Truffles have long enjoyed a mysterious appeal, not only to the mycologist (1) but also to a wider audience. These exotic fungi have been celebrated in myth and lore as well as being worshiped by chefs around the world. (2)
Did you know that Tuber magnatum or White truffle can be found only in a few places in the world? All this places are located in Europe. Croatia and Italy are the main area from which truffle comes. It can be found in small quantity – here and there in Hungary and rarely in France. White truffle become even more precious knowing that it has never been possible to grow it. Everything is up to skillful truffle hunter and his dog to search and find it buried deep under the soil.
Istrian white truffle prefers shade, moisture and valleys unlike black truffle who enjoys sun and dryness. Area of central Istria in Croatia provides exactly enough moisture thanks to the nearby river Mirna. Istrian white truffle can be found in, but not limited to the forest around Buzet, Oprtalj and Livade. Seems like soil in Istria is perfect home for one of the most mysterious and exclusive fungi in the world!
White truffles are usually eaten row. Its complex aroma is destroyed by cooking, so it is usually shaved raw over cooked dishes. (3) White truffle products should be always added in the meal towards the end of the preparation.
(Hurst & Rutherford, 1991) Also recommending to serve truffles with chicken or turkey breast and cheese. Few slices of truffle or spoon of white truffle sauce are usually added when the dish is almost done. White truffle sauce and white truffle oil can be great match with any seafood, like scallops or abalone as with any kind of fish.
Experiment your way into magical truffle world and use your imagination and creativity to enrich your meals. And last but not the least, don’t be afraid to always try something new. ISTRA Truffle collection can help you start your truffle culinary adventure. Bon Appétit or how Croatians would say it, Dobar tek!
Reference
(1) Mycology; the branch of biology concerned with the study of fungi
(2) Lovato, K. (2009). Walnut Wine & Truffle Groves. Philadelphia, PA: Running Press.
(3) Nowak, Z. (2015). Truffle, A Global History. London, UK: Reaktion Books.
(4) Hurst, J., Rutherford, L. (1991). Mushrooms & Truffles. New York, NY: Salamander Books.
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