Culinary Ethnography
Eating in the Underdark
Part 1 - What’s for Dinner?
This is a longer writeup going into the intricacies of the Underdark biome, its ecology and their culinary applications. If you would like a footnotes version of this text for easier referencing, that can be found here.
Table of Contents
The Underdark is a location that speaks for itself, the place below even the thickest darkness. Rather than a specific locale, the Underdark is made up of a series of underground caverns and tunnels that run below our lands. As Mordekainnen has described it,
“Absence of light results in darkness, so what results from the absence of Good? The Underdark is a place with very little of either”
Of all the places in our world, few are more inhospitable to life than the Underdark, a realm of eternal shadow where every being is honed to fight and kill for the little resources available. Survival seems nigh impossible, yet, they do survive, and to survive, they must eat. Let’s discuss exactly what food is like in the Underdark, both for the races that preside down there, and for you if you ever find yourself unlucky enough to need to visit.
First off, it is important to note that I am discussing this from a matter of culinary interest. Yes, basically every living thing is eaten in the Underdark by one entity or another. But I am looking at this from the lens of what I personally would prepare with the ingredients available. This should also obviously preclude the matter of cannibalism. While some of the beings in the Underdark do partake in the practice, it is not one that I personally subscribe to, and would hope you don’t either.
This discussion will be separated into two parts. This first part will discuss many of the various flora and fauna that are consumed in the Underdark with some brief discussions of their culinary applications and significance.
The second part will discuss more of the cultural aspects of various groups in the Underdark, including recipes and culinary traditions.
Without further ado, let’s jump into what you can expect to eat if you find yourself below ground level.
Algae, Mold and Fungi:
Let’s begin our discussion with the building blocks of nutrition in the Underdark: algae, slime mold and fungi. On the surface, the sun gives life to plants, which are then eaten by all manner of living creatures, giving sustenance to the life cycles around us. But what happens when there is no sunlight to start that chain reaction? Life finds a way. In the Underdark instead of plants soaking up the sunlight and serving as the foundation for the rest of the food chain, we find 3 major sources of base nutrition: algae, slime mold, and fungi. Algae is generally found in the cavern lakes deep below the surface, slime mold commonly grows on cave walls and soil through the underdark, and fungi grows on any organic matter it can find, the final composting system that returns all to the muck and dirt. Some scholars believe the true source of energy that starts these chain reactions is bits of latent magical energy from a time long before, but studies on this subject are still underway and inconclusive. What we do know is that almost all life in the darkness starts from these basic blocks of the food chain.
These three categories are a big portion of the edible sustenance in the Underdark. While all food is sparse down here, this is the most common piece of many diets. In many hierarchical societies, only the highest classes commonly consume meat, so the vast majority live off of fungi, algae, slime molds, and water. Some will get to have meat during specific celebrations, but for many denizens of the Underdark, they will go their entire lives subsisting on just one of these food sources.
Algae:
While on the surface we have spices based on plants that are ground up, different algaes are also dried and ground up into powders. Each one is very different in flavor, and just as we instantly know the difference between paprika and cumin just in our heads, an Underdark resident would also be able to imagine the difference between “Rustgrime” and “Greenspeckle” varieties of algae. The first has an almost metallic taste that dries your mouth out, an interesting sensation for those that did not grow up with it. Greenspeckle on the other hand has an effervescent feeling on the palate, the closest thing I could say would be dried mint, but that is just a distant approximation. These are far from the full spectrum, with dozens of different types of algaes in common use. An average kitchen may have one or two on hand, while a royal court may be stocked with over 100 individual types for various dishes.
Here is a quick list of the 7 most commonly used Algae for flavoring in the Underdark, and their general tasting notes:
Rustgrime: A dry, red algae that flakes apart into powder the moment it is touched. It tastes metallic and dry, the same sensation as licking a copper coin, yet less unpleasant.
Greenspeckle: Almost fluorescent green. Even when dried, it feels like it is still moist. It tastes cooling and vibrant, and very herbaceous .
Blackspark: Looks and feels like tar. It tastes like burnt brown sugar, deeply sweet and almost coffee-like.
