Matsutake

Best eaten: Grilled or steamed
You can call this a “magic” mushroom. The matsutake mushroom grows only in autumn and only on roots of pine trees, and costs up to US$1,000 (S$1,390) per kilogram for the highest grade at the beginning of the season. This rare and expensive shroom is very popular and coveted for its earthy flavour, meaty texture and rich umami. When cooked, it gives off a pleasant, woody pine scent. It is the star ingredient in a special autumnal soup with clear dashi broth, but it can also be savoured grilled, steamed with rice or cooked in chawanmushi.