The Secrets of the M*A*S*H Mess: The Lost Recipes of Private Igor

Maxwell, Jeff

ISBN 10: 1888952415 / ISBN 13: 9781888952414

Published by Cumberland House Publishing, 1997

First Edition (1997.) Paperback, 8vo with 268 pages. Signed on the back of the front cover, "Doc Ogre, We share the experiences of a MASH in our pasts. I'm not sure which was more dangerous - your war or my showbiz career? Eat Heartly! Jeff Maxwell & Pvt. IGOR 98." The book is in very good condition with very slight shelf wear. Interior is clean and tight. Profusely illustrated. Pictures available upon request. "If you are a fan of M*A*S*H, . you will really enjoy this book and find the recipes a nice addition to your own collection." Black spine/Silver-White text. Size: 8vo. Seller Inventory # 034042

Synopsis:

This memory book and cookbook is by the actor who for nine years played Private Igor, the beleaguered cook of the M*A*S*H 4077th in the hit television series. It is a zesty blend of delicious and tasty recipes, memorable dialogue from the shows, photographs, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes.

Review: If you think war is hell, just try the food in the mess tent! For 11 years, fans of the television program M*A*S*H experienced the Korean War through the eyes of the doctors, nurses, and support personnel of the 4077th Mobil Army Surgical Hospital. One of the most important, though least appreciated, members of that brave band was Private Igor, the company cook. Almost every episode of M*A*S*H contained some reference to food--and it was never good. "Our food here leaves a lot to be desired," Commanding Officer Colonel Henry Blake states in one show. "Oh, it fills you up if you can keep it down." Regarding the breakfast entrée, Hawkeye Pierce exclaims, "I'm sure that was the same bacon that wrote Shakespeare's plays!"

So why, if Private Igor's food was so bad, should any cook in his or her right mind be interested in a collection of his long-lost recipes? According to Jeff Maxwell, author of Secrets of the M*A*S*H Mess and the actor who portrayed Igor for more than a decade, inside that poor, much-maligned purveyor of army swill was a gourmet chef struggling to get out. Imagine, if you will, what Private Igor might have been capable of if he'd had ingredients such as cilantro, turkey sausage, Kahlú'a, or fusilli pasta? A quick glance at recipes such as Helmet Hash, Pre-Op Novocaine Shake, and Winchester's Wilted Lettuce Caesar Salad will give you some idea. And while you're whipping up a Company Clerk Quiche, you can amuse yourself by perusing the many photographs, quotes, and letters home from Private Igor that are scattered through the pages of Secrets of the M*A*S*H Mess.

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Secrets of the M*A*S*H Mess: The Lost ...
Publisher: Cumberland House Publishing
Publication Date: 1997
Binding: Paperback
Condition: Very Good
Signed: Signed
Edition: 1st Edition.
Book Type: Cookbook / Humor / T.V.