What Is Huitlacoche? What Does Corn Smut Taste Like?
Mexico has a vast range of positively scrumptious food. Authentic Mexican food is next level. A bean & cheese burrito or store-bought taco doesn't quite articulate the multitude of flavor & variety Mexican food has. And then we also have drinks, which is a subject of its own. Don't get me started on horchatas.
Okay, you're searching the internet trying to figure out what the heck is huitlacoche? How do you even use it? Is it edible or do you have to throw it away? Is it safe to eat huitlacoche (corn smut edible)? I've done all the research for you so you can get all the answers right here. Keep scrolling interesting keep reading.
What is huitlacoche in English?
In the United States, American farmers often call it corn smut fungus.
What is huitlacoche (corn smut / ustilago maydis)?
Corn smut is a plant fungus caused by Ustilago maydis. Huitlacoche is basically a corn mushroom or corn truffle that grows on the infected corn kernels on corn plants. You might know it as corn smut or common smut. While most farmers in the United States would consider this fungal plant disease an infection worthy of eradication, fungus corn smut is considered a delicacy in Mexico, more commonly referred to as "huitlacoche." You might even hear it referred to as cuitlacoche, corn truffles, Mexican truffle, Mexican huitlacoche, maizteca mushrooms, corn mushrooms, & bunch of other terms.
Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat?
If you're left wondering: well, is this fungus safe to eat? Yes! The corn fungus caused by ustilago maydis can be found on ears of corn is considered a maize mushroom or type of edible mushroom. Yes, it's safe to eat. It's actually a Mexican delicacy. Taste a piece of Mexico. Not only is it safe to eat but there are plenty of ways that you can eat it & make it - from huitlacoche quesadillas to soups to tamales. You can eat it in a lot of savory and smoky dishes with some salt and pepper.
Can You Eat It While Pregnant?
I'm not a doctor so I am no clue about that; make sure to check with your own doctor based on your own health conditions. Definitely worth asking your doctor before ordering some at a restaurant. Just to be on the safe side!
How Is Huitlacoche Pronounced?
That's a great question because it's somewhat difficult when you first look at it. You can pronounce it weet-la-ko-che (the 'che' should sound like 'che' in 'checkers.') If you want to be super authentic then you can pronounce it more like "hwee-tla-ko-che."
Huitlacoche Taste - What does fresh huitlacoche smell like, taste like, look like?
Don't forget this corn growth is a culinary delicacy. The plant fungus grows on corn kernels. The infected kernels change color & shape. The name corn smut fungus doesn't sound so appetizing, so I love referring to its name in its mother tongue. I first tried huitlacoche back in 2016; I even mentioned it in my July A - Z monthly recap & my July Favorites. Mexican cuisine is delicious; I always eat something new & foods can vary by state & by cities. My boyfriend's mom made a fresh batch. Fred's parents are from Central Mexico. I've been able to taste some delicious Mexican food homemade by Fred's mom, including some regional specialties from their hometown.
I ate it by itself, as a side. It's earthy but not as stinky as mushrooms. It tastes like corn, even though it is a plant fungus. The spongy texture is a bit mushy, just like cooked corn. There might be an occasional fiber from the corn. It looks dark, like a blackish, brownish color, due to the corn fungus kind of the same color as a crimini mushroom or Portobello mushroom. If you enjoy mushrooms or kind of earthier foods with that type of texture, you will probably agree with the taste of huitlacoche corn smuts. You can find huitlaoche recipes online to cook it yourself.
How do you eat huitlacoche?
You can use this smut delicacy many ways. There are plenty of recipes. It's a versatile ingredient. You don't eat it off the cob as you would regular ears of corn. I loooove quesadillas de huitlacoche. The ingredients you'll are need organic corn tortilla, cheese, huitlacoche, that's it. You can use flour or corn tortillas. Delicious. If quesadillas aren't your thing, you can use huitlacoche Mexican truffle in your soup or burrito. You can make a huitlacoche taco or sopes. Basically, you can add huitlacoche as a filler or side, the same way you'd integrate something like black beans or mushrooms. Just check some recipes online. You can eat it with a tortilla or as a side dish on its own. You can add it to various types of dishes such as soups, tamales, huitlacoche tacos, whatever your heart desires.You can add onion, garlic, corn, cheese, tomatoes, tortilla, epazote leaves. These are common ingredients that go together with huitlacoche. Huitlacoche dishes to add some delicious earthy flavor and texture to the meal.
What's the nutritional value of huitlacoche?
High Protein
As cuitlacoche grows, fresh huitlacoche is higher in protein than most maize or regular corn, & could be considered as an alternative protein source for vegetarians (or anyone), according to a research study published in Food Science and Technology (Sociedade Brasileira de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos).
High in Minerals like Magnesium & Phosphorus
The study also shows that huitlacoche is high in minerals magnesium & phosphorus. Higher magnesium intake may reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, & osteoporosis (National Institutes of Health). So load up on that huitlacoche!
