The most ubiquitous and beloved dish found in every district of Haven is the Ground Keeper's Stew. It is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the O'che, as it is made almost entirely from ingredients cultivated and cared for by the Grounds. This simple yet flavorful stew is a constant on every table, though its preparation varies greatly with social standing.
The stew is built on three core ingredients:
- Stragu: The savory, gamy meat from a small, furry mammal raised by Grounds.
- Guard Tubers: A bright green, potato-like vegetable that provides a rich, earthy base.
- Purple Hulls: The sweet, delicate peas that add color and a familiar flavor.
In its most basic form, the Low Lands version of the stew is a thick, nourishing porridge. Grounds, who have learned to prepare the gamy Stragu meat carefully, slow-roast it over a low fire to tenderize it. The Guard Tubers are mashed with the still-tough Purple Hulls and mixed with the shredded meat to create a filling, energy-rich meal that sustains them through their hard work.
In the bustling Low Circuit, the stew is a bit more refined. Artisans and traders favor a more robust, flavorful broth. They boil the Stragu meat for hours with the Guard Tubers, allowing the savory flavor to permeate the broth. The Purple Hulls are added at the very end to retain their pop and color, creating a visually appealing and satisfying meal.
For the elite of the High Circuit, the stew is a delicate and elegant creation. Chefs will tenderize the Stragu meat with refined herbs and spices, then purée the bright green Guard Tubers into a velvety, shimmering liquid. The Purple Hulls are carefully shelled and added as an exquisite garnish, turning a humble dish into a masterpiece of texture and flavor. The stew serves as a constant, subtle reminder of their reliance on the hard work of the Grounds below.
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