectively showcasing the dishes. While some of the posed shots appear somewhat staged, the food is beautifully arranged and presented. The inclusion of the author’s personal travel photos adds a personal touch.
The selection of recipes complements Always Hungry‘s style and layout, even if it appears somewhat diverse. The inclusion of dishes from Sveriges Mästerkock (both individual and team efforts) is a welcome addition, with instructions on replicating the presentation.
As readers of these reviews know, seasoning and spicing are frequently evaluated. In this instance, the recipes are deemed satisfactory, exhibiting a balanced and bold approach to flavor.
Photo: Jessica Lycker / senses.se
The recipes range in difficulty, from simpler options like lemon chicken in the oven and carrot and lentil soup to more complex dishes with multiple steps, such as luxurious chocolate dessert and laksa.
Among the recipes that caught the reviewer’s attention are the Indian curry, lobster soup, and pad thai. The chocolate cream for the churros is also noteworthy.
One minor critique concerns the title of one of the desserts: “the world’s best tiramisu.” Perhaps it should be amended to “the world’s second best tiramisu,” as this reviewer’s own tiramisu is widely considered the best.
Jokes aside, this is a genuinely interesting and rewarding cookbook. While the initial expectations for the layout were not entirely met, it remains a highly competent collection of inspiring and flavorful recipes.
This is not game over for Always Hungry; rather, cooking skills have increased by one level.
