Huitlacoche: The Corn Smut That's Actually Delicious
So, You Want to Get Your Hands on Some Huitlacoche?
You're not alone. This funky, earthy fungus is having a moment. Once considered a blight on corn crops, huitlacoche (pronounced "wee-tla-CO-chay") has transformed into a culinary darling, often called the "Mexican truffle." And if you're in Los Angeles, you're in luck, because this city is a treasure trove of unique flavors, including this corn-loving mold.
Where to Find This Black Gold in the City of Angels
Your Local Mercado
Let's start with the obvious: your nearest Mexican market. These are the unsung heroes of the culinary world, stocking ingredients you won't find anywhere else. While it might not always be fresh, you're likely to find canned or frozen huitlacoche. Think of it like searching for gold in a dusty mine - you might strike it rich.
Upscale Mexican Restaurants
If you're feeling fancy, head to a high-end Mexican restaurant. Chefs are increasingly incorporating huitlacoche into their menus, showcasing its versatility and deliciousness. You might find it in a creamy soup, a bold taco, or even as a pizza topping.
Farmers' Markets
For the freshest huitlacoche, hit up your local farmers' market. You might need to do some digging (or rather, browsing), but you never know what culinary gems you'll discover. Just be prepared to pay a premium for this seasonal delicacy.
Online Ordering
If all else fails, there's always the internet. Several online retailers specialize in Mexican ingredients, and they often carry huitlacoche. It's a convenient option, but you might miss out on the thrill of the hunt.
Tips for Using Huitlacoche
Huitlacoche has a unique, earthy flavor that's similar to mushrooms. It's often used in dishes like quesadillas, enchiladas, and soups. Here are a few tips:
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Huitlacoche is incredibly versatile. Try it in unexpected dishes like risotto or scrambled eggs.
- Cook it thoroughly: While huitlacoche is safe to eat raw, cooking it brings out its flavor and aroma.
- Balance the flavors: Huitlacoche has a strong taste, so pair it with complementary flavors like corn, cheese, and chili.
And remember, if you can't find fresh huitlacoche, don't despair. Canned and frozen varieties are still delicious and can be a great starting point for your culinary adventures.
How To... Huitlacoche FAQs
- How to cook huitlacoche? Sauté it in butter or olive oil until softened, then add to your favorite dish.
- How to store huitlacoche? Store fresh huitlacoche in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. Frozen and canned varieties can be stored according to the package instructions.
- How to substitute huitlacoche? If you can't find huitlacoche, you can try using mushrooms, especially morel or portobello mushrooms, as a substitute.
- How to pronounce huitlacoche? It's pronounced "wee-tla-CO-chay."
- How to grow huitlacoche? Unfortunately, growing huitlacoche is not practical for home gardeners. It's a fungus that naturally infects corn, and it's difficult to cultivate.
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about finding and enjoying huitlacoche. Now go forth and conquer the world of corn smut!