Cuitlacoche, also known as huitlacoche or corn smut, is a delicacy that has a fascinating history and a unique flavour profile. Prized since the days of the Aztecs, this Mexican culinary treasure presents itself as an inky gray-black, bulbous growth on ears of corn. Outside of Mexico, corn smut is treated as a disease on the plant, but for us, it is a treasure. Although it may not look appealing at first glance, once cooked, cuitlacoche transforms any dish into an amazing experience. Its earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet corny flavour adds depth and complexity to a variety of dishes, making it a prized ingredient in Mexican cuisine.
I realize for most people outside of Mexico, with the exception of some places in the States, cuitlacoche is not available (unless you know a chef who knows a farmer who grows corn and happens to have corn smut on his crop!) so if this is the case, use this recipe but substitute mushrooms - after all, cuitlacoche is a type of mushroom!
This preparation can be used for making tacos, but it can also be used as a filling for empanadas (the fried masa kind), quesadillas or as a filling for sopes or gorditas.
TACOS DE CUITLACOCHE
Corn Smut Tacos
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
1 serrano or Jalapeño chile, minced (or more to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 Roma tomato, diced (about 3/4 cup)
Salt to taste
300g fresh cuitlacoche, cleaned
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Tortillas
Salsa of your choice
Pickled onions for garnish (optional)
In medium skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and serrano or Jalapeño chile and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook until aromatic, 1-2 minutes.
Add tomato and cook until it softens and starts to break down. Season with salt to taste.
When tomatoes are soft, add cuitlacoche and cook for a few minutes, until softened and it releases its liquid.
Add cilantro and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning and serve.
Makes tacos, top with cilantro leaves and salsa. If you have some pickled onions, they make a great garnish.
Serves 4 as an appetizer.