Monday, October 4, 2021

Book Nook: The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook


Hocus Pocus
 first premiered 28 years ago in the golden age of ’90s cinema, and has since achieved cult-classic fame with both children and adults as a loyal fanbase. Now as you plan a viewing of the family favorite flick, you can also conjure up your own spooky treats and bewitching drinks to celebrate Halloween.

The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook: Bewitchingly Delicious Recipes for Fans of the Halloween Classic by Bridget Thoreson is a marvelously spooky cookbook featuring delicious recipes based on your favorite cult classic film from 1993.

I had a chance to see a copy of the cookbook, which is filled with a lot of recipes that are perfect for any Halloween gathering, even if you aren't basing it around the movie's theme. There are recipes for sweet and savory, quick bites and more filling dishes, all with clearly written directions in a fun, delightfully magical theme.

I had a chance to interview the author to learn more.

-Why did you write this book?
I have always been a huge fan of the movie Hocus Pocus! I’ve watched it multiple times a year for decades. When I heard that a sequel was finally green-lit I knew that I had to do something to celebrate this iconic movie and since I work in book publishing, a cookbook seemed the perfect fit!
-Why do Halloween-themed recipes intrigue both adults and children?
I think that people who like Halloween find Halloween themed recipes a little bit macabre or playfully gruesome. Kids as well, probably find it a little bit gross to make “dead man's toes” or peeled grape eyeballs but it’s funny and because it’s food you stop just short of being too gross!
-What are your favorite tips for Halloween entertaining?
Ambience is key! But you don’t have to go hard into the spook factor; a warm, autumnal vibe is perfect even if you’re going for a full costume party. Also, make sure your food runs the gamut of options. You’ll want light finger foods (like the Dead Man’s Toes appetizer) as well as a warm hearty dish (perhaps Black Magic Beef Stew) for a cool fall night. And of course dessert and candy is a must but try having a salty or savory snack option as well, like roasted pumpkin seeds or salty caramel corn!

Bridget Thoreson is a writer and book-lover based in Brooklyn, New York. Her other books include XOXO: A Cocktail Book and consulting for Are You My Wine? Clearly, Bridget is very interested in drinking, eating, and pop culture.

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