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Useful Gift Ideas for Friends, Family, or Maybe Yourself :]

Cheers to 2020. Cheers to good views, to good people, to good food, to good sleep, to good health, to good times, & to good faith.

What are you cheers-ing to for the New Year? ⁣Consider snagging one of these special gifts for yourself, a friend, a coworker, or a loved one. 



About Carmen
I'm a kombucha-sipping, salt & vinegar chips-snacking traveler. The last TV 3 shows I watched were The Simpsons, The Good Place, & YOU. The last 3 places I visited were Querétaro, Mexico; Oceanside, California; & Barcelona, Spain. As a San Diego lifestyle blogger, influencer, social media professional (or whatever you want to call me), I've built a consistent readership & have the pleasure of working with different brands I respect. Follow me on Instagram.

* Disclaimer: This post contains PR gifts. This post contains affiliate links. Find out what exactly this means. Learn more about my disclosure.

The 6-Minute Diary UrBestSelf
UrBestSelf's The 6-Minute Diary & a Lisa Frank 5-color pen.

The 6-Minute Diary

Meet your new accountability partner, The 6-Minute Diary. This gratitude diary gives you time to yourself to write: 3-minutes in the morning & 3-minutes in the evening. Created by UrBestSelf, The 6-Minute Diary aims to help your mindfulness, happiness, & productivity with quotes, prompts, questions, & space to write out your thoughts each day. This is a fantastic gift for someone who likes books, journaling, or writing. Click here to buy The 6-Minute Diary on Amazon.

Books by Modern Female Authors

There are some remarkable women authors out there with unique stories & are-you-talking-directly-to-me? voices. Read anything by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, such as Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun,  or Americanah. If you know someone who loves a good chuckle, buy Sarah Cooper's satirical book How to Be Successful without Hurting Men's Feelings. Take a look at my list of suggestions for modern female authors!

The faux sheepskin rug looks chic in any photo & it's soft for practical use.

Faux Sheepskin Rug

I've had this chic faux sheepskin rug for a couple of years & it holds up to this day. It's incredibly soft & fluffy. I bought it to use for my flat lay blog photos but I bust it out just for ~*~aesthetic vibes~*~ sometimes. This is an excellent gift for someone who likes interior design or taking photos. This is a fantastic gift for a blogger, writer, photographer, or someone who wants a cute soft white rug. I mean, why not? Click here to buy the faux sheepskin rug on Amazon.

Relax with a magazine & the cooling Gold Charcoal HydroGel Eye Patches by Everydaze.


Gold Charcoal HydroGel Eye Patch

I ripped apart the brown shipping box of Everydaze products from ChicExecs. The black & gold box of the Gold Charcoal HydroGel Eye Patch called my name. "Caaarmen," it beckoned. "Open me."  I immediately applied the charcoal eyepatch. I'm a sucker for charcoal. It all started in 2017 when I tried charcoal ice cream for the first time. The patches cool & soothe your undereye area. Click here to buy the Gold Charcoal HydroGel Eye Patch on Amazon.

Acupressure Mat

The acupressure mat & pillow set are great to use after a workout, if you have a sore spot, or to release some tension. This is a fantastic gift for people who exercise frequently or suffer from back pain/issues. The bed of needles on the acupressure mat helps to release cramped muscles & relieve stress. Simply sit or lie down on the mat. Find out more information in my blog post about how to use an acupressure mat & pillow for stress, tension, & pain relief.


The Rooted Co. CBD Tincture

If you haven't hopped on the CBD train quite yet, CBD can potentially lower your anxiety,  inflammation, & stress. CBD might reduce pain, increase mental clarity, or promote a night of more restful sleep. The Rooted Co. CBD tincture is THC-free, so you won't get any mental fog or high. This product is water-soluble meaning you can pop some in your beverage & sip throughout the day rather than just have a dropper of it directly to your tongue. Find out more about The Rooted Co.'s CBD Tincture.

Bright Eyes Cream by Yangu Beauty

The Bright Eyes Cream leaves your delicate skin area feeling hydrated. Yangu Beauty sources its ingredients from Africa; its products are free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, & other popular skin irritants. The company is perfect for women of color or people with sensitive skin. You can find out more about Yangu beauty on their website or you can buy their products on Amazon.

Essential C’s Konjac Jelly in Peach Everydaze
Essential C’s Konjac Jelly peach collagen pouches by Everydaze - cute & delicious!

Essential C’s Konjac Jelly in Peach

Everydaze, a Korean brand, also has Essential C’s Konjac Jelly Peach pouches, which are absolutely delicious. I'd go so far as to say they're incredible. Made with konjac, simply slurp up the peachy textured jelly bits & melt into the scrumptiousness. Essential C’s Konjac Jelly Peach is meant to be a low-calorie snack with a good source of collagen & vitamin C. This is a fantastic gift for someone who likes health products, trying new foods, or experimenting with collagen products. This is an excellent gift for vegans since it's vegan-friendly! So yummy & adorable packaging. Click here to buy Essential C’s Konjac Jelly Peach on Amazon.