High in Fatty Acids like Oleic Acid & Linoleic Acid
Huitlacoche is high in fatty acids like oleic acid & linoleic acid. Due to the plant fungus & how it alters the corn, huitlacoche is loaded with nutrients corn doesn't normally have, such as lysine, an essential amino acid.
High Carbohydrate
At the end of the day, huitlacoche is still corn, so it has a high carbohydrate content. The great news is that huitlacoche has a high cellulose content (a type of carbohydrate), which can be beneficial for digestion. Sounds like a win to me!
Low Fat
Huitlacoche is low in fat, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking for lower calorie & lower fat foods.
As cuitlacoche grows, fresh huitlacoche is higher in protein than most maize or regular corn, & could be considered as an alternative protein source for vegetarians (or anyone), according to a research study published in Food Science and Technology (Sociedade Brasileira de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos).
High in Minerals like Magnesium & Phosphorus
The study also shows that huitlacoche is high in minerals magnesium & phosphorus. Higher magnesium intake may reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, & osteoporosis (National Institutes of Health). So load up on that huitlacoche!
High in Fatty Acids like Oleic Acid & Linoleic Acid
Huitlacoche is high in fatty acids like oleic acid & linoleic acid. Due to the plant fungus & how it alters the corn, huitlacoche is loaded with nutrients corn doesn't normally have, such as lysine, an essential amino acid.
High Carbohydrate
At the end of the day, huitlacoche is still corn, so it has a high carbohydrate content. The great news is that huitlacoche has a high cellulose content (a type of carbohydrate), which can be beneficial for digestion. Sounds like a win to me!
Low Fat
Huitlacoche is low in fat, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking for lower calorie & lower fat foods.
Where Can I Find it
You're likely to find it at a Mexican restaurant but there are some canned huitlacoche varieties as well. I haven't tried canned, only fresh huitlacoche, so I can't say from experience. Fresh is usually always best. You can even had to a Mexican market to see if they have it or know someone who grows it. Know any farmers? Ask them. Farmers might be a good place to start.
So what do you think? Did I convince you to try it? Technically it's a corn fungus but that shouldn't stop you from trying something you could potentially really enjoy. I've had plenty of times & each of the restaurants makes it their own unique way. The seasoning might be different or the flavors or the texture but it's the same main ingredient no matter what. If you're traveling to Mexico, you might find it does frequently in a quesadilla, Sometimes a quesadilla trio with floor de Calabasas (squash blossoms) huitlacoche, & then whatever other option they have.
Would you eat huitlacoche or quesadillas de huitlacoche? It's essentially a corn truffle. Yes, it's a corn fungus but it sure is tasty! What is your favorite food item from Mexico? Have you? How do you like to eat it? Leave a comment below if you have any questions! :]
Hopefully, this answers all your questions. Just wait until you try huitlacoche quesadillas. If it doesn't, leave the question below & I'll see what I can do. Happy eating. I hope you order it the next time you see it on the menu now that you know exactly what it is, where it comes from, & potentially what it'll taste like.
Things to do in Mexico
Things to Do in Roma Mexico City Neighborhood, read here.
The Xcaret Underground River Experience: Things to Do in Xcaret.
Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves: How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower? Where to Buy?
This fragrant green plant is the perfect addition to your next shower, as a DIY aromatherapy. What is eucalyptus in the shower good for? Any healing or health properties or is that hoo-ah? What are the benefits or therapeutic properties of eucalyptus? What does eucalyptus smell like? How to keep eucalyptus fresh? It can be used in a number of ways. Get ready to learn more about eucalyptus oil, leaves, & more.
Eucalyptus in Shower
You may have read some information about the addition of eucalyptus in shower online and now you're in search of tips. The trees are native to Australia, but did you know there are actually many species of eucalyptus plants? You might see the large tree in a public garden or park. If you head to your local farmers market & ask for some, the leaves might look different. The long leaves are classified as eucalyptus globulus but you might often see the short stubbier leaved version. You can get a lot of use out of one bunch of leaves. Whether you're super crafty or just want to have a refreshing shower, this post will cover everything. Breathe easy. Grab a cuppa tea & start scrolling!
Hang Eucalyptus in Your Shower
Using eucalyptus branches can become a part of your daily routine. Hang one bunch of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower to freshen up your bathroom. Get one hair tie, rubber band, twine. Simply tie it with a string or rubber band near your showerhead. The eucalyptus leaf has such a strong, cleansing smell. The hot water hits the leaves to create a eucalyptus steam, kind of like an all-natural shower diffuser based from eucalyptus plant oil. Eucalyptus in the shower can be useful for some anti-stress, energizing, decongesting properties. If you have nasal congestion, this might be a good plant to try.
When hanging eucalyptus in your shower up, the oils from the leaves give off an incredible scent that may potentially last for weeks & up to two months - so you can get a lot of use out of one branch. Wondering how long does fresh eucalyptus plan last in the shower? Scroll down for the answer.
Where to Buy Eucalyptus Plant
What to have a spa like experience of your own? Try to find it at your local farmers' market; that's where the scent is the best! If you can't find it there, you can also buy eucalyptus leaves on Amazon or find an oil. Get the leaves from a range of online shops. The price may vary.