Button Leaf: Small brown algae “florets” congeal into little pads that look like small leaves. This is a name given by some surface dwellers, as more in the underdark don’t even know what leaves are. In the Underdark it is more common to hear it called “Bat Skin”. The taste is very similar to that of ground holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Gristleweed: This vibrant green algae forms long curling wisps that wrap around your limbs if you suspend yourself in water. It tastes like the smell of wet hay, or the ground after it rains.
Stone Coral: Dull grey algae that bunches up into rocklike structures as it continues to build on top of itself. After being dried and ground up, it tastes like fish bones.
Bluesmoke: This is a very rare algae that I’ve only seen grow in ponds in Mind Flayer lairs where latent psionic energy abounds. The algae itself looks like bright blue fire on the surface of the water. The taste is that of pure electricity, but that may just be the mana it still holds. Dark Elves have a particular fondness for this algae and use it in certain rituals and ceremonies. While difficult to source, its popularity in royal dishes makes it well known.
Not all algae is so flavorful however. “White” algaes are commonly dried up and ground up into flours which can then be used for baked goods, or coating other ingredients before cooking. While these are called white algaes, they do come in other colors, many of which are not white at all, but it is common nomenclature tracing back to alabaster algae found in many Aboleth caverns. Many of those who are under the control of an Aboleth subsist on nothing more than alabaster algae boiled in water, creating a flavorless gruel with the bare minimum required for survival. In fact, this tactic has been utilized by many of the cruel taskmasters that reside in the underdark, and as such “algae soup” is a term used for any sort of subsistence food that is reserved for the lowest dregs of a society.
Slime Mold:
These interesting molds grow from simple spores and can foster in either soil or on moist rock walls. While they spread out like mold does over a surface, they have a much more sticky and slimy texture than the fuzzy types of mold we are accustomed to on the surface. Many of these molds are completely inedible to most races, but some of them can be harvested and either dried out and ground into powder, or mixed directly into dishes. Edible slime molds are highly acidic, and very useful for adding flavor to dishes.
Some slime molds can be pressed for long enough to excrete a greasy liquid that can then be used in the same way we use vegetable oils. It is commonly known as “slime syrup”, or something approximating that translation in the various dialects of the Underdark. This slime syrup is a more easily attainable oil than just animal and monster fats, which are rather scarce and only available to the lucky and privileged. Slime syrup is used for frying, sauteing, and also infusing other flavors. Many households will have clay jugs of slime syrup with various algae, slime molds, and fungus in them to impart a stronger, longer lasting flavor than those ingredients could impart on their own.
Fungi:
Fungi round out the culinary trinity of the Underdark. They are a vital source of nutrition and flavor for most anyone down here due to how common they are. Good fungi will pop up anywhere there is death and decay, nature’s clean up crew so to say. Thankfully, there is no shortage of death in the Underdark. Any grouping of old organic material can be a good fostering place for fungi, but different fungi have different qualifications for where they like to grow. For example, Bluecap, the grain of the underdark, seems to enjoy fertile loam that is rich with nutrients from the corpses of insects. This mushroom can be ground into flour and then baked into dense breads, and is commonly spiced with other flavoring agents as it is rather bland on its own. It can also be used for the creation of higher proof spirits in a similar way that we use barley and wheat.
Waterorb on the other hand is an aquatic fungus, always sprouting near bodies of water, and containing a good amount of water itself that can be easily accessed, a boon for adventurers and locals alike. The Waterorb looks for compounds of decay stored in the water, but is not interested in the water itself. As such, it is quite adept at cleaning tainted sources of water. While the lake or stream they are growing in may be unfit for drinking, the water stored inside the Waterorb is perfectly fine.
Some fungi require specific creatures dying to sprout from their spores, but other fungi go out of their way to make it happen. For example, let’s take a look at the Slumberstalk, a thin spindly mushroom that grows to no more than a foot tall. These mushrooms are pitch black and easy to miss in the eternal darkness, but you better hope you don’t. These fungi can detect living creatures, and when movement passes, it uses its long stalk to propel a large explosion of spores into the air. These spores are quite deadly to most living things, causing unconsciousness and then suffocation within minutes if inhaled. This is because the Slumberstalk spores only grow on fresh flesh, and so it is more than happy to trap some. This can lead to large swaths of Slumberstalk fields and caverns that expand as more and more creatures make the mistake of passing by. Entire villages can be wiped out by what starts as a single Slumberstalk spore. Slumberstalks grow in boom and bust cycles because of this, killing all of the life in an area, then expelling spores that lay dormant in the soil, laying in wait for a single source of new life to be extinguished on top of it.