My box of Sitka Salmon Shares!

Sitka Salmon Shares

Sitka Salmon Shares' wild-caught seafood from Alaska is the perfect gift for foodies or for that person whom a gift card to a restaurant chain simply won't do. This is an excellent gift for someone who likes quality ingredients & the best things in life, some of the best frozen salmon you'll find. Sitka Salmon Shares focuses on sustainable harvesting methods to minimize negative ecological impact. It's conveniently delivered right to your door, so you don't have to shop around or drive to the store. Click here to buy salmon fish online with Sitka Salmon Shares.

The best Electric milk frother
An electric milk frother or a handheld drink frother is the perfect gift for a white elephant gift exchange.

Beverage Frother

Beverage frothers are incredibly useful. Froth your almond milk, coffee, hot chocolate, cappuccino, or collagen drink in no time & with little effort. There are different types of beverage & milk frothers out there, but mine is this trusty $7 frother. This is a fantastic gift for anyone who enjoys a morning coffee or fancy matcha; you'll use this every day!

What are you cheers-ing to for the New Year? Since I'm new to seafood, would you mind sharing what's the best frozen salmon you've tried? What's the best white elephant gift you ever received? 

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What I'm Watching, Reading, & Listening to: True Crime Podcasts, Anthony Bourdain, & Aladdin

Despite an influx of social media consulting clients, I still had time to watch a whole slew of television series, listen to a ridiculous amount of true crime murder podcasts, & read the occasional book. I recently reached the 2-year mark of being fully self-employed as a blogging coach, travel influencer/writer, & social media manager for small brands & businesses! I work remotely, so I spend a lot of time in coffee shops, libraries, coworking places, & anywhere with Wi-Fi.

Here's everything I'm watching, reading, & listening to lately!

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click &/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or my social media platforms, I may make a small commission from that click &/or purchase. It's at no additional cost to you! Learn more about my disclosure.

What I'm Watching, Reading, & Listening to: True Crime Podcasts, Anthony Bourdain, & Aladdin
Reading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain & probably listening to a true-crime podcast.

TV Shows I'm Watching (& One Movie)


Aladdin

Hell yes, I went to see the new Aladdin film with Will Smith in theatres. It was incredible. I was singing along the way & can appreciate some of the updates they made to the characters & plotline to align with modern times. My favorite is the "Prince Ali" song! Did you see the new Aladdin? Do you like the original with Robin Williams or the new one? 

Rick and Morty

I'm years late to the Rick and Morty party but this inappropriate animated comedy is made for adults. It's the  If you're curious where to watch Ricky and Morty online, you can find seasons 1-3 on Hulu.

The Act

Being the true crime fan that I am, I promptly watched The Act once I heard it was coming out. I'd already seen the documentary, Mommy Dead and Dearest. The series revolves around the story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard & Dee Blanchard — murder, lies, Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. The Act stars Patricia Arquette, Joey King, AnnaSophia Robb, & Chloë Sevigny.

Game of Thrones

I can't be the only person who completely binge-watched Game of Thrones in a three-month span. Who's with me? Man oh man, although this extremely popular show premiered in 2011, I only began watching in 2019. Spoiler-free commentary from one of my Facebook friends, "I liked the ending but the pacing of the last season was so much faster than the others that it felt off."

The Golden Girls

Sometimes you just need a wholesome show to relax after a long day of work. After spending all day listening to true crime podcasts, it's optimal for my brain (& dreams/night terrors) to listen to four mature ladies from the 80s talk about life. The Golden Girls is refreshing & holds up well after all these years.

Hey Arnold!

I actually watched Hey Arnold! a lot as a cute little kiddo. It was on Nickelodeon & are used to watch at my grandma's house. All those were the days when responsibilities were little just like myself. I watched whatever is available on Hulu but you can also watch Hey Arnold! The Ultimate Collection.

Pretty Little Liars

Pretty Little Liars is the updated version of Gossip Girl, except gnarlier, darker, & deadlier. The show revolves around a bunch of high schoolers & their web of lies. It was something to put on while typing or writing.

GLOW

GLOW stars Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin, Marc Maron, among others, & follows a group of ladies as they dabble in the world of wrestling; the show takes place in the 1980s & was inspired by GLOW: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, a series which ran from 1986-1989.

The Handmaid’s Tale

Other than actual true crime, The Handmaid's Tale is it one of the most horrifying TV shows out there right now. It’s based off a best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood. Set in the modern USA, the show takes place in the totalitarian society of Gilead, where are women are seen as property, oppressed, & forced to carry children for high-ranking officials.

