Termite mushroom

Termitomyces spp.

mushroom

Large mushrooms that emerge from termite mounds in the rainy season, among the most sought after in Africa and Asia.

Origin

Tropical Africa and Asia

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The earthy base of the very long stem is cut off, then it is washed and cut into pieces; it cooks for about ten minutes. If you pick it yourself, have the mushroom checked by a pharmacist or a mycological society before eating it.

Molecules

Mushroom beta-glucansIn small amounts, not counted Ergothioneine

Did you know?

Termites farm it in their nest like a vegetable garden, on chewed wood.