In the black depths of coves and rocky shores live large eyed eels. These eels have prodigious eyes, bulging spheres that lurk from shadowed and overhanging stones. These eyes are coveted by locals for its exquisite flavor and taste, though hardly anyone outside of the coastal regions can stomach it, even with magic.
Preparation
Gathering eels
Locals gather eels from muddy holes in the banks of the swamp. They have devised long, skinny poles with wire that loops around the heads to capture the eels. The fishers put a cloth sack in front of the hole. The design is to allow water to pass but not the eel. About three are needed to create the soup.
Creating the stock
Purified water is brough to a boil with radishes, turnips, celery, carrots, and squash with spices. The vegetables infuse the water with flavor. The stock at this point can be stored for later use, but mostly is used immediately.
Creating the soup
The eels are cleaned right before adding them to the soup. Their fillets are tenderized by hand before slipping in. The eyes are last to be added, properly salted and spiced.
Eye of the eel
The most treasured part of the meal. The eyes soak up the flavor and salt and spices. Biting into one is described as biting into an egg cooked over-easy.
Cultural Impact
Cultural significance
No other food easily defines the outer banks of the Paluch than eeleye soup. If they ever travel abroad, the outer bankers miss the food, and try to recreate it but to no avail.
Although started in the outer banks, those further inside Paluchia find the dish appealing. Some restaurants sell it with the spin of trying the "exotic outer banks' finest." It's slowly catching on.
Outside of Paluch
Many visitors to these backwater places are surprised and slightly offended when offered the eyes at dinner. The burst of flavor and substance causes a reaction. The people are aware and always delight in seeing how much their guest will actually eat before giving up.
This was a great article, I really liked it! Especially that you described how to catch the eels, and also the restaurants that make a version of the soup for the outsiders. Good work!