What is the fuss about truffle – they’re just mushrooms, right – so why are they so coveted the world over?
What exactly are truffles?
Truffles are a type of fungus found underground with a distinctive irregular shape and rough skin. They can range in size — from walnut to fist — and come in a number of varieties, including black, white, pine, garlic and Burgundy. Their ideal growing environment is around the roots of trees in damp woodland and forests, so specially trained pigs and dogs are used to sniff and dig them out. Nowadays, methods have been devised to cultivate truffles, making them easier to source.
Why are they so sought after?
Truffles may not look too pretty, given their rough shape and gnarly skin, but there are many compelling reasons why they are one of the most sought-after ingredients in gourmet meals. Their distinctive flavour is complex with notes of earth and musk. They offer a unique taste that is very hard — if not impossible — to replicate, meaning only authentic truffles will make the grade.
Truffles have traditionally had a mystique around them as they’re not easy to source and require precise climatic conditions for their growth. While modern cultivation methods mean they are easier to access than before, an aura of mystery still lingers around these flavoursome fungi.
Another of their unique qualities is that they release pheromones, chemical substances that can affect the behaviour of other living beings. In truffles, these include androstenone, which is related to testosterone, the male sex hormone. For this reason alone, truffles can be enticing to the human palate with their promise of sensual pleasure.
When harvested traditionally, truffles are a seasonal food, which means there’s always a bit of excitement around sampling the first fungi of the season. Last but not least, because of their unique qualities and growing conditions, truffles work out as an expensive ingredient. This tends to elevate their attractiveness even more.
How to eat truffles
Another thing many foodies love about truffles is that they’re versatile. Because they possess a strong flavour, they work best with simple ingredients like pasta and potato-based dishes to allow their unique taste to shine through. They also work exceptionally well with risottos and other rice dishes, which provide a simple backdrop to this tasty food. And truffles pair well with creamy and buttery sauces, amplifying their luxurious qualities.
Give truffles a chance!
If you’ve never tried truffles, give them a chance. You only need slim shavings of truffle to really make a difference to a dish, even with something as simple as a burger, you won’t need more than a small quantity. Or order them the next time you are out for a special meal… they are certainly a cause for celebration in themselves!