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El Trompo tacos are fungi
277 Augusta Avenue
Phone: 416-260-0097
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- Posted by Staff
- September 14, 2006
Right so, if I saw that pic I wouldn't want to eat that thing either. Or actually I would, because I love to eat anything weird. But maybe you wouldn't, in which case you would be missing out. What we have here is a huitlacoche taco from El Trompo in Kensington Market, a bare bones little taco joint that's been on Augusta Avenue for about three years. Huitlacoche goes by various names including Ustilago maydis and corn truffle, all fancy ways of saying "this is a fungus that grew on corn." It's black, as you can see. I learned about it on a food bulletin board last week and when I noticed it on the menu at El Trompo I knew it was a must.
El Trompo is definitely one of my budget faves (dinner for three was about $45). They have traditional Mexican drinks, like sour tamarindo and rice-pudding-in-a-glass horchata. The guacamole is smooth and unctuous, though I wish the tortilla chips were fresh. Usually I get the al pastor tacos, which are shredded pork with a squeeze of fresh lime. Tangy, juicy, good. The chorizo sausage is great, too, as are the smooth refried beans. Although the Mexican scene in Toronto isn't fabulous, El Trompo offers a satisfying taco fix.
But today we were here for the huitlacoche, so the huitlacoche is what I ordered. I have to admit, I didn't realize it would be so...creamy. Creamy and black. An odd combination. The taste is, truly, unlike anything I've had before. Very earthy--sort of like a dried shiitake beaten into a pulp and then crossed with corn. Not a very strong flavour. In fact, almost overpowered by the cheese. Overall, I would say intriguing, but I still don't know what exactly all the fuss is about--it was neither fantastic nor weird enough to brag about. I think I am going to have to get a can of these and try one on its own.
El Trompo
277 Augusta Avenue, 416-260-0097
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How's the guacamole? Do they offer soy cheese as an option?