The black truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vitt) is one of those extraordinary foods that nature has been able to produce throughout history. It is a species of fungus that grows in symbiosis with the roots of trees such as holm oak, white oak, hazelnut, chestnut or kermes oak, in soils with very specific conditions.
Of course, its cultivation is no easy task, as it requires years of patience, constant care and a thorough knowledge of the soil, the climate and the biology of the fungus. However, the result and the wait are well worth the wait, as we obtain a gourmet product capable of transforming an ordinary dish into an elevated sensory experience for the senses that commands a high market price.
Its intense aroma and unmistakable umami taste have made the black truffle highly valued in the world of haute cuisine. But the good news is that you don’t have to be a Michelin-starred chef to enjoy this exquisite food. In fact, by applying some fairly simple techniques and a little creativity, anyone can learn how to use black truffle to elevate even the most everyday recipes to haute cuisine status. For this reason, here are five simple ways to use it to better understand what the black truffle is used for in the kitchen.
How to use the black truffle to get the most out of it?
The first thing you should bear in mind to make the most of its potential is to understand that the black truffle does not really need to be cooked or necessarily go through overly complex processing methods. Don’t forget that, when subjected to high temperatures, this fungus quickly begins to lose its aromatic and tasting properties.
For this reason, it is an ingredient that shines especially when it is added at the end of the preparation, when the food is still hot, as in this way it retains all its aroma and flavour. Whether you prefer to enjoy it fresh or canned, the important thing is to use it wisely, as just a little slice or grate of this gourmet mushroom on top of your dishes is enough to transform a dish. Also, don’t forget that you don’t need to add a large quantity to take the quality of your dishes to the next level. If you are interested, you can read this article in which we talk about the culinary uses of black truffle.
Black truffle in sauces
One of the easiest and most effective ways to use black truffle is to incorporate it in creamy sauces. Simply prepare a cream base with butter or olive oil and add a few thin slices or zest just before serving and stir the mixture well. This technique is able to perfectly preserve the flavour and aroma without excessive heat degrading them.
For example, a cream and Parmesan sauce with a touch of black truffle can be used to accompany homemade tagliatelle or even a mild risotto. Even in simpler dishes, such as sautéed potatoes or fried or scrambled eggs, adding black truffle sauce can add a sophisticated character that does not go unnoticed. If you want to go for this type of recipe, we recommend you take a look at this post: Black truffle sauces: homemade recipes to enhance the flavour of your dishes.
Black truffle in meats and stews
In the world of truffle farming, one of the most classic applications is to combine black truffle with meat. Whether in noble pieces such as sirloin or duck magret, or in more traditional stews, the truffle adds depth and such an enveloping aroma that it usually surprises everyone.
The key is to add it at the right moment. For example, in stews, it can be added at the end, sliced, so that the residual heat releases its aroma; in grilled or roasted meats, you can add it on top just before serving. This makes it easier to understand what the black truffle is used for: to enhance and complement, bearing in mind that it should not be masked by the flavour and aroma of other foods.
Black truffle in oils
Truffled oil is probably the most versatile way to preserve and use black truffles all year round. Making it at home is simple, as all you have to do is infuse a few slices of fresh black truffle in a good extra virgin olive oil, leaving it to rest for a few days so that it absorbs all its aroma.
This oil can be used in salads, carpaccios, grilled vegetables or even to make homemade popcorn to give it a surprising touch, ideal for enjoying a good afternoon at the movies. It is an ideal way to always have the essence of the truffle on hand beyond the ripening and harvesting season. If you are thinking of making this authentic delicacy, don’t hesitate to take a look at an article in which we address the question of how to make truffle oil?
Black truffle in fish
Although it is less common than with meat, the combination of black truffle and fish is a real discovery for those lucky enough to have tried it. White fish such as hake, cod or sea bass are perfect for this pairing, as their mild flavour allows the truffle to take centre stage.
A fairly simple recipe consists of preparing a mashed potato or cauliflower base, placing the fish on top and adding a few slices of fresh truffle before serving. The result is a balanced, elegant and very aromatic dish, perfect for special occasions.
Black truffle in creams and purées
If you are looking for a versatile and simple use of this exquisite fungus, consider incorporating black truffle into creams and purées as an excellent option. Its smooth texture and its moderate temperature are perfect for preserving the aroma of this exquisite fungus.
Creams such as pumpkin, courgette, carrot, potato, mushroom or even leek creams gain a gourmet touch by simply adding a few slices of black truffle at the end. This use demonstrates how to use black truffle in everyday dishes, transforming them into dishes worthy of a haute cuisine restaurant. Do you want to experiment with this type of recipe? Read our article to find out how to use black truffle in creams and purées.
In short, we can say that the black truffle is one of those exceptional ingredients that, despite its exclusivity, can be enjoyed without the need for complicated culinary techniques. You can enjoy it in sauces, oils and meats as well as in fish or creams. After all, you only need to know how to use the black truffle correctly to make the most of its extraordinary aroma and flavour. In the end, the important thing is not only to know what the black truffle is used for, but to dare to incorporate this ingredient in all kinds of everyday cooking preparations, elevating each dish to the category of haute cuisine restaurants.
