What is a Truffle (and Why They’re So Expensive)
on Feb 02, 2022, Updated Apr 02, 2022
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Truffles are one of the most expensive and rare ingredients used in cooking. These fungi grow in the soil under tree roots, and are usually found by dogs or pigs that are trained to hunt them. Even though they are related to mushrooms, truffles are a lot harder to find and they sell for a much higher price tag.
If you haven’t already figured it out already, we’re not talking about chocolate truffles! These fungi are usually served at expensive restaurants where they’re shaved over meals or infused in oils. In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about truffles, from the difference between black and white truffles, to what they taste like and how to cook with them!
Why Are Real Truffles So Expensive?
There are many reasons why real truffles cost so much money. Truffles are difficult to find in nature because the weather conditions have to be perfect for them to grow. Once they’ve grown, they need to be hunted with expensive animals who are trained to smell truffles in the soil. They also have a very short shelf life and their flavor gets weaker within days of being harvested.
Types of Truffles
White and black truffles are both in high demand but there are some differences between them. Black truffles are cheaper because they’re easier to find and different varieties of them can be harvested in all seasons. White truffles, often called white diamonds, have always been more expensive because they have a stronger aroma and flavor. White truffles are usually hunted from September to December while black truffle season usually lasts from December to February.
What Does a Truffle Taste Like?
Truffles are a unique food and hard to describe if you’ve never tasted them before. Black truffles have a meaty texture and a nutty, earthy aroma and taste. White truffles usually have a more fragrant aroma than black truffles, and a flavor that is described as garlicy, nutty and musky.
Where Do Truffles Grow Naturally?
Truffles have been found all over the world, but most commonly in Italy, Croatia and France. They grow in soil near the roots of certain types of trees, usually oak or hazelnut, and feed on the tree’s nutrients to grow. White truffles are usually found in the Piedmont area of Italy or nearby Croatia. Black truffles are typically located in France but truffle enthusiasts have started trying to farm them in North America and Oceania.
Is a Truffle a Mushroom?
Truffles and mushrooms are both fungi but they’re more like cousins than siblings. Mushrooms grow on top of soil and have stems, while truffles grow underneath the ground and are actually the fruiting body of a fungus. Mushrooms can also grow in many different climates and regions while truffles can only grow in areas with moist soil and warm weather.
How Are Truffles Used in Cooking?
Due to their short shelf life, truffles are often cut into small pieces and infused in cooking oils and butter to get the most flavor out of them. It’s important to remember that truffles should NEVER be cooked as they lose flavor when they’re heated. Instead, they should be shaved over prepared food, such as pasta, risotto or steak, at the last moment possible for the best taste.
Where to Buy Truffles
Truffles can be purchased online from a variety of websites or in specific stores. Local Italian grocery stores are your best bet for finding real truffle oil and whole truffles in store. If you’re not sure where to find truffles near your area, a quick google search is always worth a try!
TIP: You’ll find the freshest truffles during the end of the harvest season in December!
Popular Recipes Using Truffles
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Easy Truffle Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon truffles, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt, optional
Instructions
- Soften the butter by removing from the refrigerator 1-2 hours ahead of time. (Alternatively, cut into ½-inch chunks and let sit on a cutting board for 10 minutes.)
- Combine the truffles and butter in a small bowl. Using a small spatula or spoon, blend until the truffles are evenly distributed.
- Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Serve or use as directed in recipes. To store, cover and refrigerate for up to one week.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
