Elven strands

Summary

Elven strands are a staple of Dorian cuisine. These thin noodles are made from hard root vegetables such as rocktatoes and purple carrots. Depending on the raw ingredient, they come in different colors and flavors.

Specialized knives called shavers are used to carve the hard vegetable into thin layers, which are then cut into strips. The noodles are tied into knots, using coarse flour to keep them separated, and are then sun-dried until they harden enough to be stored. They keep for a long time and provide reliable sustenance.

The dried noodles can be used in several dishes, but one of the most beloved recipes is known as the Forager's Dish:

To feed a family of four, cut two baskets of forest mushrooms and add them to a large kettle.
If you find some truffle, you can add half a head for the flavor.
Cook the mushrooms until they sweat their water away.
You can then add some flavorings, such as mashed garlic, leeks, and spring onions.
Add some oil and continue cooking until the fragrance hits the roof of your mouth.
Add salt and pepper, then take the kettle off the heat and transfer its contents to a mortar.
With a pestle, produce a fine paste.
Meanwhile, return the kettle to your fire and fill it with water or stock.
Submerge four elven strands inside and let them cook until they soften.
Keep one cup of the liquid. You can discard the rest or save it for sauces and soups.
Serve the softened noodles with tongs into large bowls, then add the paste and some of the reserved liquid. Stir to combine.
If you prepare this dish for a special occasion, make sure to add some fresh goat cheese.
Your meal is now ready — enjoy!

— Valla's guide to Dorian cuisine

by Dall-E

Origins and spread

Despite their name, elven strands have probably nothing to do with elves. The origins of this food are traced back to the Age of Barbarity, when Dorians needed reliable provisions for the month of Sleep, during which they migrated toward caves and sheltered places, especially those who lived in the colder north.

The name is probably a neologism, referring to the color and delicate nature of the noodles.
Though distinctly Dorian in origin, elven strands have won the hearts of many beyond the kingdom’s borders.

Dwarves are known to call them "edible beard" in their own tongue, perhaps to avoid using a name associated with another species.

Elven strands in modern cuisine

Apart from the common household, one can find refined dishes made with this ingredient in upscale places, such as the old city district in Skarm, where the renowned "stranded lobster" is served.

The advancements made in the fields of agriculture, engineering and commerce have led to the mass production of this staple in manufactures, which then distribute their product throughout the Dorian market. New flavors and variations are constantly emerging, aided by natural or synthetic dyes and experimental ingredients. A few daring cooks have even tried replicating elven strands using coarse flour-and-egg dough — only to face harsh criticism, with some nearly denounced as culinary heretics.

Visitors from foreign countries finding the local cuisine palatable have also led to a growing interest in exports.