That being said, Slumberstalks themselves are totally harmless, it is just the inhalation of the spores that are deadly. As long as you have proper protective equipment, and a lesser restoration spell at the ready in case you mess up, the spores can be removed from the mushroom and disposed of, leaving behind a quite unique fungus. They can be cooked into amazing dishes, with a rich earthy flavor that tastes almost metallic, like a blood sausage. These are quite a delicacy as incorrect handling and harvesting is quickly fatal, but with proper precautions and equipment, one village’s massacre can be an intrepid chef’s boon.
Mosses:
Deep cavern mosses are much different than those we find in the forest or in shallow caves. Instead of luscious, dark greens, these mosses are luminescent, ranging from white to yellow. They are found deep in the caves of some aboleths, mindflayers, and underdark beholders. It is believed that these mosses are similar in form, but much different in operation than the mosses we are familiar with on the surface. While they also grow in expanding clumps that feel soft to the touch, these mosses feed on residual magical energy left behind from high concentrations of powerful beings who have made these places their home. These mosses have a variety of culinary uses, but can be very difficult to harvest due to the aforementioned powerful creatures that control the lair where it resides.
Glow moss can be separated from the loam it grows on, cleaned, and eaten directly, giving the closest mouthfeel to a green leafy vegetable that you will get in the Underdark. Some locals will boil it first and drain it to reduce the bitter taste it naturally has, but others will argue that the bitter flavor is the biggest part of the appeal. These culinarians will also steep this moss in hot water to produce a tea that concentrates the flavor, and is used by some mystics and sages in various rituals as they claim it amplifies their magical abilities.
The moss can also be crushed with a mortar and pestle into a glowing paste, and then sauteed off in a hot pan with oil, creating a good flavor base for various meats and vegetables. Some drow chefs will use this method to make something resembling a curry, spicing it with various ground algaes, such as “Button Leaf” and “Greenspeckle”.
However, most importantly, glow moss is often chopped into large blocks and smoked very lightly over a fire to dry out. These moss bricks are then used as a fuel source for smoking the mushrooms that are used for fermentation and creating various underdark spirits, such as Bluecap liquor. This smoking process imparts a deep flavor that is impossible to achieve otherwise. It is so important in the process, that various Underdark drinks are separated by whether the spirit was “mossed” or “unmossed”.
Moonmilk:
Said to be made of petrified moonbeams, this alabaster white liquid can be harvested from soft white rock deposits in some rare caves. Its applications are primarily medicinal, useful for a variety of treatments according to Underworld denizens, ranging from fevers and heartburn to various rashes. It is made into both topical salves, and also combined with various drinks to be ingested by mouth.
However, just like many medicinal herbs and tinctures, it has transcended its purpose as purely for healing the sick, and is often made into drinks purely for the purpose of taste. When you drink it, it coats your tongue with a light film of what feels like cream. The taste is very light and hard to discern, but it leaves you feeling rather content. I have even seen it used as a thickener in some soups and stews, the same way we would add dairy at the end of cooking. It is a rather versatile ingredient that many Underdark chefs wish they could get their hands on more reliably.
Roots:
One may not expect to find forms of plant life commonly associated with the sunlit world above. However, roots and tubers from surface vegetation can sometimes extend deep into the subterranean passages, providing a vital and consistent source of nourishment for the cave-dwelling communities. These roots are often thick, gnarled, and filled with the nutrients necessary for survival in such a harsh environment.
The surface plants connected to these roots are usually towering, ancient trees or extensive networks of hardy shrubs whose roots have delved deep in search of water and minerals. These roots can stretch for miles and are often as thick as a man’s arm, providing a substantial yield when harvested. Different types of roots offer different flavors and nutritional benefits: some may be starchy and filling, while others could be rich in natural sugars or have medicinal properties.
Cultivating and harvesting these roots is no simple task. Due to the dark environment, they grow slowly and can be tough and fibrous. The communities that rely on these roots often have specialized tools for harvesting, including serrated blades for sawing through the tough exterior, and spades for digging around roots without damaging them. It’s also crucial for these communities to harvest sustainably, taking care to not remove too much of the root at once, which could kill the surface plant and eliminate a vital food source. It is not an uncommon tale to hear of political struggles in an area enticing competing factions to stockpile larger and larger amounts of roots, to the point that it completely kills the plant and both factions starve. In fact, this is such a common tale, the phrase “snatching too many roots” is a metaphor in the Underdark for situations where greed will eventually make one suffer.