Books I'm Reading


Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain

I read the updated edition of Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly. Anthony's voice seeps off the pages of Kitchen Confidential. It feels like you're watching him on The Food Network, his voice shines through, almost blindingly. The book reads like a diary entry from the year 2000 before Bourdain became the badass culinary iconic we know him as.

You Are a Badass Every Day by Jen Sincero

Technically the full title reads You Are a Badass Every Day: How to Keep Your Motivation Strong, Your Vibe High, and Your Quest for Transformation Unstoppable. Use Sincero's You Are a Badass Every Day as your daily dose of inspiration, affirmations, & strategies to stay empowered to feel your most badass.

Podcasts I'm Listening To

Crime Junkie

Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat host Crime Junkie, one of the most popular true crime podcasts out there. They use sound in the podcast to relay an eerie vibe, much like film scores for soundtracks to dramatic movies. It certainly makes me feel more on edge. Crime Junkie recently made headlines due to plagiarism allegations.

Criminal

"This is Phoebe Judge." Listen to any episode of this podcast & you'll know exactly what I’m talking about; the host, Phoebe Judge has a unique voice, which I always associate with the classic journalism/newscaster persona. Criminal is heavily researched so you know you’re getting the facts & the latest information available on a case.

Morbid

Morbid falls under what I consider soap opera/gossipy/personal true crime shows, as does My Favorite Murder (listed below). Morbid, hosted by Ash & Alaina, has a sassy dynamic banter. It turns out the ladies are actually related. Can't lie, it took me about 20 episodes to determine who was speaking because I couldn't tell them apart! P.S. Alaina is an autopsy technician, so she brings real-life perspective to...death. 

My Favorite Murder

My Favorite Murder might be the original true-crime podcast don’t quote me on that one though. This popular podcast sets itself apart because it's considered a true crime comedy podcast. Hosts Georgia Hardstark & Karen Kilgariff aim to give you a couple of chuckles even though they’re talking about pretty heavy stuff. The ladies released their book Stay Sexy & Don't Get Murdered: The Definitive How-To Guide in mid-2019.

To Live and Die in LA

To Live and Die in LA podcast follows the disappearance of actor Adea Shabani. Rolling Stone journalist Neil Strauss investigates the mystery, unraveling one thread at a time until the whole thing comes apart. Unlike the other true crime podcasts in my list, this podcast covers one case the whole way through, allowing Strauss to decipher what happened. Prepare to be enthralled.

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Content and Blog Post Ideas

Blogging is tough, y'all. There's always a curveball or a challenge or a commitment or an obstacle to keep you on your toes. There are highs & lows. There are so many moving parts. Whether you want to reach new clients or increase your blog page views, it's easy to lose blogging inspiration & fall behind on your social media goals. It's hard to create successful blogs these days!

Sometimes you feel stuck or overwhelmed with how much you need to do. You ask yourself: "How can get there? How can I get unstuck when I feel stuck?"

Take 30 minutes to go through this exercise & by the end of it, you'll identify some creative blog topics you can start writing immediately. As a social media / blog coach, I go over this topic a lot with my clients. Let's get those blogging content inspiration juices flowing. Are you ready? My clients have successful blogs, brands, & social media channels.

Blogging coach, blog coach, blog inspiration

Step 1. Ask yourself: What excites & inspires me? 


Write it down. Grab a pen & paper. Type it on your phone or laptop. Time yourself for 5 minutes; time management is important. Write down words or phrases as they come to you, stream of consciousness style. Don't overthink it. Write it down, you can refine it later. Aim for 20.

EXAMPLE: 
1. Food
2. Travel
3. Nature
4. Craft beer
5. Netflix
6. Friends
7. Hot sauce 
8. Blogging 
9. Photography 
10. Dogs
11. Poetry
12. Journaling
13. Writing 
14. Reading magazines 
15. Learning
16. Earl Grey tea
17. Thrift shopping
18. Kombucha
19. Farmers markets
20. Meditating

Step 2. Expand!


You have your initial list of things that excite & inspire you. Now we're going to get more detailed about each blogging inspiration point. Go through each word or phrase you wrote down & expand on it. Every. Single. One. Of. Them. Aim to expand by 5. Again, stream of consciousness style. There's no right or wrong way to do this. You just want to get pen to paper. At the end of this step you should have a hodgepodge list of things that you're drawn to, captivated by, interested in, or simply enjoy.

EXAMPLE: 
1. Food ---> Vegetarian food. Persian food. Trying food from different cultures. Dark chocolate. Pickle chips.  

 2. Travel ---> Seeing new places. Learning about other cultures. Trying new food! Challenging myself (like that time I spent the night on a couch at London Gatwick Airport). 

 3. Nature ---> Botanical gardens. Nature walks. State parks or nature reserves. Seeing animals like butterflies, birds, rabbits, deer. Finding peace outside.