You can get Dried Real Eucalyptus Branches 12 Stems, Natural Eucalyptus Plant Leaves for Arrangement Wedding Home Decor on Amazon.
There's also: Freshly Handpicked & 100% Natural leaves that you can buy on Amazon. | Relieves Stress & Anxiety - Perfect for Self Care.
It's not the same as fresh eucalyptus leaf but using it could be worth a try! Can't find leaves - try an oil instead. Hanging eucalyptus in your shower feels like a stress-free spa like experience with a sense of style and calm. If you can't find eucalyptus plants near you, you can always opt for eucalyptus-based products in the meantime. The price may vary depending on where you buy it.
You could get eucalyptus scented candles instead. There are a lot of eucalyptus scented candles available online on Amazon.
Where Can I Buy Eucalyptus Leaves?
Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, but you can find the leaves online or maybe in your local store. I'm based in Southern California, so I find my favorite eucalyptus bouquet at my local farmers market, flower shop, or grocery store. I've seen eucalyptus fresh leaves at Trader Joe's, Vons, & some grocery stores by the flower section. Get some at the grocery store or you might be able to find it at craft stores too! Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.
How to keep eucalyptus fresh?
Care Tip: Shake off the leaves after every shower to avoid gnats or rotting. Preserve eucalyptus stems with this tip. The green fresh eucalyptus bunch leaves can be flat & hold a lot of water. Get the most from your leaves. Shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture! Hey yaaa! After you turn off the water, shake as much water from the hanging leaves as you can. Get as much off as possible. Then you're ready to go. The eucalyptus leaf keeps the water if you don't shake it off & it takes hours to dry (if it dries at all).How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower?
How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? Well, how frequently do you use it? Is your family of 6 using one shower 8 times per day? If that's the case, it's better to count the number of uses the leaves got, rather than the days. It ultimately depends how frequently you shower & how you care for the bundle of leaves. If the eucalyptus shower gets used multiple times a day, it may last two to three weeks or so. We had our hanging eucalyptus branches for two to three weeks, went on a 3-week trip, & came back to the most fragrant, fantastic scent of eucalyptus wafting through the bathroom. We used it for one more week before heading to the farmers market for a new bundle. If you use your shower a lot, the leaves won't last as long in terms of days. Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.Can I Use Eucalyptus Oil Instead?
Of course! You may use whatever you have on hand. I dabbled with oil eucalyptus for several years. It all started in 2014 with my very first bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. I prefer the fresh leaves because the scent is much more potent than the essential oils. But the eucalyptus essential oil is convenient & travel-friendly since you may take a small bottle with you wherever you go. Click here for my favorite eucalyptus essential oil (*affiliate link). Eucalyptus oil still has benefits too! You can also buy real eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. The oil of eucalyptus is a good alternative if you can't find the fresh version. It's important to be careful when applying eucalyptus oil to your skin.What Does Eucalyptus Leaves Smell Like?
What does eucalyptus smell like? Hmm good question. The eucalyptus smell is potent. has a potent, in-your-face smell kind of like spearmint or pine. The oil itself might smell different than the leaf but overall it's natural, earthy, & menthol-y. It might be considered similar to camphor or cedar. Think something along those lines as far as the smell. However, the fresh version will be milder than the oil version.
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
What Can You Do With Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves?
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
It's Pretty
Last but certainly not least, hanging eucalyptus bundles to your shower head is aesthetically pleasing. It looks beautiful hanging in the shower. The green leaves ad a touch of natural ambiance and aromatherapy to your bathroom. If you want to add a touch of freshness into your bathroom, this is a relatively simple way to do so. You could opt for preserved eucalyptus instead. If you want the leaves to last even longer, get creative. Add eucalyptus stems to a jar or vase in your bathroom rather than hanging it up in the shower. It won't really have I scent but it's worth a shot for the vibes. If you're crafty, you can make projects with the leftover dried leaves. What would you make? If you found this post, it's a sign.
How have you seen people use eucalyptus leaves in the shower or to your shower head? Is it something you'd be willing to try out or are you just dabbling for now? I love the way it looks hanging in my bathroom & the way it smells & the way it makes me feel rejuvenated. It feels like this topic is so popular right now. Every influencer has some leaves in their shower or somebody talked about it in a magazine. This is something I've been doing for years now & it's part of my daily routine. My friends know I do it. I've converted friends into it trying out. So finally I decided to write about it! I hope this brought you value.
Do you use eucalyptus leaves or oils eucalyptus in the shower? If you prefer the oil, how do you like to use it? Leave a comment! Tell me about your experience. Feel free to ask a question! What are some of the eucalyptus benefits you've found? Any other ways it can be used? Add a luxurious touch of natural aromatherapy to your next shower.
About Me
Hi, thanks for making it all the way down here. I'm Carmen, a writer & social media manager based in San Diego, California. I like to travel, eat tostadas, & drink hot Earl Grey tea whenever possible. Learn more about my Press + Media page to see the brands & companies I've worked with in the past. I've created content for a range of travel, lifestyle, & food brands.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
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