Huitlacoche is the result of sick corn, but it is possible to take advantage of this circumstance. We will Ustilago maydisthe fungus that causes this condition in the plant, is responsible for these malformations in the ear, which, when well prepared, are considered a delicacy.
Huitlacoche is a fungus in the Ustilaginaceae family that grows among corn kernels. It originates and is used in the cuisine of Mexico, where there is an ancestral culture of planting corn and is considered a delicacy, or food of the gods, while in other corn-producing countries, on the contrary, it is considered a pest.
The curious thing is that this fungus does not kill the plant, as it needs it for the propagation of its spores.
the sick corn
This fungus parasitizes corn plants (Zea Mays), producing tumors of up to 10 cm in the inflorescences. First it is white and then it turns black, so it is called “charcoal”, which is the color given by the resistance spores, the teliospores, once formed. It creates sori on stems, leaves and inflorescences (male and female) as pustules or irregular spots of considerable size, initially covered by a smooth, thin, grayish membrane, which later turns brown and ruptures releasing the spore mass.
Common corn coal caused by ustilago maydis, is easily identified by the tumor-like galls that form on actively growing tissues. These contain a dark, powdery mass of teliospores (char spores). Young galls are considered edible.
At the moment Ustilago maydis has been studied to find out which types or varieties of corn can get better yields and therefore higher sales. In addition to the temperature and humidity conditions necessary for it to develop properly.
Quesadillas recipe with this “black gold”
Ingredients
- corn pancakes
- Cheese
- Ustilago Maidys (Huitlacoche or Cuitlacoche)
- Onion
- Green pepper
- red jalapenos
- Oregano
- Oil
- salt
elaboration
We select and wash the Ustilago, We put it in a sieve to dry well.
Meanwhile, cut the onion and pepper into julienne strips, place in a frying pan with a little oil to fry, when soft add the Ustilago cut into pieces, cook for a few minutes and add the jalapeños and fresh oregano, mix well and set aside.
Presentation
We heat the grilled corn pancakes, put the cheese and a little of the stuffing that we have reserved, when the cheese starts to melt we turn and continue to brown. We serve it hot.
Each one will know how to draw their own conclusions about this possibility that corn offers us when colonized by the Ustilago.