 4. Craft beer ---> San Diego craft beer breweries. Happy hour craft beer. Hazy IPAs. Tijuana tasting rooms

Step 3. Circle the words or phrases that you're especially interested in


Take a look at your list & circle words or phrases you're especially interested in. What calls to you? What are you truly inspired by? As a human being, what are your current interests? This exercise is an excellent way to get to know yourself (again) & find blogging inspiration content ideas.

Step 4. Ask yourself: How can I incorporate these topics on my blog? How can I incorporate these things into my daily life or even my work?


Time yourself for 5 minutes. Work from your circled list & ask yourself how you can incorporate the topics on your creative blog as well as how you can add them into your daily life. The more you expose yourself to things that excite & inspire you, the more likely you'll have plenty of blogging inspiration to give you content blog ideas. Identify your current likes & write about it. Always stream of consciousness style, it doesn't have to be fancy.

EXAMPLE: 
1. Persian food. 

 How can I incorporate this topic on my creative blog? ---> 
- Write about my childhood & growing up Persian
- Experiment with classic Persian Iranian recipes 
- Storytell about the Persian parts of my life: evening Farsi classes, celebrating Nowruz
- Talk about the joys of rose water


 How can I incorporate this topic into my daily life or even my work? ---> 
- Eat at local Persian restaurants in the San Diego area.
- Buy an Iranian cookbook to try new-to-me recipes.
- Practice Farsi on DuoLingo
- Check out a book on Persian poetry from the library

Complete this exercise in its entirety & you'll find blogging inspiration to give you creative blog topics & blog ideas for months to come. Never forget that success is a series of small wins, sometimes it's almost unnoticeable. Use your time wisely; read time management tips for bloggers for my best tips. As a blog coach, my clients with successful blogs ask for inspiration tips quite often.





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Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem

San Diego is an enormous county. In fact, it's around 4,500 mi.². I just Googled that. I definitely didn't know that off the top of my head. In North County San Diego alone, there's  Del Mar, Escondido, Oceanside, Solana Beach, & more cities. Looking for best things to do in Encinitas? Drive Coast Highway 101 or head to Swami's Beach, Moonlight State Beach, San Diego Botanic Garden, or Encinitas Historical Society. There's a lot you can do. Keep reading!

I enjoy international travel as much as the next person. I visited Spain, Germany, Mexico, & Norway, which proved more than ever that small moments matter, no matter where you are. You have to supplement those getaways with something budget-friendly, something local. At the end of the day, I'm a San Diego lifestyle blogger at heart! There's always something exciting to do in San Diego. 

You might also want to read my blog post Encinitas Coffee Shops: Searching for the Best Coffee in Town where I list all the coffee shops in Encinitas all in one place.

Things to Do in Encinitas CA - North County, San Diego


Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See: Things to Do in Oceanside, California


Whether you like coffee drinks or walks by the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, California. Read this guide for Encinitas points of interest whether you're a North County San Diego local or an out-of-town visitor!



8 Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem

8 Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem
Hanging out at the Moonlight Beach overlook with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean


Head to Encinitas Beaches

Encinitas is a beachside town with miles of trails, there are a lot of beaches in this part of North County San Diego! Moonlight State Beach is one of my favorite places to relax, it even has a snack bar. Play volleyball with your friends or dip your toes in the water. Moonlight Beach is beautiful & I've seen some of the best sunsets of my life there. Want other beach options? Check out Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach, or Swami's State Beach. Again, heaps of beaches & best things to do in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach is a personal favorite of mine, snack bar is cool, but bathrooms can get messy. You can surf or just stare at the ocean! You'll find one of the best views in Encinitas!

Related reading: Carlsbad Coffee Shops - Searching for the Best Coffee in Carlsbad, California

What is Encinitas famous for? How much does it cost to live in Encinitas?

Go Downtown

The bustling streets of Encinitas await. Watch a film at La Paloma Theater, which opened in 1928. Moonlight Beach is right there too. There are even things to do in Encinitas with kids. Go to any beach! Moonlight Beach or the tide pools. Stroll along the coast & you'll realize why Encinitas is such a great place. It's popular for a reason. 

Grab a cup of coffee

The city of Encinitas has no shortage of coffee shops. Head to Pannikin Coffee & Tea for a coffee & a muffin. Their muffins are enormous & perfect for sharing. I love the Aztec Mocha from Lofty Coffee Co.; it has a spicy kick thanks to the cayenne. There's also Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, Ironsmith Coffee Roasters, Coffee Coffee, Philz Coffee, & a few other spots.