In terms of culinary use, they are most commonly boiled to soften their fibers, making them easier to eat or prepare for further consumption. Many Underdark chefs have also devised methods of roasting, frying and fermenting these roots to bring out their unique flavors. They are often combined with subterranean fungus and algae, or used as a base for stews that include Underdark delicacies like molluscs and lizard meat.
Moreover, these plants are not just food. They have additional uses that make them invaluable to Underdark societies. The fibrous material can be used to make ropes or woven into textiles, and the natural resins found in some roots serve as adhesives or sealants. When dried and powdered, certain roots serve as components in alchemical concoctions, and their medicinal properties make them a key ingredient in balms and salves.
Their importance to various communities in the Underdark can not be overstated. Even groups living further in the depths than these roots reach, will commonly send expedition parties up the caves in order to harvest them and return them to the community. The death of a single grand tree on the surface, can cause difficulties and even displacement of various groups in the Underdark, though life in the Underdark is never safe and stable for long.
Meats:
Meat is a delicacy in the Underdark. Despite the fact that it is “eat or be eaten”, most living creatures feed on whatever scraps and detritus they can get their hands and mouths on. We will discuss some of the various meats that are commonly seen from the lowliest of tables, to the highest of Drow courts.
Molluscs and Gastropods:
Unique species of mollusks and gastropods have evolved to survive this harsh environment. These creatures often exhibit dark, black, or translucent coloring, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with their surroundings. These hues serve as camouflage, aiding them in both predation and evasion from predators. Remarkably, some of these species can grow to sizes much larger than those found on the surface, thanks to the unique nutrients they are able to glean from their environment.
These creatures are omnivores, feeding on a wide array of organic material, from plant matter to detritus, and even other living creatures if they are sure they can overpower them with no risk. One of their most intriguing survival mechanisms is their ability to enter a state of suspended animation when food is scarce. In this state, their metabolic processes slow down dramatically, allowing them to survive for long periods without sustenance until conditions improve.
The meat of these creatures is some of the most common meat that you can reliably source. The flesh is often described as having a rich, umami flavor with subtle earthy undertones, likely a result of their varied diet. It's a hearty base for stews, and thin slices can be smoked or cured for preservation. Grilling is less common as it toughens the meat, but slow-cooking methods like braising bring out the flavors excellently. The large size of these creatures means that one animal can provide a substantial amount of meat, making it a popular choice for communal feasts. However, due to their ability to go into suspended animation, it’s crucial to ensure that the creature is fully dispatched before beginning the cooking process, lest it wake up in the middle of preparation.
Cave Lizards:
Cave reptiles such as lizards and blind snakes represent a versatile and important part of the ecosystem. Adapted to life in the dark, these reptiles have developed heightened senses of smell and touch to navigate their environment. Much like the mollusks and gastropods of this subterranean world, cave lizards often display dark or translucent skin to camouflage with the rocky terrain. Their sizes can vary dramatically, from small skittering species that can fit in the palm of your hand to imposing creatures that rival the length of a human.
Underdark reptiles do face a daunting problem though: being cold-blooded, there is no opportunity for them to bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. As such, different species have developed various techniques for dealing with this issue. Some reptiles are known for only building nests near geothermal vents to use those for temperature regulation. Others live communally and spend most of their time away from hunting forming massive piles to generate heat with friction against each other. Some others have even been theorized to utilize residual magical energy around magic hotspots such as Mind Flayer lairs and Aboleth caverns, though this is still being studied.
Cave lizards are opportunistic feeders, thriving on insects, small creatures and even plant matter when available. Their adaptability has made them a staple in the food chain of the Underdark, not just as predators, but also as prey for larger inhabitants. They play a dual role in the community as both the hunters and the hunted, and are essential for ecological balance.
One of the most sought-after byproducts of cave lizards are their oil, extracted from the fat of these creatures. Rich in nutrients and remarkably stable, lizard oil is a ubiquitous cooking medium in the Underdark kitchens. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for frying, and its neutral flavor ensures that it doesn’t overpower the taste of the food being cooked. Moreover, the oil possesses preservative qualities, making it invaluable for packing food items for long-term storage.
