Plague Caps

Plague caps are Brown-capped and long-stalked mushrooms that grow in clusters in cold damp areas, it common to find them in the rocky alcoves of cliffs and caves. Because of this they have a tendency to spring up around the entrances of the Elven Network Trade Route. This has led to paranoia that they carry the plague which killed the elven race. Plague caps have a pungent and earthy aroma, and feel soft and springy to the touch. They are described as being tough and rubbery when eaten raw, but become deliciously tender and moist when heated over slowly a low heat, making them ideal for soups and stews. They can also be fried in oil and many smaller settlements enjoy them soaked in broth, dredged in flour and fried. A variant of this is called the drunkards mushrooms here it's required the mushroom to be soaked in wine and served with a beef and wine sauce and spooned over Spatlez. When cook on their own Plague caps are said to have an earthy, slightly salty taste reminiscent of meat.
The Orcs have culturally enjoyed eating plague caps for centuries,

Contraband

Plague caps are still considered as one of many Contraband Items although possession of it will not get you arrested let alone executed anyone in possession will have the mushrooms confiscated to be destroyed and may be issues a hefty fine. Recently, the city of Wintrow has lifted all restrictions on the plague cap within their city walls as food is far harder to grow in their environment and Plague caps are an excellent alternative when meat is scarce.

History

Their approximation to the tunnels caused humans from centuries past to become filled with a paranoia that that the mushrooms may carry the same disease that wiped out the Elves, concerned that eating or even touching them may infect you with the Mage's plague. Hence the name plague cap. At this time laws were put in preventing humans from touching any vegetation too close to the tunnels on pain of execution, It was a way of also deterring humans from exploring the tunnels in the first place. Several Centuries later, few people believe that the mushroom were the cause of the plague or have any chance of carrying it, but the lingering hysteria is still baked into the public consciousness. It is no longer a threat of execution but humans are strongly discouraged from interacting with it, including eating it, growing it and trading it.

Item type

Consumable, Food / Drink

Rarity

Plague caps are extemely common, they primarily grow in caves and around stones but have also been found in settlement with cold dark areas, such as sewers, stables and and at the base of the castle walls.