The BRICS Summit 2026 gala dinner featured a selection of special Indian dishes, including the highly prized Gucchi mushroom. Also known as morel mushrooms, Gucchi is famous for its distinctive flavour, unique texture, nutritional value and exceptionally high price.

Gucchi mushrooms are found naturally in the high-altitude regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. They typically grow in Himalayan coniferous forests between March and June, particularly after the snow melts.

Unlike commonly available mushrooms, Gucchi mushrooms are difficult to cultivate on a large scale. They grow naturally in remote mountainous areas, making them difficult to collect and relatively scarce. Depending on their quality and availability, they can reportedly cost up to ₹50,000 per kilogram.

At the BRICS gala dinner, the mushrooms were prepared with saffron, raisins and Mamra almonds, adding both flavour and nutritional value to the dish.

What makes Gucchi mushrooms so special?

Gucchi mushrooms are commonly known as morels, with Morchella esculenta being one of the well-known species. They belong to the Morchellaceae family.

Their most distinctive feature is their honeycomb-like, spongy appearance. The mushrooms are hollow inside and develop a rich, earthy and umami-like flavour when cooked. Their unique aroma and texture have made them a prized ingredient in gourmet cuisine.

Gucchi mushrooms are packed with nutrients

Morel mushrooms are considered nutritionally valuable because they contain protein, dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals, while being relatively low in calories and fat.

They also contain carbohydrates, various fatty acids and several bioactive compounds. Their nutritional composition can vary depending on the species, growing region and environmental conditions.

Because of this combination of nutrients, Gucchi mushrooms can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Potential health benefits of Gucchi mushrooms

May support heart health

The nutrients and bioactive compounds found in morel mushrooms may contribute to overall heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Supports digestion

Gucchi mushrooms contain dietary fibre, which can help support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Provides iron

Morel mushrooms contain iron, an essential mineral required for the production of haemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

Contains vitamin D

Morel mushrooms can also provide vitamin D, an important nutrient involved in bone health and several other functions in the body.

May fit into a diabetes-friendly diet

Morel mushrooms are relatively low in carbohydrates and can be included as part of a balanced diet. However, people with diabetes should consider their overall meal composition and portion sizes rather than relying on any single food for blood-sugar management.

Be careful when consuming wild Gucchi mushrooms

Since Gucchi mushrooms grow naturally in forests and mountainous regions, correct identification is extremely important. Some wild fungi can look similar to edible mushrooms but may be harmful if consumed.

If purchasing Gucchi mushrooms, choose them from a reliable source. Clean them thoroughly before cooking to remove dirt and other impurities, and make sure they are properly cooked before eating.

From their appearance and flavour to their scarcity and nutritional profile, Gucchi mushrooms are much more than an expensive ingredient. Their natural Himalayan origin and distinctive characteristics have made them one of India's most sought-after wild mushrooms — and their appearance at the BRICS gala dinner has once again put this rare delicacy in the spotlight.