When it comes to cooking the lizards themselves, their varying sizes offer a plethora of culinary possibilities. Smaller specimens are often skewered and roasted whole, with their tender meat taking on a smoky flavor. Medium-sized reptiles might be fileted and pan-seared, often served with a sauce made from local fungi and algae. The largest of the species require more elaborate cooking methods such as slow-roasted to tenderize their more muscular meat. No matter the size, the lizard meat is usually marinated in its own oil along with spices, enhancing its natural flavors and ensuring a moist, succulent dish.
Whether as a source of nourishing oil or as a versatile meat option, cave lizards hold a central place in the cuisine and culture of the Underdark. Their varied roles in cooking and preservation showcase the ingenuity of the subterranean community in making the most of their unique environment.
Bugs:
No matter where you go in the world, it feels like bugs and worms occupy an important part of the food chain, and the Underdark is no exception. Adapted to life in eternal darkness, these creatures have developed unique features that make them stand out from their surface-dwelling counterparts. One example is the “Gloom Beetle”, a fist-sized insect with an exoskeleton that can refract minimal light, making it nearly invisible in the dark. Another is the “Shadow Worm” a long, ribbon-like worm that can grow up to a meter in length. Its dark, segmented body allows it to blend in with the rocky terrain, making it an elusive prey for predators. Our last example is the “Umbral Mantis”, a predatory creature that can grow up to three feet in length. While it bears no familial connection to the mantises on the surface, this insect also uses its large forelimbs for seizing prey in a similar motion, earning its name. However instead of a set of long dextrous legs, this creature has a flat, slim abdomen with many tiny legs it uses to scurry up walls, and hold itself there in hiding until a target passes by.
These bugs and worms serve as a primary food source for many larger animals and sentient beings of the Underdark. Rich in protein and other nutrients, they are often harvested en masse for consumption. When it comes to culinary applications, the denizens of the Underdark have developed numerous methods to prepare these creepy crawlies. The Gloom Beetle for instance has a nutty, earthy flavor when roasted and is often enjoyed as a snack, or ground into a flour like substance for baking. Shadow Worms are often simmered in broths and are even dried to preserve them for adding a unique umami effect to various liquid based recipes. Umbral Mantises have tough meat that needs to either be slow roasted, or dried and preserved to gradually tenderize over time as it cures. A travel ration similar to jerky is commonly made with this meat. The forearms are also stripped of their long claws, which are then used for fashioning utensils and tools, demonstrating the inhabitant’s ability to use every part of every creature.
While these smaller species are staple foods for many denizens, some larger bug monsters like Carrion Crawlers are considered rare delicacies. These massive, centipede-like creatures can grow up to several meters long and are fearsome predators in their own right. Capturing one is a dangerous endeavor, making its meat rare and highly prized. When cooked, the flesh of a Carrion Crawler is tender and flavorful, often described as a cross between lobster and veal. It’s usually served in royal courts in the Underdark, or at the tables of whatever warlords can secure the largest territories and order around the most slaves. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, from steamed and served in light broths, to charcoal-grilled with a drizzle of aged fungus infused lizard oil.
Whether served as a staple protein or a rare delicacy, bugs and worms of the Underdark offer a cornucopia of culinary opportunities. They form an integral part of the subterranean food web, supporting a complex ecosystem that thrives in the absence of sunlight. Their diverse roles in the kitchen and the ecosystem at large underscore the resilience and adaptability of life in this harsh and unforgiving environment.
Spiders:
If any creature was designed for the distinct environment of the Underdark, spiders may be that creature. They are versatile and formidable predators and employ very similar hunting strategies to their relatives on the surface. The Underdark actually only makes those methods more effective, but not all Underdark spiders use the same methods. One method of general classification is to separate Underdark spiders between “hairy” and “smooth” spiders.
Hairy spiders, often referred to as “Deepweavers” are massive creatures, some of which can occupy entire caverns with their intricate, thick webs. Their formidable size and sturdy exoskeleton make them intimidating to even some of the more fearsome residents of the Underdark. Their hairs serve multiple purposes, from sensing vibrations in their webs, to aiding in mobility along the cave walls. These spiders typically rely less on venom and more on their overwhelming size and web-making skills to immobilize and capture prey. When cooked, their meat is thick and hearty, often compared to a robust cut of red meat. A popular preparation method involves roasting their massive legs over burning coals until the outer shell crisps up. Once roasted, the hard exoskeleton is cracked open to reveal succulent, smoky flesh on the inside.
