Huitlacoche (corn smut)

Ustilago maydis

mushroom

A black, swollen fungus that invades corn kernels, tasting of smoked mushroom and corn, in quesadillas and soups.

Origin

Mexico

Season (United States)

July to September

Preparation

The swollen kernels are cut off the cob with a knife and cooked for about ten minutes in a pan, with onion; it is eaten cooked.

Molecules

Mushroom beta-glucansIn small amounts, not counted Ergothioneine

Did you know?

In the United States it is treated as a disease; in Mexico, an infected ear sells for more than a healthy one.