Have you ever ordered an egg or pasta dish at a high-end restaurant and saw a little, black, and pretty unappealing garnish on your plate and wondered what it was?
The small thing is known as a truffle, which is a kind of fungus.
In reality, it’s rather pricey. Truffles are a delicacy, despite their appearance.
Because of their rich flavor and texture, they are sometimes likened to caviar and foie gras.
So how does truffle taste? We’re here to answer that question and more.
Thus, whether you’ve just purchased fresh truffles or are simply intrigued about this delicious item, keep reading.
Contents
- What is Truffle?
- What Does Truffle Taste Like?
- How to Cook and Use Truffle?
- Final Thought
- FAQs
- What does truffle taste similar to?
- What is so special about truffles?
- Can you eat straight truffle?
- What is the tastiest truffle?
- How much does a truffle cost?
- What is the best way to eat truffles?
- Where do truffles grow in the USA?
- Why do some people not like truffle?
- How much does a pound of truffles cost?
- What part of the pig is truffle?
What is Truffle?
A truffle is the fruiting body of a Tuber fungus that grows underground.
They live in intimate association with the roots of some trees, most notably oak, hazel, beech, and poplar.
Truffles are generally round or egg-shaped and may vary in size from a pea to a lemon.
The surface is covered in microscopic, rough scales known as warts or tubercles.
There are about 140 truffle species, but the two most valuable and costly forms are the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) and the white truffle (Tuber magnatum).
White truffles are mainly found in northern Italy, whilst black truffles are often farmed in France.
Overall, truffles are noted for their distinct taste, which is difficult to define.
Their scent is equally powerful and intense.
Some claim it smells like wet dirt, while others think it smells like garlic.
Did you know that these fungus create androstenone, a chemical that pigs also produce? Many people assume that this chemical is responsible for the truffle’s intense fragrance.
What Does Truffle Taste Like?
Truffles have a flavor that is identical to any species of fungus that grows above ground.
They have an earthy, nutty taste with a hint of garlic.
Moreover, some individuals claim that truffles taste meaty and gamy.
You may be wondering why the name truffle? Is it similar to its namesake, the chocolate truffle? Oh, kind of.
But not quite as chocolaty. The most popular variant, black truffles, have a woody, earthy, and faintly chocolaty flavor.
They are also often rougher and more stiff in texture.
In terms of taste, black truffles are often milder than their lighter-colored brethren, with an earthy aroma.
Truffles are unquestionably an acquired taste. Some individuals adore them, while others despise them.
There is no middle ground. But, if you like mushrooms, you’ll probably like truffles.
Despite their diminutive size, truffles are rich in nutrients.
They are high in protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
They also include important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, iron, and magnesium.
Truffles offer several health advantages as well.
Because of their high fiber content, they may assist improve digestion and metabolism.
They also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which may aid in illness prevention.
How to Cook and Use Truffle?
Let’s get started on the cooking.
First and foremost, you must choose the appropriate truffle.
Keep in mind that not all truffle species are edible.
As previously stated, the two most common and valuable truffles are the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) and the white truffle (Tuber asperum) (Tuber magnatum).
While shopping for truffles, these are the ones to look for.
Less is more when it comes to cooking with truffles.
Since their powerful taste may quickly overshadow a meal, use them sparingly.
Typically, truffles are shaved or grated over meals soon before serving.
From spaghetti and risotto to eggs and potatoes, this could be anything.
If you want to really appreciate the taste of truffles, you must prepare them appropriately.
Here are a few pointers:
- This may seem strange to you. But, do not wash your truffles. To remove any dirt, just brush them with a soft brush. If you wash them, all of the taste will be lost.
- Fresh truffles are excellent. If fresh truffles are unavailable, frozen or canned truffles may be used. Nonetheless, their taste will be weaker.
- When shaving or grating truffles, do it just before serving. This will aid in the preservation of their taste and perfume.
Yummly provides some delicious truffle recipes that you can prepare at home.
You may find them here.
Final Thought
We hope this article has addressed all of your questions about truffles, from what they are to how to cook with them.
Thus, consider yourself fortunate if you can get your hands on any truffles.
And yes, we say fortunate since these little fungus aren’t cheap.
Depending on the quality and grade, a pound of white truffle may cost up to $4000.
If you can’t afford to buy fresh truffles, you may still enjoy their taste by utilizing frozen or canned truffles.
Just don’t wash them and shave or grate them just before serving. And you’re ready to go.