On the other end of the spectrum are smooth spiders, commonly known as “Venomdancers”. These spiders are generally smaller and specialize in stealth and agility. They incapacitate their prey using potent venoms, which have an array of effects ranging from paralysis to intense hallucinations. Venomdancer meat is leaner than that of the Deepweavers, and carries a subtle gamey flavor. Smaller spiders are often roasted in entire batches, and then eaten carapace and all.
Over time, inhabitants of the Underdark have found ways to ferment the toxins of Venomdancers into various psychedelic substances. It’s a risky business that took much trial and error, but if there is one thing that is true among all cultures, terranean and subterranean, it is the unwavering desire to get “zonked out of your gourd”. Besides, most of the trial and error in the Underdark wasn’t done on those developing the concoctions, and was instead done on less “willing” test subjects. When properly prepared, these substances can offer intense, mind-altering experiences with relatively consistent results and safety for the users.
It is worth noting that followers of Lolth completely abstain from consuming the meat of any spiders, revering them as sacred icons that reflect the image of their Goddess. While they do not eat spiders, they are known to still farm venom for both combat uses, and fermentation into psychedelics. Many Drow priestesses use one such substance for religious rituals known as “Lolth’s Whisper”. They believe the fermented venom can facilitate communion with the Spider Goddess herself, opening channels of foresight and divine wisdom. It is highly revered and restricted to use by only the highest ranking members of the priestess caste.
Lithovores:
The Underdark is a realm rich in minerals, from veins of precious metals, to massive formations of quartz and other crystalline structures. While these resources are often sought after for their economic value, they also serve as a unique and surprising nourishment for a variety of specialized organisms known as lithovores, or mineral-eaters.
These creatures have developed to extract nutrients directly from the rocky environment around them. Often resembling crustaceans, or segmented worms, these lithovores possess complex, acidic digestive systems capable of breaking down solid rock and absorbing the trace minerals contained within. Their exoskeletons are often reinforced with the very minerals they consume, providing them with natural armor that blends seamlessly into their surroundings.
Lithovores serve multiple functions within the Underdark ecosystem. First and foremost, they act as natural excavators, tunneling through the rock to create new passages and chambers. Over time, the waste products of their digestion can accumulate to form fertile grounds for the growth of fungi. These in turn support more complex food chains within the dark depths.
Culinary uses for lithovores are few, but inventive. Their mineral-hardened carapaces make them difficult to cook in traditional manners, but those with the knowledge and right tools can crack open these natural fortresses to get to the soft flesh within. The meat is often gritty, but is considered delectable by some Underdark dwellers, especially Svirfneblin, or Deep Gnomes. They are rich in essential minerals not commonly found in other food sources and when ground into a fine powder, the carapace itself can serve as a potent, if unusual seasoning.
Besides their role in the food chain, lithovores are valuable for other reasons. Alchemists and potion-makers are known to study these creatures for their mineral-absorbing properties, seeking ways to replicate the process for purifying or transforming other substances. Moreover, the tunneling activity of lithovores sometimes exposes veins of valuable minerals and creates passages to yet undiscovered chambers, making them of great interest to miners and adventurers.
Fish:
Thriving in underground rivers, lakes and reservoirs that crisscross the labyrinthine caverns, some fish have adapted remarkably well to a life in total darkness. Lacking the pigmentation commonly seen in their surface-dwelling cousins, many are either pitch-black, mirroring their surroundings, or translucent, revealing their internal organs in a ghostly display.
These fish are natural marvels, having developed a range of specialized adaptations to survive in their extreme habitat. Many possess heightened senses of small and touch, as well as lateral lines more sensitive than those found in surface fish, allowing them to detect even the faintest vibrations in the water. Some have even evolved bio-luminescent features, which they use either to communicate with each other, or to lure in unsuspecting prey, creating a surreal, glowing panorama in the dark waters they inhabit. These displays have been known to lure even the most seasoned adventurers from the surface to their death, as a single step into the dark waters can end with them being dragged deep, or eviscerated by a swarm of sharp teeth.
