What Are Truffles? A Specialist Guide

Truffles are one of the most luxurious and enigmatic ingredients in fine food. Known for their distinct aroma, earthy complexity and scarcity, truffles have long been revered by chefs and gourmands around the world. Often described as the “diamonds of the kitchen,” these underground fungi are a hallmark of high-end cuisine.

But what exactly are truffles? What do they taste like, how are they used, and why do they come with such a premium price tag?

In this specialist guide, we will explore everything you need to know about truffles. From the different varieties and when they are in season, to how they should be stored, cleaned and used in cooking. Whether you are new to truffles or looking to refine your knowledge, this guide is designed to help you get the most out of this prized ingredient.

Key Takeaways

• Truffles are seasonal fungi that grow underground and are traditionally foraged using trained dogs.
• Their flavour and aroma vary depending on the type, with white truffles being more delicate and black truffles offering deeper, richer notes.
• They are best stored in a cool, dry container and should be used promptly for maximum flavour.
• Truffles can be shaved raw or cooked gently, depending on the variety.
• Fine Food Specialist offers a carefully curated range of fresh, frozen and infused truffle products.

What Are Truffles?

Truffles are a type of subterranean fungus that grow in close association with the roots of certain trees, such as oak, hazel and beech. They are found in specific climates and soil types, mainly in regions of Italy, France, and parts of Eastern Europe. Unlike mushrooms, which grow above ground, truffles develop beneath the surface and must be located by skilled foragers and specially trained dogs.

Their unique growing conditions, combined with their rich and layered aroma, make them a rare and expensive delicacy. Truffles are highly valued in cooking because of their ability to transform a dish with only a small amount. Their deep, savoury flavour adds an earthy intensity that is hard to replicate with any other ingredient.

If you are curious to explore the world of truffles for yourself, our specialist truffle range includes seasonal fresh truffles and truffle-infused products delivered straight to your door.

What Do Truffles Taste Like?

The flavour of truffles is difficult to describe because it is so unique. White truffles, such as those from Alba, are known for their pungent, almost garlicky aroma. They have a delicate yet assertive flavour that is best appreciated raw, shaved finely over freshly cooked dishes such as pasta or risotto. The heat from the dish helps to release the full aroma of the truffle without overpowering its subtlety.

Black truffles have a more robust and earthy flavour. Depending on the variety, they can offer nutty, slightly sweet or even chocolatey notes. These truffles are often used in cooking because their flavour holds up well under heat. When added to sauces, butter or cheese, they lend a warm, complex depth to the dish.

Honey truffles are a lesser-known variety that offer a surprising sweetness. They work well in both savoury and dessert applications and are often used to complement ingredients like foie gras or creamy cheeses.

Types of Truffles and When They Are in Season

Each truffle variety has its own distinct flavour and seasonal availability. The most well-known white truffle is the Alba truffle, harvested between October and December in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is considered the most aromatic and is best enjoyed fresh, shaved over pasta, scrambled eggs or delicate meats like veal or wagyu.

Spring white truffles, typically in season from January to April, are milder but still aromatic. These are often used in lighter seasonal dishes such as risottos or pasta with fresh herbs.
Summer truffles are available from May to September and are more subtle in flavour. These black truffles are often used for infusions and are popular in truffle oil and butter. Autumn truffles, harvested between October and December, offer a nutty, slightly earthy character that holds up well in warm dishes.

The French Périgord truffle, or tuber melanosporum, is a winter variety available from December to March. It is known for its intense flavour and aroma and is a favourite for classic French preparations such as poultry stuffed with truffle and cream-based sauces.
For those looking to experiment with something different, honey truffles are in season from August to November. These rare fungi have a saccharine note that can elevate both sweet and savoury recipes.

You can explore our range of fresh seasonal truffles for the most up-to-date availability.

Where Do Truffles Come From?