8 Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem
In awe of the view from the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple

Spend Time in a Garden

The Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple is one of my favorite spots in North County San Diego because it has some remarkable views. Relax in the peaceful Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens. Stare at the majestic koi swimming in their ponds. Look out at the vast Pacific Ocean. It's free to enter but donations are welcome. If you want to spend some time in nature with over 4,000 types of plants, visit the San Diego Botanic Garden. The Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens are certainly worth a visit if you're in Encinitas CA, Southern California!

Support Local & Buy Souvenirs

Stroll Downtown Encinitas Main Street for all the cool retail stores & businesses. Caravan West is a bohemian paradise with baskets, blankets, books, & more. Check out Moon Shadow Boutique for bohemian fashion & vintage home accessories. Crystals, hair salons, home decor, kids boutiques, men's clothing, stationery, swimwear, women's clothing, there are local Encinitas, Southern California options for any gift or souvenir need. Downtown Encinitas has a lot of spunky shops!


8 Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem
A coffee & giant muffin from Pannikin Coffee & Tea is one of my favorite things to do in Encinitas


Drive Historic Highway 101

Spend the day along Highway 101 driving along the beach. Go on a drive after spending time at the San Diego Botanic Garden or at the meditation gardens. Drive North County. U.S. Highway 101 runs through the states of California, Oregon, & Washington. Highway 101 is the longest highway in California. Drive down a piece of history in Encinitas. Downtown Encinitas Main Street is conveniently located on Highway 101; park your car then shop some of the local boutiques & stores.

Eat Delicious Food at Encinitas Restaurants

Spend a day at the beach savoring the waves then head to a place to eat. Get a burrito or tacos or anything - you're in a beach city after all. Surf by day then visit a taco shop for a great meal. Go to the nature center or Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas.

Fresh fish, tasty vegetarian food, gluten-free options, raw & organic desserts, Downtown Encinitas has restaurants food for all your needs! My other personal favorite restaurants in the city of Encinitas: pastries from St. Tropez Bakery & Bistro ♥ hot & prepared foods from Lazy Acres Natural Market ♥ Machacha Breakfast Burrito from Mozy Cafe (two eggs, jack cheese, & soy chorizo instead of turkey) ♥ organic, fresh options from GOODONYA like the Breakfast Veggie Bowl ♥ EVE Encinitas for all things vegan ♥ Home & Away Encinitas has affordable food & a beautiful space with hand-painted art

Drink Craft Beer at Encinitas Breweries

San Diego County has over 150+ breweries; it's one of the best place to find beer, so it's no surprise that the city of Encinitas has a few craft beer options.  Saint Archer Brewing Co. has happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday through Friday - get $2 off a pint. Enjoy plant-based food & a full food menu (in addition to a full craft beer list, obviously). Sip on Thorn Brewing Co. at Home & Away Encinitas. Modern Times Far West Lounge. Culture Brewing Co. always features artists on their walls, so they're kind of like an art gallery with beer. North County has dozens of beer options.

How About Cocktails?

Sip on a sexy cocktail at any number of cool Downtown Encinitas CA spots. In addition to a full food & craft beer menu, Bread & Barley has a number of signature cocktails (like the Leucadia Sunrise made with vodka, lemon, lavender, elderflower, cucumber), brunch cocktails, & classics. The Roxy is another classic go-to on Encinitas Main Street. Home & Away Encinitas has some tasty cocktails. Solterra Winery and Kitchen for wine!

From La Paloma Theater to the farmers market, Encinitas is open to the public with plenty to offer. What are your favorite things to do in Encinitas? Do you like Moonlight Beach & Highway 101? Would you go surfing? Have you been to Self Realization Fellowship gardens?

Other places to visit in San Diego: La Jolla, Solana Beach, San Elijo Lagoon, anywhere on El Camino Real. Diego, California is a large county & it would take a long time to explore the whole place but you can have fun trying. Enjoy your visit & experience the best has to offer.

Did I miss something? Leave a comment with your 3 favorite things to do in Encinitas.

8 Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem

Have you visited Encinitas CA or North County San Diego? Do you like to explore your own city? :]
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What Is Huitlacoche? What Does Corn Smut Taste Like?

Mexico has a vast range of positively scrumptious food. Authentic Mexican food is next level. A bean & cheese burrito or store-bought taco doesn't quite articulate the multitude of flavor & variety Mexican food has. And then we also have drinks, which is a subject of its own. Don't get me started on horchatas.

Okay, you're searching the internet trying to figure out what the heck is huitlacoche? How do you even use it? Is it edible or do you have to throw it away? Is it safe to eat huitlacoche (corn smut edible)? I've done all the research for you so you can get all the answers right here. Keep scrolling interesting keep reading.

What is huitlacoche in English? 

In the United States, American farmers often call it corn smut fungus.

What Is Huitlacoche? What Does It Taste Like? Corn Smut Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat?

What is huitlacoche (corn smut / ustilago maydis)?