Omnivores by necessity, these fish consume everything from algae and microscopic organisms to water bugs and smaller fish. Their own predators include cave-dwelling reptiles, Underdark denizens who have mastered the art of subterranean fishing, and of course, bigger fish.
The following are a few examples of subterranean fish, but many more can be found in my companion manual “There is always a bigger fish: An exploration of fish around the realms”.
Gloomscale are medium-sized, translucent fish with patches of bio-luminescent scales that flicker in various colors. They feed primarily on algae and microscopic organisms. When cooked they have a sweet, nutty flavor.
Darkfin-Eels are long, serpentine and pitch-black, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. Their size ranges from 1 to 3 meters and they are ambush predators that rely on their acute sense of vibration to locate prey. This eels is a delicacy among Underdark inhabitants and they are often smoked or grilled over hot stones.
Shadowcarp are bulky, dark-colored fish that dwell at the bottom of subterranean lakes and rivers. Shadowcarp are omnivores and will eat anything from smaller fish to decaying organic matter. They are typically slow-cooked in a stew, flavored with various Underdark herbs and fungi.
Crystalgaze Minnows are named for their large, translucent eyes. These small fish are able to detect the faintest of light sources and even the glow of certain types of fungi, which they primarily consume. They are often dried and eaten as a snack or ground into a powder to season other dishes.
Abyssal Anglers are large predatory fish equipped with a luminescent lure dangling from its forehead, which it uses to attract both prey and mates. It is especially adept at hunting Crystalgaze Minnows, using its lure to make them assume it is a patch of fungi. Its meat is tough and requires long, slow cooking, but it's highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Bat Colonies:
Bat colonies in the Underdark provide a unique element to the complex ecosystem of this subterranean realm. Unlike their surface counterparts, Underdark bats have evolved to adapt to the pitch-black, nutrient-scarce environment. One notable species is the "Shadow-wing," a small, dark-colored bat adept at echolocation. These bats usually feed on insects and swarm in large colonies. Their guano is highly sought-after as a fertilizer for fungi farmers.
The "Vampire Drifter" bats are significantly larger and feed on the blood of other mammals and reptiles. They secrete a paralyzing venom, harvested by locals for medicinal and poisonous concoctions. Another fascinating species is the "Glowbat," with bio-luminescent patches on their wings and abdomen. The light they produce serves multiple purposes, including mating displays and attracting prey. Glowbat bio-luminescent glands are often harvested to serve as a natural source of light in the gloomy Underdark settings, and sometimes the bat itself is domesticated to serve as a mobile light source. Certain Deep Gnome colonies are known for the raising and training of Glowbats to assist them in their mining and foraging.
In stark contrast, the "Mistwraith" bats have translucent wings and an almost ghost-like presence, reputed to feed on the very life force of other creatures. Their rare appearance is often seen as an omen of misfortune. The "Soulchirp" bats, named for their haunting, melodious calls, feed on fungi and are believed to assist in inoculation by spreading spores. The music of their calls resonates through the caverns and has even inspired various Underdark musical compositions.
Cooking methods for bats in the Underdark are as diverse as the species themselves. Shadow-wing bats are often skewered and slow-roasted over hot embers, their small size making them ideal for individual servings. The meat is tender and commonly marinated in a mixture of cave seasonings and lizard oil for added flavor. Vampire Drifter bats, due to their larger size, are often smoked in specially constructed underground ovens, their paralyzing venom neutralized through the cooking process. The bat's wings are considered a delicacy and are often crisped to perfection, served as a crunchy appetizer. Glowbat glands are carefully removed before cooking and saved for their luminescent properties. The bat meat itself is usually ground and used in stews, sausages, and meatballs, offering a unique, tangy flavor profile. Meanwhile, Mistwraith and Soulchirp bats are generally avoided as food sources due to their eerie nature and the superstitions surrounding them. However, in times of scarcity, these bats might be boiled in large cauldrons to make a fortifying, if somewhat unsettling, broth. Regardless of the species, bat meat in the Underdark is a resourceful use of available fauna.
Eggs:
Egg clutches in the Underdark provide another unique food source, cherished for their high nutritional content and versatility. These eggs can come from a variety of subterranean creatures—lizards, bats, and even some species of giant insects and spiders. Unlike surface eggs, these tend to have tougher shells and membranes, adapted to the harsher conditions of the Underdark. Crystal Scale lizard eggs are particularly prized, their shells embedded with mineral-like scales that add a crunchy texture when ground into powder and used as a seasoning.
