Termite mushroom from Yunnan province [Photo/kunming.cn]

Termite mushroom only grows in the red earth of the southwestern and southeastern parts of China. It is usually found springing out of the top of termite hills during the rainy season from July to September.

Termite mushrooms contain protein, fat, amino acids and a variety of vitamins. The mushroom also contains large amounts of phosphorus. Fresh termite mushrooms taste like chicken meat, according to some, and are easy to preserve. The fungi can be fried or salted to allow people to enjoy it throughout the year.

Edited by Jacob Hooson