Do you know how long people have been enjoying the distinct taste and aroma of truffles? Let us tell you; it isn’t something people have started using recently; it’s been a favorite for millennia. It is considered a luxurious ingredient in many cuisines around the world. There is no doubt these rare fungi have captivated the taste buds of many, but what exactly makes them unique? If you don’t know, read all the interesting facts to see why we want you to buy truffles.
Let’s begin.
Table of Contents
They Are Very Expensive (Unless You Buy Truffle Products)
When you come across any dish with truffles in it, you can expect it to be a bit pricey. Like caviar, they are also considered luxurious and have a reputation for being used only on special occasions. The reason for its steep price is its rarity and short shelf life. Each type of truffle only grows for a specific season and only thrives in specific environmental conditions. These are some of the reasons they come at a high price.
However, if you don’t want to spend a fortune and still enjoy its taste, try out different products from Tartuflanghe.
They Are Hard To Cultivate
Another reason for their hefty price tag is the challenge people have to face while cultivating them. While their farming isn’t entirely impossible, still it’s no easy task. The truffles usually grow in a Mediterranean climate and take around 7-10 years for the fungi to mature completely. Many countries have tried to cultivate truffles; however, they have only reached some degree of success. So, the truffle remains scarce and expensive.
They Have A Unique Flavor And Aroma Due To Chemistry
Have you ever wondered why do truffles smell and taste the way they do? Well, the answer is in chemistry. Their one-of-a-kind taste and smell are a result of the things present in them. There are hundreds of aromatic compounds in fresh truffles, including sulfur volatiles and fatty-acid-derived volatile chemicals. With so many potent compounds contributing, it is no wonder they have such an intense aroma and flavor.
Not All Truffle Oils Have Truffle
If you ever come across snacks that have truffle oil in them, the odds are they don’t have real truffles. Most manufacturers claiming to sell truffle oil have only the mixture of olive oil and other neutral oils, like grapeseed and canola in it. Only a few products in the market have residues of real truffles or sometimes pieces of them in a bottle.
They Have An Essential Role In The Ecosystem
Truffles grow symbiotically around numerous tree species, including cherry, oak, hazel, pine, and passionfruit. They can’t survive in the soil without any plant hosts. The trees provide them with carbohydrates, and in exchange, the truffle gives several micro and macronutrients to them.
There Are Seasons For Truffles
If you want to enjoy their taste to the fullest, then late winters or early springs are the best time. The season of white truffles starts from August to January. The fresh black truffles are available in the local market from December to March. Remember, the summer truffles give a hint of flavor but aren’t as intense as winter ones.
If someone serves them to you in another month, the chances are they came from a bottle or freezer that won’t give you the same intense flavor you paid for. You should also keep this in mind when you buy truffles.
Now that you know some interesting facts about them, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the product to help you understand it more clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is so special about truffles?
Truffles are irresistible due to their aroma and taste that makes them one of a kind. Other than that, they are rich in antioxidants and have properties that boost overall health.
- What can truffles be used for?
These are often used as a base for certain dishes. Chefs use them to make sauces, add them into soup or even ice-creams to enhance the taste. Some people also use them to make truffle butter at home.
- How is truffle found?
As truffles are ectomycorrhizal fungi, they are usually found close to tree roots.
