"I'd never have guessed there were so many recipes one could make with mere potatoes, never much cared for them for decades, but that "mash' I ordered from the 'Come-on-Inn' with the garlic and the brown sauce on top was truly superb, so simple, yet one of the best things I've ever eaten, I'll have to pay that tavern another visit." -Ramses, Gordiin. 18 CA. Disastrously Good Recipes. Opulence, Scholar's Guild.
In Everwealth, the relentless grip of scarcity and the looming specter of starvation have profoundly shaped its culinary traditions. The populace has become adept at crafting meals that, while humble, provide the necessary sustenance to endure the harsh realities of their environment. Hearty stews and dense breads remain staples across all communities, offering both nourishment and a semblance of comfort. Vegetables, though scarce, are treasured when available, often forming the foundation of communal meals that transcend social classes. The Minotauri favor rich, spiced grain porridges that fuel their formidable strength, while the Dwarfish bake dense loaves infused with foraged roots and wild herbs, a testament to their resourcefulness. Elfese contribute lighter fare, preparing delicate vegetable dishes and teas brewed from calming forest herbs, providing moments of respite amidst turmoil. On rare occasions, communities unite in feasts featuring smoked meats, roasted game, and fermented delicacies unique to their cultures. Yet, these celebrations are fleeting, overshadowed by the ever-present struggle against hunger. Despite the challenges, food in Everwealth serves as a unifying force, with recipes passed down and shared, adapting to the harsh realities of the Highlands. A single meal, no matter how modest, becomes a moment of joy and camaraderie in a world defined by its struggles, a brief respite from the pervasive desperation that characterizes daily life.