True Blood, HBOs blockbuster paranormal drama, enthralls a diverse audience of 13 million viewers (and counting). Menus at the now-famous Fangtasia and Merlottes Bar and Grill play a key role in the series, providing sustenance for its human characters, evoking memories of a bygone life for its vampires, and serving as a powerful symbol for the desires and carnal needs the characters harbor. Its no wonder so many fans revel in at-home parties inspired by the food on the series! With recipes from unforgettable scenes, each entertainingly introduced by True Blood s most compelling characters, these 85 authentic bayou country recipes and 150-plus photos from the series give fans a big taste of Bon Temps. By Gianna Sobol and Alan Ball With Karen Sommer Shalett Recipes by Marcelle Beinvenu Food photographs by Alex Farnum Gianna Sobol is an associate producer on HBOs hit series True Blood. She lives in Los Angeles. Alan Ball is the creator, writer, and producer of the HBO original series True Blood and Six Feet Under. He lives in Los Angeles (but has deep Southern roots). Karen Sommer Shalett is the editor-in-chief of DC magazine, and a former staff writer for New Orleans Times-Picayune. Marcelle Bienvenu is co-author of the bestselling New Orleans heritage cookbook, Cookin Up a Storm.