Settlers of Catan... Cooking Competition?

Some companies never cease to amaze me. Board games are often seen as the everyday, placid, mainstream part of the tabletop gaming family, but really, their fanbase is as delightfully weird as any you'd hope for.

Case in point: Mayfair Games is holding its Second (?!) Annual Catan Food Contest! That's right! By December 31st, send in a picture or a video of your Catan-themed food creation along with an explanation (ranging from a sentence to a full-on anecdote) to culinarycatancontest@catanllc.com to be judged by an "experienced team of visual food critics."

Last year we received a myriad of different submissions. People sent us cupcakes, cakes, tapas, stir frys, and tarts. While wheat seems to be the preferred food source, feel free to explore other paths. Sushi Catan? Catan nachos? Sure, why not. Do whatever you like, as long as it is tasteful and has something to do with Catan. Remember that artistic appeal counts and the Catan theme in your creation must be prominent. Your creation should be visually stimulating and evident that it took some time to create.

Best of all, you're guaranteed a prize—every contestant will be sent a small souvenir. Yet if consolation prizes aren't your thing, third place gets you a copy of Elasund: The First City (a Catan Adventures game), second place will receive a copy of the fourth edition of Settlers of Catan, and first place will net you the fourth edition of Settlers of Catan, Catan Seafarers and Catan Cities and Knights.

If you are blessed with the dual skills of cookery and boardgamery, don't hesitate to head on over to the contest page!