Most of the world’s premium truffles come from Italy and France, though they can also be found in regions of Hungary, Croatia and even Australia. Truffles are wild fungi that grow in very specific environmental conditions. They are typically found near tree roots and require well-drained, slightly alkaline soil.

Truffle hunting is a time-honoured tradition, and at Fine Food Specialist we work with experienced foragers who use specially trained dogs to locate truffles in protected woodland areas. Every truffle is hand-harvested, cleaned and shipped quickly to preserve its unique flavour and aroma.

How to Store, Clean and Cook Truffles

Truffles are highly perishable, so proper storage is crucial. Fresh truffles should be wrapped in clean kitchen paper and placed in an airtight glass container, then stored in the fridge. It is important to change the paper every day to prevent moisture from accumulating. They are best used within a few days of arrival, while their aroma is still at its peak. You can also place fresh truffles in a sealed container with Arborio rice or fresh eggs to naturally infuse their flavour.

If you have frozen truffles or plan to freeze fresh ones, seal them in a vacuum bag or airtight container. Although freezing will diminish some of the aroma, they still perform well in sauces and warm dishes. We offer a convenient range of frozen truffles for those who want to enjoy truffles year-round.

Cleaning truffles should be done just before use. Use a soft brush to gently remove any soil. A quick rinse under cold water is acceptable if needed, but never soak them. Excess water can dull their flavour and reduce shelf life.

When it comes to cooking, white truffles should never be heated directly. Instead, shave them raw over warm dishes so the heat brings out their aroma. Black truffles are more versatile and can be cooked gently in sauces, oils or butter. They are also delicious baked into puff pastry or incorporated into creamy mashed potatoes.

A truffle shaver or a very sharp knife is essential to get thin, even slices. You can find our truffle shaver in the kitchen tools section of the site.

Cooking Ideas and Pairings

Truffles pair best with simple, high-quality ingredients that allow their flavour to shine. One of the most classic uses is in fresh pasta. Toss cooked tagliatelle with cold butter, a splash of reserved pasta water and a generous grating of Parmigiano Reggiano. Finish with thin shavings of white truffle and a drizzle of black truffle oil.

For a more rustic approach, try stirring truffle butter into creamy polenta or scrambled eggs. Truffles also pair beautifully with mushrooms, poultry, wagyu beef, or a mature hard cheese. A rich risotto made with Acquerello carnaroli rice, finished with truffle-infused butter and grated truffle, makes for an elegant main course.

For more inspiration, visit our Drogo’s Kitchen recipes featuring truffle-infused dishes.

Our Favourite Truffle Products

Not everyone has access to fresh truffles year-round, but you can still enjoy their flavour through premium truffle products. Our truffle pasta and sauces make weekday meals taste like fine dining. We also stock truffle cheeses, oils and gourmet gift hampers.

If you are looking for a gift, our truffle selection includes curated sets ideal for food lovers.

Specialist Guide to Truffles Common FAQs

Why are truffles so expensive?

Truffles are hard to find, difficult to grow and have a short shelf life. Their rarity and labour-intensive harvesting process contribute to the high cost.

Are truffles mushrooms?

Truffles are fungi, but they differ from mushrooms in where and how they grow. Mushrooms are typically cultivated above ground, while truffles grow underground in symbiosis with tree roots.

Are truffles good for you?

Yes. Truffles are low in fat, contain antioxidants and have antimicrobial properties. They’re also a good source of minerals, though they’re typically eaten in small quantities.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know what truffles are and how to use them, it’s the perfect time to experience them for yourself. Whether you are exploring a delicate white truffle from Alba or incorporating robust black truffle into your next dinner party dish, truffles bring something rare and remarkable to the table.

At Fine Food Specialist, we offer a broad selection of fresh truffles, truffle-infused products and gourmet pantry staples. With next-day delivery across the UK, luxury cooking is always within reach.

Explore our complete truffle range or head to Drogo’s Kitchen for more recipe inspiration!