The cooking methods for these subterranean eggs range from boiling in mineral-rich waters to baking in hot, sulfurous sands. One popular preparation is "Deep Omelette," a dish that incorporates chopped cave mushrooms, algae, and whatever other ingredients can be sourced, all mixed together and cooked with the eggs. While many on the surface would consider the technique rather crude, it is a simple way to make a nutrient rich meal. On special occasions, eggs might be soft-boiled and then soaked in a vat of fermented worm juices, creating a potent and rich delicacy enjoyed by many.
For communities such as the Drow or Duergar, egg clutches are often hoarded and stored in communal larders. Here, they are carefully nurtured in temperature-controlled alcoves, sometimes imbued with magical properties for preservation. Eggs are also a great candidate for long term food preservation, either by pickling them and storing them in jars, or by packing them in earthenware with mineral sand, and letting them ferment underground over time until their shells completely dissolve and they become jelly-like. It can be worth trawling through the dirt of a deserted settlement to see if they have stored any “sand eggs” in the ground before they were wiped out.
Raiding:
It is impossible to fully discuss the food sources of the Underdark without mentioning the prevalence of surface raiding. While I have listed a large number of edible options so far, the stark truth is that life is few and far between under the surface, and finding reliable sources of food is just much more difficult than it is above the surface. This leads to many Underdark denizens either supplementing their normal hunting and cultivation with raiding, or just fully relying on it.
Although trade between the surface and Underdark would be ideal for all parties, it is often fraught with complications. Mistrust, hostility, and the sheer difficulty of negotiating through the treacherous terrain often make peace trade relationships rare. As a result, raiding becomes a much more common, albeit perilous, way of acquiring essential resources.
I will not go into depth on all of the various foodstuffs and items that are raided, because realistically, Underdark raiders will take anything they can get their hands on. I do want to spotlight one commodity that is of high priority in the Underdark however, that can only be obtained by raiding: honey.
The importance of this golden liquid cannot be overstated for Underdark residents and it is an absolute luxury for those that can either pay the price, or command strong enough forces to acquire it from the surface. Since sugar cannot be grown in the harsh subterranean environment, honey offers a unique and indispensable source of sweetness. While there is some sugar content in certain starchy roots and tubers, they pale in comparison. Furthermore, honey doesn't spoil, making it ideal for long-term storage. This is a massive concern for Underdark denizens who commonly will be uprooted from their homes due to military conflict, monster attacks, or necessity of moving to chase resources. Not only does it not spoil, honey can be used in the preservation of other foodstuffs as well, extending the shelf-life of other valuable ingredients. Finally, honey has many healing properties that make it valuable for medicinal applications in various balms and salves.
The acquisition of honey often involves meticulously planned and perilous expeditions to the surface. Parties of Drow, Duergar or other Underdark warriors and thieves emerge under the cover of darkness to either infiltrate beehives, or just attack merchants en route from the beekeepers. It is worth noting that most parties will actively avoid conflict with beekeepers themselves, and make sure not to damage hives, as destruction of a good set of beehives will require locating new ones. It is better to skim off the top than destroy the source, but of course, the ideal strategy is not always maintained.
Once acquired, the honey is then carefully transported back to the Underdark, where it is hoarded like treasure and rationed carefully. In certain societies, possession of honey can even confer a kind of social status, and it's not uncommon for the ruling classes to have jars of ancient, magically-infused honey that serve both culinary and ritualistic purposes.
Given its value, it's no surprise that honey is often a focal point in the intricate political and economic webs of the Underdark. It serves as a potent reminder that, despite their self-sufficiency and adaptability, the creatures of the Underdark are still tied in complex ways to the world above. Raiding for honey and other resources represents not just an act of survival, but also one of defiance against the harsh constraints of their subterranean home.
Monsters
Of course, many monsters are not just edible, but very very tasty. In addition to the Carrion Crawler discussed in this writeup, I have discussed some other monsters you can find in the Underdark in previous writings, such as the Cave Fisher, the Darkmantle, and the Basilisk.
Part 2 - Culinary Traditions:
Stay tuned for the release of part 2 of this discussion of the Underdark, where we will talk about how different groups and communities prepare the edible options they have access to.