Truffles are the most prized and most expensive edible mushroom in the world. They grow underground and cannot be cultivated artificially. They are highly valued in gastronomy, because they are somewhat difficult to obtain. They grow underground, and pigs or dogs, trained only for that purpose, are of particular importance in finding them.
Their specific aroma can evaporate quickly, so it is important to use the truffles as fresh as possible.
Types of truffles
Black truffle (Summer)
Serbia is rich in truffle deposits, especially the black summer truffle, which is harvested from May to November. The mentioned mushroom is widespread in the areas of Šumadija, southern Serbia and on the slopes of Fruška Gora.
It belongs to the most widespread type of truffle. We can find it from valley forests to mountain terrains all the way to the beech belt. The plants with which it enters the mycorrhiza are primarily all types of oak, hornbeam, hazel, poplar, linden.
White truffle (Winter)
Did you know that Serbia is a country rich in truffles? It is one of the largest regions where white truffles grow. The white truffle is the most prized mushroom in the world, and therefore the most expensive. It reaches a price of up to €7,000 per kg. It is harvested in the period from October to January. It can be found in pieces of 2g and even up to 1kg.
The smell is intense, striking and unique. Apart from their gastronomic value, white truffles are extremely healthy because they restore gray brain cells and strengthen the body.
What is the difference between black and white truffles?
Many fans of healthy eating have a hard time distinguishing between black and white truffles, although there is a significant difference between them. Black truffles are more widespread and have a milder, more subtle flavor. On the other hand, white truffles are extremely rare and have a more intense aroma. They are also more challenging to harvest because they grow deeper underground, which makes them more expensive and valued in the market.
What affects the price of truffles?
Truffles are seasonal delicacies that require a lot of work and attention during harvesting and growing. Their post-harvest perishability means that rapid storage and distribution is required, which further raises the price. High demand, especially for rare specimens, contributes to the high market value of truffles. The price of truffles depends on their size and quality, and individual specimens sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars per pound at specialized auctions that attract buyers from around the world.
Storing truffles
You can store fresh truffles in two ways:
1) Pour rice into a glass jar to occupy 50% of space and put fresh truffles in it. If the truffles are healthy, they can be stored in this way for 7 to 10 days. The jar is in the fridge. Also, the rice will absorb the aroma of the truffle, and can be used for a meal.
2) Wrap the cleaned truffles in a napkin, each one individually, and put them in a jar. The jar must not be filled with truffles to the top, but leave 30% of space. Change the towel every day. In this way, truffles stay fresh for up to 10 days. The jar is in the fridge.
The healing properties of truffles
There are several hundred different types of truffles, and only about 10 are edible. They mostly grow in forests throughout Europe, and can also be found in Serbia. Since ancient times, they have been a natural medicine for the potency and vitality of the whole organism.
Truffles contain some nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, vitamins (like vitamin C), and minerals (like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium). They also contain antioxidants, which can have beneficial effects on health.
Preliminary research has suggested that some compounds present in truffles, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. It is also thought that truffles can improve the immune system and support heart health.
However, it should be noted that there is limited data on the medicinal properties of truffles, and most research has been conducted on animals or in vitro, which means that the results cannot be directly applied to humans. Further research is needed to better understand the potential health benefits of truffles and their impact on the human body.
What does truffle taste like?
Truffles are known for their unique, rich taste and strong aroma. Their taste has often been compared to mushrooms, but truffles provide a much more intense and complex gastronomic experience, with additional nutty, whitish or floral tones. Black truffles have a milder smell and taste, while white truffles have a much stronger aroma that can enrich any dish. The freshness of truffles is key to preserving their intense flavor, as their quality declines rapidly after harvest.
Truffles and gastronomy
Anyone who likes this taste will easily incorporate truffles into their diet. They go best with pasta, meat, eggs, pizza.
Here are a few ways truffles are used in gastronomy:
Food supplement
Truffles are often used as an addition to dishes to give them a rich, aromatic taste and aroma. They can be grated or finely chopped and added to pastas, risottos, sauces, dips, soups or salads. They can also be used to enrich meat, fish or egg dishes.
Truffles in oil
Truffle oil can also be made. The truffles are added to the olive oil and left to infuse to impart their flavor and aroma to the oil. This truffle oil can be used as a dressing for salads, an addition to dishes or as a delicious seasoning.
Truffles in cheese
Truffles are often used in the production of different types of cheese. Cheeses with truffles have a characteristic taste and can be a great addition to sandwiches or just for tasting with wine.
Truffles in sweet dishes
Although truffles are traditionally used in savory dishes, gastronomy is increasingly experimenting with their use in sweet dishes as well. Truffles can be an extremely interesting addition to chocolate desserts, cakes or ice cream, providing a unique combination of sweetness and characteristic truffle flavor.
Truffles as a standalone dish
In luxury restaurants, truffles are often served as an independent dish, usually grated or finely chopped over dishes such as pasta or risotto. This allows the richness of the taste and aroma of truffles to be fully highlighted.
Recipe suggestions with truffles
Pasta with black truffles for 2 people
Ingredients:
- 200g pasta
- 125ml neutral cooking cream
- 40g butter
- 200g fresh mushrooms
- 20g parmesan cheese
- Sea salt
- Olive oil with black truffle flavor
- Black truffle carpaccio
Preparation:
While the pasta is cooking, add chopped fresh mushrooms, a little sea salt and pepper to the heated butter. When the champignons are almost ready, add neutral cream and boil briefly. Drain the pasta and add them to the sauce so that they come together as nicely as possible. Serve with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, black carpaccio and a few drops of black truffle flavored olive oil.
Omelette with black truffles for 2 people
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 100g mushrooms
- Olive oil with black truffles
- Sea Salt
- 40g of black truffle carpaccio
- Pepper
Preparation:
Spray the pan with black truffle olive oil, then add the previously chopped mushrooms and season with sea salt. Serve the eggs with green salad and prosciutto. For complete enjoyment, sprinkle the carpaccio with black truffle leaves.
Truffles are a prized food item used in gourmet dishes for their unique taste and aroma. Although they are not essential for a balanced diet, they can be a delight for food lovers. It is important to consume them in moderation as part of a varied diet.
