This rare mushroom, which grows in symbiosis with tree roots, is valued for its intense flavour and unmistakable aroma, which can elevate even simple dishes into gourmet experiences.
Types of truffles
There are several types of truffle in Italy, but two of the most famous and sought-after are the main ones:
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The white truffle (Tuber magnatum): the rarest and most expensive of the truffles. It has a delicate but intense aroma that has been compared to garlic or Parmesan. It is mainly found in the Piedmont and Tuscany regions. The most famous place for harvesting white truffles is the town of Alba in Piedmont, where the famous truffle festival is held every October/November.truffle festival and auction, where truffles are sold for exorbitant sums and tasted in conjunction with the local Barolo wine. In Tuscany, the White Truffle Festival takes place in November.
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Black truffle (Tuber melanosporum): This species is particularly prized in French and Italian cuisine. It grows mainly in the Umbria region. It is less rare than the white one, but still highly sought after. It has a slightly milder flavour and is well suited for cooking.
Traditional harvesting of truffles
The harvesting of truffles is associated with a secret and an art that has been handed down from generation to generation. Truffle picking is most often carried out by specially trained dogs, which have a fine sense of smell and can find truffles deep underground.previously, truffles were found using pigs, which have a natural instinct to dig them up, but modern hunters prefer dogs because they are less destructive to the soil and more docile.
Truffles in Italian cuisine
Truffles are an integral part of Italian haute cuisine. The white truffle is often served fresh, the thin slices being planed directly onto the dish just before serving. Typical combinations are with simple dishes that let its flavour stand out - for example, tagliolini with truffles, risotto or eggs with truffles.
Black truffle, on the other hand, is used more in sauces and cooking. Its aroma is more stable and it can withstand heat, so it is often used in pâtés, pasta or meat dishes.
Luxury, tradition and ecology
Truffles have become a symbol of luxury not only because of their price, but also because of their exclusivity and short season. The market price of truffles can reach thousands of euros per kilo, especially for white truffles, whose season lasts only a few months.
Since truffles grow only in specific conditions, environmental protection in these areas is crucial. Some regions have introduced strict regulations on the collection and sale of truffles in order to preserve biodiversity and protect natural resources.
