Italian truffles are seen as one of the most sought after delicacies in the world today and they’re definitely loved here in Italy. Originating from the Latin word tuber, meaning “lump”, they are commonly referred to as tartufo in Italy and have existed since ancient times. Although they may have been around through ancient times, they are still loved just as much, if not more, now. There are recipes dating back to the first century B.C. which would have been used by the upper class Romans during their banquets for their equally as rich friends. Italy remains one of the largest producers and exporters of their delicious Italian truffles, and have several truffle fairs exist throughout the country annually to show off their produce. The most famous fair is the International Alba White Truffle Fair which will be celebrating its 88th anniversary this fall, and will be held on weekends from October 6th through November 25th.

The different types of Italian truffles

There are two different types of truffles that are commonly used throughout Italy, they may be shaved onto the top of gnocchi or added into butter, but they’re both delicious. You may be wondering, what is the difference between the truffles? what makes one more expensive? which one should you try? We have all of the information you may need about the famous truffles.

There are different types of truffles that are commonly used throughout Italy. There are two main colors of truffles, the black & white truffles. These are both equally used throughout the country and are loved for different reasons. The winter white truffles are in season in Italy from October through to early January and summer white truffles are in season from mid January through the end of April. That means that for most of the year from October-April, Italy is producing and selling a huge quality of white truffles. These truffles are treasured by native Italians and visitors alike due to their value and exquisite taste – something that you must try when you’re visiting Italy. Once they have been harvested, white truffles remain fresh for only a few short days, up to a week if refrigerated immediately, meaning that the faster you can eat them the better!
The second type of truffles are the black truffles. The winter black truffles are in season from November through to March, and summer black truffles are from May through September. These truffles are a little bit easier to transport than white truffles as they can remain fresh for up to two weeks which may be why you see more black truffles used in restaurants throughout the city.

Several differences exist between the white and black truffles, especially when it comes to their value. White truffles are the most precious, and can cost tens of thousands of dollars per pound, depending on the quality of the truffle, whereas black truffles typically cost much less. White truffles have a smooth surface and a white to ochre color, whereas black truffles have a rough surface and their color varies from black to dark brown. The flavor and scent of white and black truffles are also wildly different; white truffles have a strong earthy scent and are said to have a garlic, honey, or nutty taste, whereas, black truffles have a milder aroma similar to that of scallops or chocolate and a taste of earthy chocolate. But for us, they’re both just as delicious as each other!

Where to find Italian truffles?

The perfect temperature for truffles is in a chilly & humid climate where they can properly grow and become delicious.. You can find truffles growing in forests throughout Italy, primarily in the northern area of Piedmont, central areas of Tuscany, Marche, and Umbria. They can grow between one and six inches underground and are often also found under many species of trees, including poplar, oak, hazelnut and willow.
A fascinating fact about truffles and the aforementioned trees is their symbiotic relationship. Trees offer the truffle carbohydrates that it receives through photosynthesis with the sun, and the deep roots of the truffle offer the trees water, and minerals. Now don’t think that you can go and find these truffles yourself, truffle hunters use specially trained dogs to seek them out in select forests throughout northern and central Italy, not as easy as you first thought right? More often than not, these specific locations remain a carefully guarded secret so that we can’t all go and harvest these delicacies.

The best way to use Italian truffles

Truffles are not only a gourmet delicacy, they are healthy as well, containing potassium, calcium and magnesium as well as a high level of proteins. Meaning that more than just being a treat for us, these are good for us too! Shaving truffles over cooked dishes such as pasta, risotto and fried eggs is a common method of serving them in restaurants in Italy and at homes. You can also find lots of oils, butters and pastes that use truffles, giving your dishes a delicious kick of the flavor.
If you’re thinking of buying some truffles yourself, you should know that white truffles should not be cooked as their distinctive taste and aroma are destroyed when they are heated. However, black truffles are also used as an ingredient as cooking them accentuates their flavor even more. Thin slices are often placed into slits of meat or under the skin of poultry to create a culinary delight full with flavor.

Truffles very existence is awe inspiring. Requiring an incredibly specific environment to thrive, in just a few areas of the world, during specific months throughout the year, and are edible for only a few short days. On top of all of that, their taste is exquisite and they are a healthy food source. Who wouldn’t want to take a trip to Italy and try them out?