We all know that Italy, within its renowned culinary tradition, offers an infinite variety of products.
Some of these are prevalent throughout the peninsula, others are rare and infinitely valuable. Today we are going to talk about one of the most sought-after ingredients of Italian cuisine, indeed of the best starred restaurants. We are talking about the precious truffle.
Truffle Season in Italy
What is the best time to go truffle hunting in Italy?
In reality, the truffle hunting season varies greatly depending on the variety. Truffles are actually present throughout the year, but there are best times to go hunting, so as to find a product at the peak of its flavor, and in compliance with the times and methods established by the law. By law? That’s right, by law, because the truffle is a highly sought-after and truly costly gift that nature offers to our tables. Whoever undertakes truffle hunting must know every rule related to its harvesting and obtain a license after passing an exam. It’s a very serious subject! So, what is the right equipment for a truffle hunter, or “tartufaio“? Most importantly, a trained dog. In fact, without Fido, we would never be able to sniff out a truffle. And also, a self-respecting aficionado will use a knife, 6cm long at most, to cut through the earth without damaging the roots among which the truffle grows in symbiosis.
The Varieties of Truffles
Here are the best times, permitted by the Italian regional regulations, to search the woods:
– From September to December you can harvest the smooth Black Truffle, and the precious White Truffle, the king of the category, also known as the Alba Truffle;
– From October to December it’s time for the Uncinato Black Truffle;
– From December to March it is the turn of the Black Truffle of Norcia, and the Moscato Truffle;
– From January to March, the Bianchetto or “Marzuolo” truffle (the Whitish Truffle);
– From June to August it is the turn of the famous Scorzone or Black Summer Truffle.
You’re probably wondering how you can experience a day in Tuscany hunting for truffles during your trip to Italy if you need a license. It’s simple, with one of the itineraries proposed by Dragonfly Tours, you can travel through Umbria and the Tuscan lands with an expert local guide, who, together with his four-legged friend, will give you experience in close contact with the countryside. And at the end of the day comes the best moment of all when, with a good glass of wine, it’s time for the tasting.
Traditional Dishes
Speaking of taste: how do the great Italian chefs usually prepare truffles? Some of the combinations may be traditional, but they are always the most appreciated. We are talking about eggs, a classic that goes perfectly with the truffle’s strong flavor and that every “expert” re-elaborates according to his own inspiration.
To enhance the refined essence of the White Truffle, the unpretentious flavor of “tajarin“, the Piedmontese tagliolini pasta made strictly by hand with a mixture of particular flours, is the perfect companion.
With such a valued product, which reaches record prices per gram in its different varieties (we are talking about thousands of euros per kilogram), you can experiment and use it in dishes ranging from savory to shellfish, and even ice cream.
Some of these flavorful combinations are found in one of the major Italian truffle festivals, the International Alba White Truffle Festival, one of the most famous events in the food scene of the luxury sector, where the truffle takes center stage in cooking shows with chefs and special guests.
Treat yourself to the luxury of the palate at the table. With Dragonfly Tours every request can become reality during your relaxing Italian vacation.