Viz Media to release Pokémon-themed cookbook in December

Foodies who love Pokémon can now enjoy some sumptuous treats. Viz Media will be releasing The Pokémon Cookbook: Easy & Fun Recipes on 6 December this year, which will be packed with tasty Pokémon-themed treats. The cookbook, created by Maki Kudo, will feature over 35 recipes inspired by some of the franchise's most beloved characters in a variety of cuisines.

According to the publisher's press release, some entrees include Pikachu ramen, Poke ball sushi rolls, mashed Meowth potatoes and Psyduck omelettes.

"This book offers fans a tasty way to celebrate Pokémon with dozens of recipes inspired by the property's many iconic characters," senior editorial director for Viz Media, Beth Kawasaki said. "Filled with mouth-watering snacks, entrees and desserts, The Pokémon Cookbook is sure to become a fun and creative kitchen companion for families and foodies!"

This is not the first time the successful franchise has been infused into a culinary venture. In 2014, a pop-up restaurant in Tokyo called Pikachu Cafe opened – in conjunction with the premiere of Pokémon: The Movie XY – which served dishes including curry rice, parfait, pancakes and burgers shaped in the electric rodent's face.

Since the release of the Pokémon Red and Green versions for the Game Boy in 1996, the video game has gone on to become one of the most successful entertainment franchises in the world. The Pokémon Company International managed to generate $2.1bn (£1.4bn) in revenue last year, according to a recent License Global report.

Celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, the wildly popular franchise has sold more than 275 million video game titles and over 21.5 billion Pokemon trading cards in more than 74 countries, on top of merchandise and publishing sales.