Terfezia and Tirmania, Desert Truffles (terfez, kama, p/faqa)
Delicacies in the sand or manna from Heaven?
by Elinoar Shavit and Tom VolkI found this to be one of the most interesting articles I've read in a long time. First off, I didn't even realize there were such fungi in deserts and arid lands. These mycorrhizal fungi species grow in association with particular plants and their spores are mostly spread through the feces of the animals that eat them. While reading the previously mentioned section, I thought of the impact the inter-regional trade of the truffles must have had to their geographical coverage.
The article speaks briefly about Bedouin medicinal applications of the truffles, as well as other preparation and consumption methods. Those interested in mythology or Abrahamic religions should also find sections highly interesting.