In the early 19th century, a skilled cook named Otis "Cookie" Figowitz travels west with a group of fur trappers through the Oregon Territory. Struggling to find his place within the abrasive group, Cookie meets King-Lu, a Chinese immigrant on the run for allegedly murdering a Russian trader. The two form an unlikely friendship and dream of finding a way to make their fortune. Opportunity arises when a rich landowner imports the first cow into the region, and Cookie's culinary skills coupled with King-Lu's entrepreneurial spirit inspire them to secretly milk the cow at night.

Using the stolen milk, they create delicious "oily cakes" which quickly become a coveted delicacy among the settlers. Their newfound enterprise brings them modest success and enjoyment, but also attracts attention, raising suspicions about the source of their ingredients. As their business grows, so do the risks, presenting moral and practical challenges that test their partnership and survival. The tension between ambition and the looming threats force Cookie and King-Lu to navigate a delicate balance in a rugged, unforgiving environment.