Truffle

Truffle is a type of edible fungus that is highly prized for its unique flavor and aroma. Truffles are typically found underground, near the roots of certain trees, and are harvested using specially trained dogs or pigs.

Black Périgord Truffle

There are many different species of truffle, but the most commonly consumed varieties are black truffles and white truffles. Black truffles are found in Europe, while white truffles are found in Italy.

Trained pig in Gignac, Lot, France

Culinary Uses

Truffles are used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, risotto, and scrambled eggs. They are often shaved or grated over the top of the dish, and can add a rich, earthy flavor and aroma. Truffles are also used in a variety of specialty products, such as truffle oil, truffle butter, and truffle salt.

Trained dog in Mons, Var

Harvesting

Truffles are typically harvested in the fall and winter months, when they are fully ripe. The process of harvesting truffles is highly specialized, and requires trained dogs or pigs to locate the truffles, which are then carefully dug up from the ground. The high value of truffles has led to concerns about over-harvesting and damage to the natural habitat of the truffle-producing trees.

Nutrition

• Truffles are a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a popular choice for people who are looking to maintain a healthy diet.
• However, truffles are also high in sodium, and should be consumed in moderation by people who are watching their salt intake.

Types of Truffles

Black Truffle

The black truffle or black Périgord truffle, scientifically known as Tuber melanosporum, grows exclusively with oak trees and is named after the Périgord region in France. It can be found in late autumn and winter, reaching up to 7 cm in diameter and weighing up to 100 g. France, Spain, and Italy account for most of the production, with small amounts coming from Slovenia, Croatia, and Australia. The largest truffle market in France is at Richerenches in Vaucluse, while the largest truffle market in southwest France is at Lalbenque in Quercy.

White Truffle

The white truffle or Alba Madonna, scientifically known as Tuber magnatum, is found in the Piedmont region of northern Italy and in the countryside around the city of Alba. It also grows in Croatia, on the Istria peninsula in the Motovun forest alongside Mirna river. They grow with oak, hazel, poplar, and beech trees, and fruit in autumn. They can reach up to 12 cm in diameter and 500 g, though they are usually much smaller. Italian white truffles are highly esteemed, and the white truffle market in Alba is busiest in October and November.

Notable Truffle Discoveries

Giancarlo Zigante and his dog Diana found one of the largest truffles in the world near Buje, Croatia. The truffle weighed 1.31 kg and entered the Guinness Book of Records. The record price paid for a single white truffle was set in December 2007, when Macau casino owner Stanley Ho paid US$330,000 for a specimen weighing 1.5 kg.

Cultural Significance

Truffles have a long history in European cuisine, and are often associated with luxury and high-end dining. They are also associated with a certain level of mystery and intrigue, due to their underground growing habits and the use of specially trained dogs or pigs to locate them. In recent years, truffles have become more widely available and affordable, and are now enjoyed by people all over the world.

See also

• Mushroom
• Culinary arts
• Food culture
• Italian cuisine