Whitlacoche - A Basis In Mexican Cuisine

Video: Whitlacoche - A Basis In Mexican Cuisine

Video: Whitlacoche - A Basis In Mexican Cuisine
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Whitlacoche - A Basis In Mexican Cuisine
Whitlacoche - A Basis In Mexican Cuisine
Anonim

There are over 100,000 species of fungi in nature that have been discovered by scientists. Some of them, such as mushrooms, halibut and roe deer, have been known to Europeans for centuries, while others, which are also edible, remain shrouded in secrecy.

A typical example of this is the sponge whitish, which is most valued in Mexico. Along with other mushrooms that live as parasites on trees and shrubs, this type of mushroom attaches to corn, which has also become emblematic of Mexican cuisine.

It is not clear when the strange whitish fungus began to become indispensable for Mexicans. According to some scientists, it has been known since the cultivation of corn in Mexico.

The first evidence of this dates back to 5,000 BC, which is really impressive. Even then, corn, especially in today's southern Mexico, was closely associated not only with the livelihood of the population, but also with religious holidays.

Corn was a staple food for the Maya and Aztecs, and it was even believed that God created mankind from corn dough. It was through Mexico, through the Spanish conquerors, that corn penetrated Europe and is today one of the most cultivated crops. And for Mexico, it comes first.

Whitlacoche mushroom
Whitlacoche mushroom

Just as corn is more prized than gold by Mexicans, so the strange whitling mushroom is ingrained in their daily lives.

It is known that this mysterious mushroom, growing on the head of corn, was known and appreciated since the pre-Columbian era. The reason for this lies not only in its mysterious appearance and taste, but also in the fact that it is very rich in protein.

Whitlakoche mushroom can be prepared in the same way as all other mushrooms - soup, stew, as an additive to rice and others. In Mexico, it is widely used even in the preparation of traditional quesadillas, tacos and sauces.

You can also prepare your own whitling mushrooms at home, as long as you can get them. And this is not easy at all. You need to have acquaintances in Mexico, as in other countries it is a rare phenomenon.

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