Corn smut is a plant fungus caused by Ustilago maydis. Huitlacoche is basically a corn mushroom or corn truffle that grows on the infected corn kernels on corn plants. You might know it as corn smut or common smut. While most farmers in the United States would consider this fungal plant disease an infection worthy of eradication, fungus corn smut is considered a delicacy in Mexico, more commonly referred to as "huitlacoche." You might even hear it referred to as cuitlacoche, corn truffles, Mexican truffle, Mexican huitlacoche, maizteca mushrooms, corn mushrooms, & bunch of other terms.

Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat?

If you're left wondering: well, is this fungus safe to eat? Yes! The corn fungus caused by ustilago maydis can be found on ears of corn is considered a maize mushroom or type of edible mushroom. Yes, it's safe to eat. It's actually a Mexican delicacy. Taste a piece of Mexico. Not only is it safe to eat but there are plenty of ways that you can eat it & make it - from huitlacoche quesadillas to soups to tamales. You can eat it in a lot of savory and smoky dishes with some salt and pepper.

Can You Eat It While Pregnant? 

I'm not a doctor so I am no clue about that; make sure to check with your own doctor based on your own health conditions. Definitely worth asking your doctor before ordering some at a restaurant. Just to be on the safe side!

How Is Huitlacoche Pronounced? 

That's a great question because it's somewhat difficult when you first look at it. You can pronounce it weet-la-ko-che (the 'che' should sound like 'che' in 'checkers.') If you want to be super authentic then you can pronounce it more like "hwee-tla-ko-che."


What Is Huitlacoche? What Does It Taste Like? Corn Smut Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat?


Huitlacoche Taste - What does fresh huitlacoche smell like, taste like, look like?

Don't forget this corn growth is a culinary delicacy. The plant fungus grows on corn kernels. The infected kernels change color & shape. The name corn smut fungus doesn't sound so appetizing, so I love referring to its name in its mother tongue. I first tried huitlacoche back in 2016; I even mentioned it in my July A - Z monthly recap & my July Favorites. Mexican cuisine is delicious; I always eat something new & foods can vary by state & by cities. My boyfriend's mom made a fresh batch. Fred's parents are from Central Mexico.  I've been able to taste some delicious Mexican food homemade by Fred's mom, including some regional specialties from their hometown. 

I ate it by itself, as a side. It's earthy but not as stinky as mushrooms. It tastes like corn, even though it is a plant fungus. The spongy texture is a bit mushy, just like cooked corn. There might be an occasional fiber from the corn. It looks dark, like a blackish, brownish color, due to the corn fungus kind of the same color as a crimini mushroom or Portobello mushroom. If you enjoy mushrooms or kind of earthier foods with that type of texture, you will probably agree with the taste of huitlacoche corn smuts. You can find  huitlaoche recipes online to cook it yourself.

How do you eat huitlacoche?

You can use this smut delicacy many ways. There are plenty of recipes. It's a versatile ingredient. You don't eat it off the cob as you would regular ears of corn. I loooove quesadillas de huitlacoche. The ingredients you'll are need organic corn tortilla, cheese, huitlacoche, that's it. You can use flour or corn tortillas. Delicious. If quesadillas aren't your thing, you can use huitlacoche Mexican truffle in your soup or burrito. You can make a huitlacoche taco or sopes. Basically, you can add huitlacoche as a filler or side, the same way you'd integrate something like black beans or mushrooms. Just check some recipes online. You can eat it with a tortilla or as a side dish on its own. You can add it to various types of dishes such as soups, tamales, huitlacoche tacos, whatever your heart desires. 

You can add onion, garlic, corn, cheese, tomatoes, tortilla, epazote leaves. These are common ingredients that go together with huitlacoche. Huitlacoche dishes to add some delicious earthy flavor and texture to the meal.

What Is Huitlacoche? What Does It Taste Like? Corn Smut

What's the nutritional value of huitlacoche?

High Protein
As cuitlacoche grows, fresh huitlacoche is higher in protein than most maize or regular corn, & could be considered as an alternative protein source for vegetarians (or anyone), according to a research study published in Food Science and Technology (Sociedade Brasileira de Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos).

High in Minerals like Magnesium & Phosphorus
The study also shows that huitlacoche is high in minerals magnesium & phosphorus. Higher magnesium intake may reduce the risk of stroke, diabetes, & osteoporosis (National Institutes of Health). So load up on that huitlacoche! 

High in Fatty Acids like Oleic Acid & Linoleic Acid
Huitlacoche is high in fatty acids like oleic acid & linoleic acid. Due to the plant fungus & how it alters the corn, huitlacoche is loaded with nutrients corn doesn't normally have, such as lysine, an essential amino acid.

High Carbohydrate
At the end of the day, huitlacoche is still corn, so it has a high carbohydrate content. The great news is that huitlacoche has a high cellulose content (a type of carbohydrate), which can be beneficial for digestion. Sounds like a win to me!

