The Truffle

GIULIANO TARTUFI

What is the Truffle?

team

The Truffle is an hypogeum mushroom that is born underground and grows next to the roots of some tree varieties such as oaks, hazelnuts, poplars, lime trees, which are very common in our land. Thanks to mycorrhiza, aka a tiny network of filaments, the truffle and its hosting plant bind in a symbiotic relationship that allows an intense exchange of water, nourishments and mineral salts. Reproduction takes place through spores that, once fallen off on the ground, give life to new specimens.

From a structural point of view, each truffle is composed of:

  • an external surface called “peridium” which, depending on the variety, can be smooth or wrinkled;
  • an internal part called “gleba” which, according to the type of truffle, can be of different colors and with more or less clear -sometimes even white- veins.

In nature there are different species of truffles.

The four main ones are:

  • the White truffle, also called “Trifola”
  • the Precious black truffle, also called “Nero di Norcia”
  • the Bianchetto truffle
  • the black Summer truffle, also called Scorzone.
In nature, where is the Truffle hunted?

Truffles are found in free areas, for example in the woods, in the pine forests, along the edges of fields and roads; but also in controlled areas called “tartufaie”, i.e. lands where particular types of mycorrhized plants are planted.

Geographically, where to go Truffle hunting?

Who hunts Truffle?

Truffle hunters are specialized collectors with a regular permit who, thanks to the help of trained dogs and a particular tool called “vanghino” or “vanghetto”, are able to identify and extract the truffles from the ground.

To ensure that the underground mushroom will reborn, it is necessary that truffle hunters respect the indications given in the national and regional regulations.

How do Truffle hunting take place?

WASHING AND STORAGE

  1. WASH thoroughly in cold water with a special brush.
  2. ALWAYS STORE the fresh product in the fridge, wrapped in dry absorbent paper and closed in a glass or plastic container.
  3. MAXIMUM TERM of conservation of fresh truffles depends a lot on type, size and seasonality.

Winter and Summer blacks are drier and more resistant (and can last up to 1 month in the fridge), while Whites and Bianchettos, since richer in water, spoil faster (max 7/10 days in the fridge).