Vincent Price Cookbook – Recipes from a Legendary Actor
Vincent Price, known for his iconic roles in horror films, had a passion for food that was just as captivating. The “Vincent Price Cookbook” offers more than just recipes—it’s a peek into the culinary world of one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures.
With his refined taste and love for entertaining, Price crafted a collection of delicious dishes that reflect his sophisticated yet approachable style.
From savory entrees to sweet treats, each recipe tells a story of a man who found joy in both the art of cooking and the delight of sharing meals with friends.
His cookbook serves as an invitation to step into his world, where food was an expression of creativity and care. Get ready to explore the recipes that once graced Price’s table, adding a dash of Hollywood glam to your own kitchen.
The Vincent Price Cookbook is a unique treasure that combines celebrity, fine cuisine, and personal stories. Written by the iconic actor Vincent Price and his wife, Mary, this cookbook brings together recipes from around the world in a simple and accessible way.
It’s not just a collection of recipes; it’s a journey through global flavors, fine dining, and the Price family’s passion for good food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this book offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Author Background
Vincent Price: The Actor Who Loved Food
Vincent Price is known for his unforgettable roles in horror films, but he had another passion that many might not know about—cooking.
Throughout his life, Price was deeply involved in the culinary world. His interest in food was more than just a hobby; it was a way to connect with people.
Price’s wife, Mary, shared his love for cooking, and together, they created a cookbook that reflects their shared passion for food. Price’s reputation as an actor only adds to the charm of this cookbook.
His love for food was matched by his love for entertaining, and that enthusiasm shines through in the recipes and stories that fill the pages of the book. His culinary journey takes readers to famous restaurants and hidden gems from around the world, offering a personal touch to each dish.
Mary Price: A Culinary Partner
Mary Price, Vincent’s wife, was also a key figure in the creation of this cookbook. Her culinary knowledge and passion for cooking played a crucial role in bringing this collection to life. Together, they were a dynamic team, offering recipes that could easily be recreated at home without losing the essence of the original dishes.
Cookbook Overview
A Collectible Classic
The Vincent Price Cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a piece of history. Originally published decades ago, it has since become a rare collectible. Despite its age, it remains relevant, praised by chefs and food critics alike. According to NPR, this cookbook is a “collectible classic,” proving that great food never goes out of style.
Recipes from Around the World
The cookbook features a diverse range of dishes from Europe, America, and beyond. From the haute cuisine of Europe’s finest restaurants to the casual comfort food found at places like Dodger Stadium, the recipes cover all tastes and occasions.
The dishes are easy to follow, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Price and his wife, Mary, wanted to make fine dining accessible to everyone.
Instead of complicated recipes that require special techniques or expensive ingredients, they created simple, straightforward dishes that anyone could make. This approach made the cookbook a hit among home cooks who wanted to enjoy delicious meals without the fuss.
A Personal Touch
Each recipe in the book is accompanied by witty commentary from Vincent Price. His playful and humorous writing adds a personal touch to the book, making it feel like a conversation with a friend rather than a typical cookbook. The book also includes beautiful color photographs and atmospheric illustrations by Fritz Kredel, making it as much a visual delight as a culinary one.
Recipe Categories
European Cuisine
The Vincent Price Cookbook includes a variety of European dishes, ranging from French classics to Italian favorites. These recipes reflect the elegance and tradition of European cooking but are presented in a simplified form. Dishes like Beef Wellington and Quiche Lorraine are made accessible to home cooks, giving them the opportunity to try their hand at sophisticated European meals.
American Comfort Food
For those who prefer something more familiar, the book also features American comfort food. Price’s take on dishes like Hot Dogs at Dodger Stadium and New York Cheesecake brings a nostalgic feel to the collection. These recipes are perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or any time you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
International Delights
In addition to European and American recipes, the cookbook explores flavors from around the world. Price and his wife traveled extensively and brought back inspiration from various countries. Recipes from places like Bali, Amsterdam, and Madrid are included, allowing readers to experience global cuisine from the comfort of their own kitchen.
Desserts and Sweets
No cookbook is complete without a section on desserts, and the Vincent Price Cookbook does not disappoint. From Chocolate Mousse to Baked Alaska, these sweet treats are sure to impress. Each recipe is designed to be as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, with easy-to-follow instructions that ensure even novice bakers can succeed.
Features
Beautiful Illustrations and Photographs
One of the standout features of this cookbook is its visual appeal. Fritz Kredel’s illustrations and color photographs bring the recipes to life, making it a joy to flip through. The book is not only a practical guide to cooking but also a work of art that can be proudly displayed on your kitchen shelf.
Personal Stories and Witty Commentary
Vincent Price’s witty commentary throughout the cookbook adds a personal and entertaining touch. His stories and reflections on the dishes create a connection between the reader and the recipe. It’s as if Price is right there in the kitchen with you, sharing his love of food and entertaining.
Retrospective Preface and Foreword
The Vincent Price Cookbook includes a retrospective preface by the couple’s daughter, Victoria Price, offering insight into the creation of the book and the family’s love for food. It also features a new foreword by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, adding an extra layer of expertise and admiration for Vincent Price’s culinary legacy.