Low Fat 
Huitlacoche is low in fat, which makes it a great choice for anyone looking for lower calorie & lower fat foods.

Where Can I Find it

You're likely to find it at a Mexican restaurant but there are some canned huitlacoche varieties as well. I haven't tried canned, only fresh huitlacoche, so I can't say from experience. Fresh is usually always best. You can even had to a Mexican market to see if they have it or know someone who grows it. Know any farmers? Ask them. Farmers might be a good place to start.

So what do you think? Did I convince you to try it? Technically it's a corn fungus but that shouldn't stop you from trying something you could potentially really enjoy. I've had plenty of times & each of the restaurants makes it their own unique way. The seasoning might be different or the flavors or the texture but it's the same main ingredient no matter what. If you're traveling to Mexico, you might find it does frequently in a quesadilla, Sometimes a quesadilla trio with floor de Calabasas (squash blossoms) huitlacoche, & then whatever other option they have.

Would you eat huitlacoche or quesadillas de huitlacoche? It's essentially a corn truffle. Yes, it's a corn fungus but it sure is tasty! What is your favorite food item from Mexico? Have you? How do you like to eat it? Leave a comment below if you have any questions! :]

Hopefully, this answers all your questions. Just wait until you try huitlacoche quesadillas. If it doesn't, leave the question below & I'll see what I can do. Happy eating. I hope you order it the next time you see it on the menu now that you know exactly what it is, where it comes from,  & potentially what it'll taste like.

Things to do in Mexico

Things to Do in Roma Mexico City Neighborhood, read here. 
The Xcaret Underground River Experience: Things to Do in Xcaret.


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Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat? What is Huitlacoche? What Does It Taste Like?

What is Huitlacoche? What Does It Taste Like? Is Huitlacoche Safe to Eat? Corn Smut
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Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves: How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower? Where to Buy?

This fragrant green plant is the perfect addition to your next shower, as a DIY aromatherapy. What is eucalyptus in the shower good for? Any healing or health properties or is that hoo-ah? What are the benefits or therapeutic properties of eucalyptus? What does eucalyptus smell like? How to keep eucalyptus fresh? It can be used in a number of ways. Get ready to learn more about eucalyptus oil, leaves, & more.

Eucalyptus in Shower

You may have read some information about the addition of eucalyptus in shower online and now you're in search of tips. The trees are native to Australia, but did you know there are actually many species of eucalyptus plants? You might see the large tree in a public garden or park. If you head to your local farmers market & ask for some, the leaves might look different. The long leaves are classified as eucalyptus globulus but you might often see the short stubbier leaved version. You can get a lot of use out of one bunch of leaves. Whether you're super crafty or just want to have a refreshing shower, this post will cover everything. Breathe easy. Grab a cuppa tea & start scrolling!

Hang Eucalyptus in Your Shower

Using eucalyptus branches can become a part of your daily routine. Hang one bunch of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower to freshen up your bathroom. Get one hair tie, rubber band, twine. Simply tie it with a string or rubber band near your showerhead. The eucalyptus leaf has such a strong, cleansing smell. The hot water hits the leaves to create a eucalyptus steam, kind of like an all-natural shower diffuser based from eucalyptus plant oil. Eucalyptus in the shower can be useful for some anti-stress, energizing, decongesting properties. If you have nasal congestion, this might be a good plant to try.

When hanging eucalyptus in your shower up, the oils from the leaves give off an incredible scent that may potentially last for weeks & up to two months - so you can get a lot of use out of one branch. Wondering how long does fresh eucalyptus plan last in the shower? Scroll down for the answer. 

Where to Buy Eucalyptus Plant

What to have a spa like experience of your own? Try to find it at your local farmers' market; that's where the scent is the best! If you can't find it there, you can also buy eucalyptus leaves on Amazon or find an oil. Get the leaves from a range of online shops. The price may vary.

You can get Dried Real Eucalyptus Branches 12 Stems, Natural Eucalyptus Plant Leaves for Arrangement Wedding Home Decor on Amazon. 

There's also: Freshly Handpicked & 100% Natural leaves that you can buy on Amazon. | Relieves Stress & Anxiety - Perfect for Self Care. 

It's not the same as fresh eucalyptus leaf but using it could be worth a try! Can't find leaves - try an oil instead. Hanging eucalyptus in your shower feels like a stress-free spa like experience with a sense of style and calm. If you can't find eucalyptus plants near you, you can always opt for eucalyptus-based products in the meantime. The price may vary depending on where you buy it.

You could get eucalyptus scented candles instead. There are a lot of eucalyptus scented candles available online on Amazon.


How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower? What is eucalyptus good for? how long does eucalyptus last eucalyptus in shower eucalyptus leaves eucalyptus for shower eucalyptus leaves shower how long does eucalyptus last in the shower


Where Can I Buy Eucalyptus Leaves?

Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, but you can find the leaves online or maybe in your local store. I'm based in Southern California, so I find my favorite eucalyptus bouquet at my local farmers market, flower shop, or grocery store. I've seen eucalyptus fresh leaves at Trader Joe's, Vons, & some grocery stores by the flower section. Get some at the grocery store or you might be able to find it at craft stores too! Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. 

How to keep eucalyptus fresh? 

Care Tip: Shake off the leaves after every shower to avoid gnats or rotting. Preserve eucalyptus stems with this tip. The green fresh eucalyptus bunch leaves can be flat & hold a lot of water. Get the most from your leaves.  Shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture! Hey yaaa! After you turn off the water, shake as much water from the hanging leaves as you can.  Get as much off as possible. Then you're ready to go. The eucalyptus leaf keeps the water if you don't shake it off & it takes hours to dry (if it dries at all). 

How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower?

How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? Well, how frequently do you use it? Is your family of 6 using one shower 8 times per day? If that's the case, it's better to count the number of uses the leaves got, rather than the days. It ultimately depends how frequently you shower & how you care for the bundle of leaves. If the eucalyptus shower gets used multiple times a day, it may last two to three weeks or so. We had our hanging eucalyptus branches for two to three weeks, went on a 3-week trip, & came back to the most fragrant, fantastic scent of eucalyptus wafting through the bathroom. We used it for one more week before heading to the farmers market for a new bundle. If you use your shower a lot, the leaves won't last as long in terms of days. Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. 

How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower? What is eucalyptus good for? how long does eucalyptus last eucalyptus in shower eucalyptus leaves eucalyptus for shower eucalyptus leaves shower how long does eucalyptus last in the shower

Can I Use Eucalyptus Oil Instead?

Of course! You may use whatever you have on hand. I dabbled with oil eucalyptus for several years. It all started in 2014 with my very first bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. I prefer the fresh leaves because the scent is much more potent than the essential oils. But the eucalyptus essential oil is convenient & travel-friendly since you may take a small bottle with you wherever you go.  Click here for my favorite eucalyptus essential oil (*affiliate link). Eucalyptus oil still has benefits too! You can also buy real eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. The oil of eucalyptus is a good alternative if you can't find the fresh version. It's important to be careful when applying eucalyptus oil to your skin. 

What Does Eucalyptus Leaves Smell Like?

What does eucalyptus smell like? Hmm good question. The eucalyptus smell is potent. has a potent, in-your-face smell kind of like spearmint or pine. The oil itself might smell different than the leaf but overall it's natural, earthy, & menthol-y. It might be considered similar to camphor or cedar. Think something along those lines as far as the smell. However, the fresh version will be milder than the oil version. 

What Can You Do With Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves? 


You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.

So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences. 

It's Pretty

Last but certainly not least, hanging eucalyptus bundles to your shower head is aesthetically pleasing. It looks beautiful hanging in the shower. The green leaves ad a touch of natural ambiance and aromatherapy to your bathroom. If you want to add a touch of freshness into your bathroom, this is a relatively simple way to do so. You could opt for preserved eucalyptus instead. If you want the leaves to last even longer, get creative. Add eucalyptus stems to a jar or vase in your bathroom rather than hanging it up in the shower. It won't really have I scent but it's worth a shot for the vibes. If you're crafty, you can make projects with the leftover dried leaves. What would you make? If you found this post, it's a sign.

How have you seen people use eucalyptus leaves in the shower or to your shower head? Is it something you'd be willing to try out or are you just dabbling for now? I love the way it looks hanging in my bathroom & the way it smells & the way it makes me feel rejuvenated. It feels like this topic is so popular right now. Every influencer has some leaves in their shower or somebody talked about it in a magazine. This is something I've been doing for years now & it's part of my daily routine. My friends know I do it. I've converted friends into it trying out. So finally I decided to write about it! I hope this brought you value.

Do you use eucalyptus leaves or oils eucalyptus in the shower? If you prefer the oil, how do you like to use it? Leave a comment! Tell me about your experience. Feel free to ask a question! What are some of the eucalyptus benefits you've found? Any other ways it can be used? Add a luxurious touch of natural aromatherapy to your next shower.

About Me

Hi, thanks for making it all the way down here. I'm Carmen, a writer & social media manager based in San Diego, California. I like to travel, eat tostadas, & drink hot Earl Grey tea whenever possible. Learn more about my Press + Media page to see the brands & companies I've worked with in the past. I've created content for a range of travel, lifestyle, & food brands.

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
Your Guide to Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves in the Shower - how long does it last? how long does eucalyptus last eucalyptus in shower eucalyptus leaves eucalyptus for shower eucalyptus leaves shower how long does eucalyptus last in the shower
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