Huitlacoche found

Went to Guelagetza for lunch Saturday and was handed their new menu. Lots more items than before. Instead of ordering my usual things I took the time to peruse the entire menu. I was astounded to find an Empanada de Chuitlacoche. The waiter told me that they get if fresh Wednesdays at the Santa Monica Farmer's Market. It was great, earthy, smokey and altogether complex. All that for 7 bucks. Gotta love it.

I, too, am curious as to which Guelaguetza you went to. The one on Palms Blvd., the one on 8th St., or the one on Olympic Blvd. Quesadillas de huitlacoche are offered from time to time as a special at the 8th St. location, but the last time I was there, the empanada de huitlacoche wasn't on the regular menu.

Years ago, I found huitlacoche at the Santa Monica farmer's market, but it was a one-time event. Then again, I'm usually not free to go to the Wednesday market. I've found sources for canned and frozen huitlacoche, but fresh huitlacoche is much harder to come by. If it's now available locally, that's wonderful news. I'm curious, though, as to whether or not the growth of the corn fungus is seasonal (and hence not available year round). Anybody know? When I've asked about the source of huitlacoche at restaurants in Mexico that offer it as a regular menu item, I'm told that it is canned.

I was at the one on Palms. It is on the printed/laminated book-style menu, no as a special. He assures me that it is fresh and comes from the Santa Monica Farmers Market. He inferred that it is available Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Which Guelaguetza did you hit? I went to the 8th Street one a month ago and did not see any huitlacoche on the menu.

What is it?

A succulent black fungus which grows on corn. Often served in quesadillas.

had some outrageous meals in oaxaca a long time, too long ago, with huitalcoche - i need to go back. like now.

Where can I purchase Huitlacoche in the LA area?

This place is right down the street from me, but I've never tried it. Can you recommend some dishes?

Try the Clayuda (kinda like a tostada) of cecina, a mole negro tamale, birria de chivo taco, horchata with cactus juice (a beverage). That should get you started. And of course the chuitlacoche quesadilla.