Mock-Suckling
"Well, I dunno... I guess it's vegan. It comes from a plant."
Mock-sucklings, as one may expect, are the fruits of the Mock-Suckling Plant. Engineered to replace human sucklings in Altairian cuisine, they have since gained a special place in the hearts of their native Wheat Country and beyond.
Appearance
Mock-sucklings are fruits that somewhat resemble roasting chickens. They have four useless limbs jutting out from a round, featureless body and thin skin that turns brown and crispy when roasted. They are attached to their host plant via a woody, thick vine where the head would otherwise be. Despite being plants, the cells of a mock-suckling are closer to that of an animal, making them literal "plant-based meat."
Cutting one open reveals it to be filled with vestigial organ-like structures that can be used for a variety of dishes, as well as a large, hard seed pod. The pod contains 10-12 seeds on average, which can be re-planted to make new Mock-Suckling Plants.
Preparation
Mock-sucklings should be at least rinsed with water before cooking. Those available in markets are usually already rinsed before being put to sale.
The best ways to prepare a mock-suckling are braising, roasting, grilling, and smoking. Since they have a good balance of fat and protein, it is not necessary to brine them beforehand, nor to lock in moisture before cooking. While it technically can be enjoyed raw, most prefer to eat it cooked.
The seeds are poisonous, though not deadly if consumed. Rather, they cause stomachaches and diarrhea when consumed. Cooking gets rid of the poison, but even then the seeds are quite bitter. Hence, the seed pod is removed before cooking and only used for sowing new plants.
Flavor
Mock-suckling tastes like chicken mixed with pork. Its fat is highly savory and somewhat sweet.
Its nuanced flavor makes it highly versatile. It is served with all manner of vegetables, fruits, and spices. One common flavor combination is mock-suckling with maple butter and bacon. This preparation is especially common fare for Winter's End Barbecues and The Dark Carnival.
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