What Is Truffle? Complete Guide
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A truffle is an underground fungus that grows in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees — mainly holm oaks, oaks and hazels — in a process called mycorrhiza. Unlike other mushrooms, truffles develop below the soil and can only be located thanks to their intense aroma, making them one of the most singular and coveted ingredients in world gastronomy.
How does a truffle form?
The fungus builds a symbiotic relationship with the tree's roots: it supplies water and nutrients from the soil, and in return receives the sugars the tree produces through photosynthesis. Over time, and with the right conditions of humidity, temperature and soil type, the fruiting body we know as a truffle forms, usually several centimetres underground.
How is it found?
Since truffles grow underground and can't be seen with the naked eye, they're traditionally located with the help of trained dogs, able to detect their characteristic aroma even through the soil. Pigs were used in the past, but today dogs are the preferred method for truffle hunters worldwide, including in Mallorca.
Main types of truffle
Although dozens of varieties exist, two are the most prized in haute cuisine:
- White truffle (Tuber magnatum): the most exclusive and aromatic, with a brief season between October and December. Always eaten raw, shaved over the dish. Learn more in our definitive white truffle guide.
- Winter black truffle (Tuber melanosporum): earthier and more elegant in aroma, available November through March. It handles cooking well and is chefs' favourite for sauces, rice dishes and meats.
To discover every variety we work with throughout the year, including summer and autumn truffle, check out our guide to the 4 great truffles.
Why is it so prized (and expensive)?
A very short season, artisanal harvesting that depends entirely on nature, and the impossibility of industrial cultivation make truffle one of the most expensive gourmet products in the world. For a detailed look at pricing and what determines it, see our article Why is it the most expensive product in the world?.
How is truffle used in cooking?
White truffle is grated or shaved raw over pasta, eggs, risottos or meats right before serving, to preserve all its aroma. Black truffle, on the other hand, can be added to stews, sauces and stocks, as its flavour intensifies slightly with heat. In both cases, less is more: a few grams are enough to transform any dish.
How to buy fresh truffle
At Valle Trufa we personally select each piece according to the season, with refrigerated shipping so it arrives in perfect condition. Explore our selection of fresh white truffle and fresh black truffle, or visit us at our physical shop in Santanyí, Mallorca.