Embark on a culinary journey inspired by the survival horror sensation, Resident Evil Village. Beyond the scares and thrills, the game subtly introduces players to the rich and hearty world of Romanian cuisine through The Duke’s Kitchen. If you’re intrigued by the food Ethan Winters encounters in his terrifying quest, you’re in for a treat. We’re diving into the delectable side of Resident Evil, exploring real-world Romanian recipes that mirror the dishes found in the game. Get ready to discover how to bring a taste of Resident Evil Food to your own kitchen – no monster hunting required!
001. Herbed Fish with Dill and Horseradish Sauce: Pește Alb Cu Sos Marar și Hrean
Herbed Fish, as featured in Resident Evil Village, opens the door to a classic Romanian culinary experience. This dish closely resembles Pește Alb Cu Sos Marar și Hrean, meaning White Fish with Dill and Horseradish Sauce. Dill is undeniably a cornerstone of Romanian cooking, and a true Romanian kitchen is rarely without fresh horseradish. This recipe perfectly encapsulates the fresh and flavorful nature of Romanian cuisine, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Resident Evil food.
Check out the full recipe here!
002. Bird and Beast Pilaf: Pilaf din Ficat de Pui (Chicken Liver Pilaf)
The Duke’s Kitchen’s “Bird and Beast Pilaf” hints at a hearty and flavorful dish. While the game recipe calls for poultry and meat, it evokes the spirit of Pilaf din Ficat de Pui, or Chicken Liver Pilaf. This Romanian pilaf recipe offers a richer, more unique flavor profile. While you could certainly use a combination of meats, focusing on chicken liver creates an authentic and deeply flavorful dish that’s both comforting and adventurous – a true representation of Resident Evil food inspiration.
Explore the Chicken Liver Pilaf recipe!
003. Three-Flavored Mititei (Grilled Sausages)
Mititei, also known as Mici (meaning “small ones”), are iconic Romanian grilled sausages, and the “Three-Flavored Mititei” in Resident Evil Village gives a nod to this summer staple. Traditionally, Mititei are made with a blend of ground beef and pork. The “three-flavored” aspect in the game – fish, poultry, and meat – is a creative, albeit less traditional, twist. Imagine enjoying these flavorful sausages at a picnic, just like they are in Romania, bringing a taste of authentic Resident Evil food to your table. Typically served with mustard and crusty bread, Mititei are a must-try for any fan of grilled meats and Romanian flavors.
004. Chicken and Pea Stew: Tochitură de Pui / Tocană de Mazăre cu Pui
The “Chicken and Pea Stew” from The Duke’s Kitchen brings to mind two similar Romanian stew dishes: Tochitură de Pui and Tocană de Mazăre cu Pui. Both Tochitură and Tocană translate to “stew,” but tochitură specifically refers to “slow-fried meat in fat,” offering a rich and deeply savory flavor. Adding peas (mazăre) creates a Tocană de Mazăre cu Pui, a comforting and wholesome stew. Whether you opt for a richer Tochitură or a more vegetable-forward Tocană, this Resident Evil food inspiration is perfect for a hearty and warming meal, reminiscent of a cold night in the village.
005. Sour Pork Soup: Ciorbă de Porc
Soups, especially pork soups, are a significant part of Romanian cuisine. Ciorbă de Porc, or Sour Pork Soup, is a prime example and a likely inspiration for Resident Evil food. Romanians have countless variations of pork soups, often packed with seasonal vegetables. Ciorbă de Porc is the quintessential comfort food for chilly days, perfectly mirroring the bleak and cold atmosphere of Resident Evil Village. This soup is a flavorful and nourishing dish that truly captures the essence of Romanian home cooking and Resident Evil’s culinary influences.
Find the Sour Pork Soup recipe here!
006. Cabbage Rolls with Fish: Sarmale de Pește
Sarmale, Romanian cabbage rolls, are a national dish, traditionally filled with meat and rice. However, Resident Evil Village presents an intriguing variation: Sarmale de Pește, or Cabbage Rolls with Fish. While less common than their meat-filled counterparts, fish sarmale are indeed a Romanian dish, showcasing the versatility of this classic. This unique take on sarmale might even make you wonder if the cabbage rolls seen at the beginning of Resident Evil Village were actually Sarmale de Pește! Whether you’re a purist or an adventurous eater, exploring fish sarmale offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse world of Romanian cuisine and the unexpected Resident Evil food connections.
While Resident Evil Village might be known for its horror, it also offers a subtle introduction to the delicious world of Romanian food. These recipes, inspired by The Duke’s Kitchen, provide a fantastic starting point to explore Romanian cuisine and bring a unique, game-inspired culinary experience to your own home. Pofta Buna! (Good appetite!)
