Huitlacoche (Corn Smut)

What Is Huitlacoche?

Huitlacoche is a swollen, irregular growth ranging in color from silvery gray to black, caused by a fungus (Ustilago maydis) that infects corn kernels. It has been intentionally eaten in Mexico for centuries under the names “cuitlacoche” and “huitlacoche.”

Although it is considered an undesirable disease-causing agent in most agricultural crops, it is prized as a gourmet ingredient in Mexican cuisine; its flavor is earthy and smoky, with a depth of umami between mushroom and corn. For this reason, it is sometimes called “corn truffle.”

Huitlacoche Nutrition

One hundred grams of raw huitlacoche contains approximately 90 kcal of energy and moderate amounts of protein and fiber. Values are approximate.

How Should Huitlacoche Be Consumed?

Huitlacoche can be considered part of a balanced diet as a low-to-moderate-calorie vegetable and mushroom hybrid; it is always eaten cooked.

This information is general; huitlacoche is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Huitlacoche

Good huitlacoche is freshly harvested, plump and swollen in texture, and silvery-black in color. Avoid specimens that are dry and shriveled or have an off odor.

• The texture should be plump and swollen
• The color should range from silvery gray to black
• It should smell fresh and mushroom-like, not spoiled

How to Store Huitlacoche

Huitlacoche should be eaten within 2–3 days when refrigerated; it is a highly perishable product. Canned huitlacoche can be stored longer.

Using Huitlacoche in the Kitchen

Huitlacoche is often sautéed with onion, garlic, and epazote, then used as a filling for quesadillas and tamales or added to soups; it is a traditional ingredient in Mexican “antojitos” (snacks).

Is Huitlacoche Harmful or Edible?

It is edible and not poisonous; although it is an unwanted infection in agriculture that reduces corn yields, it is a prized culinary product that is safe to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does huitlacoche come from fresh corn?

Yes. The fungus develops among the kernels of fresh corn while the ear is maturing; it is harvested while the corn is still fresh and milky.

Is huitlacoche available canned?

Yes. Where fresh huitlacoche is unavailable, canned huitlacoche can be found especially in stores that sell Mexican products.

Can you find huitlacoche in Türkiye?

It is generally unavailable; the fresh form is almost never imported, and the canned form is only rarely available at specialty gourmet-food stores.