Termitomyces, or mushrooms that grow on termite mounds, are a rare delicacy found in the tropical regions of Vietnam, particularly in the provinces of Ben Tre, Tien Giang, and Binh Phuoc.
These mushrooms typically appear after the first rains of the season, from May to August. They are characterized by their slender, ivory-colored stems and pale gray caps that turn opaque as they mature, growing to an average height of 4-15 cm depending on the variety.
According to research by the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Termitomyces mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse. They contain 5-7% protein and are rich in iron, calcium, vitamin D, and potent antioxidants. Additionally, studies have highlighted their potential in inhibiting cancer cell growth, regulating blood sugar levels, and boosting immunity, making them especially beneficial for the elderly.
From Rural Delicacy to Gourmet Specialty
Prior to 2010, Termitomyces mushrooms were largely a rural delicacy, commonly prepared in simple dishes such as braised in peppercorns, stir-fried with lá cách (a type of herb), or made into porridge. Locals in Ben Tre used to say, “We consider these mushrooms a gift from heaven, to be shared equally among neighbors, not sold.”
Termitomyces mushrooms grow exclusively on termite mounds.
However, as word spread about their unique crunchy texture, natural sweetness, and delicate aroma, these mushrooms began to gain wider recognition. Video reviews and studies highlighting their medicinal properties further piqued people’s interest.
As a result, the price of Termitomyces mushrooms skyrocketed from approximately 50,000 VND/kg to 500,000 VND/kg within a few years. Finding a kilogram of these mushrooms in one’s garden was likened to winning the lottery. Groups began forming to search for these mushrooms in the middle of the night.
Interestingly, the price of these mushrooms varies across regions, with higher prices in the south. In July 2024, the price of Termitomyces mushrooms in Hue was around 370,000 VND/kg, while in Da Nang, they fetched 500,000 VND/kg. In the Southeast region, prices reached up to 500,000 VND/kg.
The highest prices were recorded in the Mekong Delta provinces, with Ben Tre taking the lead. Here, the mushrooms known as nấm dù (mushrooms with open caps) sold for 600,000-800,000 VND/kg, while the prized nấm búp (mushrooms with small, closed caps) commanded a price of 1.5 million VND/kg. Connoisseurs believe that the Ben Tre variety is superior in taste and texture.
A Rare and Precious Delicacy
What makes Termitomyces mushrooms so rare and precious is their unique life cycle: each termite mound produces mushrooms only once a year. As these mushrooms depend on a symbiotic relationship with the termites, artificial cultivation has proven challenging.
Termitomyces mushrooms can be prepared in a variety of delicious dishes, such as braised in peppercorns, stir-fried with garlic butter, with bottle gourd, with chicken or beef, or made into porridge.
Adding to their elusiveness, Termitomyces mushrooms can only be harvested between 3 and 5 am. They often grow hidden under layers of leaves, requiring experienced foragers to locate them. Once the sun rises, the termites emerge and begin to bore into the mushroom stems. If left for a day, the mushrooms will open up, reducing their quality and market value.
Harvesters must use their hands to pluck the mushrooms, as the use of metal tools can alert the termites, causing them to abandon the mound and preventing mushroom growth in subsequent years.
Furthermore, Termitomyces mushrooms have become increasingly popular in high-end restaurants, where they are used in creative dishes such as grilled mushrooms wrapped in wild betel leaves, mushroom hot pot, and even mushroom pizza. This growing demand in the culinary world has further driven up prices.