The Vincent Price Cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a reflection of the actor’s love for food, family, and culture. With its approachable recipes, personal stories, and stunning visuals, this cookbook remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire cooks around the world. Whether you’re a fan of Vincent Price’s films or simply looking to add new dishes to your cooking repertoire, this cookbook is sure to delight.
Vincent Price, a legendary actor known for his roles in classic horror films, was also a passionate gourmet. His love for food and home cooking was just as notable as his acting career.
His cookbook, “Cooking Price-Wise,” offers a delightful collection of international recipes that showcase his enthusiasm for good food.
This cookbook, based on his popular television series from the 1970s, combines simple yet elegant dishes with stories and historical tidbits, making it a unique culinary treasure.
Cookbook Overview
Cooking Price-Wise is more than just a collection of recipes. It’s a reflection of Vincent Price’s deep love for cooking and his desire to share that passion with others. The book is built around the dishes he presented on his Thames Television series in the 1970s. This show celebrated international cuisine and inspired many viewers to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
The cookbook contains a wide variety of recipes that are both simple and delicious. From soups and breads to main courses and desserts, the dishes are easy to prepare with ingredients that are commonly found in supermarkets. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this book has something for everyone.
This expanded edition of the book adds a personal touch. It includes a Preface by Vincent’s daughter, Victoria Price, and a Foreword by his son, V.B. Price. Their contributions make the book even more special, offering insights into the Price family’s culinary traditions.
An added bonus section, “The Culinary Legacy of the Price Family,” features recipes passed down through generations, adding a historical and sentimental value to the cookbook.
Recipe Categories
The recipes in “Cooking Price-Wise” are organized into several categories, each offering a unique taste of global cuisine. These categories cover a wide range of meals, from hearty soups to indulgent desserts. Here’s a closer look at some of the main recipe sections in the book:
Soups and Starters
This section offers comforting and flavorful soups to start any meal. From light, refreshing vegetable soups to more filling options like creamy potato or rich tomato, there’s a soup for every occasion. The recipes are designed to be simple and quick, with ingredients you can find easily at your local store.
Main Courses
The main courses in this cookbook are where the true magic happens. Vincent Price’s love for international flavors shines through in dishes from all over the world.
You’ll find recipes for classic meats, poultry, and fish dishes, as well as vegetarian options. These main courses are perfect for family dinners, dinner parties, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests with something special.
Side Dishes
No meal is complete without a few delicious sides. The side dish section of the book includes various recipes that complement the main courses. Whether it’s a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty grain-based dish, these sides are both easy to make and full of flavor.
Desserts
No cookbook would be complete without a selection of sweet treats. Vincent Price’s dessert section features a variety of recipes, including cakes, pies, and cookies. These desserts are designed to satisfy any sweet tooth, and their easy-to-follow instructions make them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Features
“Cooking Price-Wise” stands out not only because of the delicious recipes but also because of its personal and historical features. Vincent Price’s legacy is woven throughout the book, giving it a unique character that sets it apart from other cookbooks.
Personal Insights and Family Contributions
The expanded edition includes a wealth of personal stories from Vincent Price’s family. His daughter, Victoria, shares her memories of growing up with a father who was not just an actor but a passionate cook. Her Preface adds a personal and emotional layer to the book, while her son, V.B. Price’s Foreword, gives readers a glimpse into the family’s deep culinary heritage.
Historical Tidbits
Throughout the book, you’ll find fascinating historical notes that add depth to the recipes. These tidbits offer a glimpse into the history of the dishes and the ingredients used in them. For example, Vincent Price’s grandfather invented baking powder, which is a key ingredient in many of the recipes in the book. Learning about these historical connections adds a layer of appreciation for the dishes.
The Culinary Legacy of the Price Family
One of the most unique features of this edition is the bonus section that delves into the Price family’s culinary history. The section includes recipes from Vincent Price’s grandfather, as well as journal entries from his trip to Europe at the age of 17. These personal stories and recipes offer a deeper understanding of how the Price family’s love of cooking has been passed down through generations.
Vincent Price’s Cooking Price-Wise is more than just a cookbook; it’s a celebration of family, history, and the joy of cooking. With its easy-to-make recipes, rich historical background, and personal touches from the Price family, this book is a must-have for anyone who loves good food and enjoys learning about the stories behind the dishes.
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The book offers more than just recipes; it presents a glimpse into the refined, sophisticated lifestyle of the mid-20th century. Whether you’re a collector, a fan of vintage dining, or simply looking to explore unique recipes, this cookbook offers something special.
Cookbook Overview
Vincent and Mary Price’s A Treasury of Great Recipes is more than a cookbook. It’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of a glamorous, postwar dining culture. First published in the 1960s, the book remains a beloved classic today. It’s revered not only for its recipes but for the rich, luxurious atmosphere it evokes.
The Prices traveled the world and brought back the best culinary ideas from various countries. This book showcases their passion for gourmet cooking and fine dining. It’s not just about food—it’s about creating an experience.
The book’s design, with its padded leatherette binding and silk bookmark, reflects the elegance of the era. It’s a timeless piece of culinary history that continues to inspire home cooks and collectors alike.
A Snapshot of 1960s Gourmet Dining
The book transports readers to a time when dinner parties were formal events. The Prices vision of dining isn’t rushed. It’s an art slow, graceful, and full of appreciation for the details. The recipes reflect this: no shortcuts, just the best ingredients and the patience to create something truly exceptional.
