The black truffle is one of the most recognised and appreciated truffle varieties in the world thanks to its characteristics and exclusivity. It has a slightly sweet, mild and long-lasting taste, which makes it a highly demanded food in first class gastronomy for the elaboration of gourmet dishes. As for its appearance, it differs from other truffle varieties thanks to its black interior with tiny white lodes, as well as its incredible aroma.
This variety of fungi, which grows under the ground along with the roots of some tree species, used to be found in wooded regions with a Mediterranean climate, in countries such as France, Spain and in some Italian regions. Nowadays, however, the black truffles on the market are cultivated, although they are of the same quality as those that used to grow in forest areas.
The black truffle, also known as “the black diamond of the kitchen” or “the black diamond of the forest”, is harvested between November and March or April. It is a very delicate good, and its cultivation and harvesting are considered an art due to the complexity of the process.
As we have already mentioned, the black truffle is found underground in the leaf litter, next to the roots of the trees, and is located with the help of truffle dogs. These animals must have been trained for a long time to detect when these truffles are at their optimum ripening stage.
Because of this and their valuable taste and unique aromas, black truffles fetch a high price on the market. However, despite this, these mushrooms have many applications in gourmet cuisine. For this reason, in this article we will explain how to cook with black truffles and note the benefits of this product, which is so coveted for its spectacular taste and aroma.
What are the uses of the black truffle?
The black truffle is known for its peculiar flavour and aroma, which are irresistible in the world of gastronomy. However, apart from cooking, this fungus is used in other areas, such as natural cosmetics, thanks to its high antioxidant and collagen content.
In this sense, it should be noted that the black truffle is used for skin care thanks to its high dermatological health benefits. In fact, for many professionals in the world of cosmetics, this fungus is considered a kind of natural botox thanks to the high levels of antioxidants it contains and because it stimulates the production of collagen in the skin.
Thanks to this, it is possible to keep the skin smooth, elastic, strong and rejuvenated. For this reason, many cosmetic brands nowadays include black truffle extract (Tuber melanosporum) in the production of face and body creams, as well as in the production of shampoos and bath gels.
How is the truffle used in cooking?
Now we are going to focus on the uses of the black truffle in the world of gourmet cuisine. In fact, as we have already mentioned, it is one of the mythical foods most appreciated by chefs of great reputation in international gastronomy. It has a spectacular taste, very full and delicious with a slightly bitter touch.
It is a very peculiar taste that, for some people, may have some similarities with some nuts, such as hazelnuts or walnuts, without forgetting that, at the same time, it does not resemble that of any other known food. However, when cooking with this food, it is advisable not to overuse it and to use it in small quantities to add certain nuances to dishes, and it is preferable to consume it fresh and not to freeze it in advance. At Trufalia, we have whole black truffles in their juice, so that you can enjoy this authentic delicacy in your dishes all year round.
To give more depth to pasta dishes
So, if you are wondering how to cook with black truffle, you should know that it is used to prepare typical Italian dishes. In fact, this tasty fungus can be added in slices to a pasta dish with different types of sauces and Parmesan for an unparalleled gourmet experience.
Thanks to the flavour of the black truffle, it gives a great depth of flavour to this type of dish, although it can also accompany other types of food. In other words, it can be grated to give a different and tasty touch to soups, salads and cold dishes, taking these dishes to another level in black truffle cooking.
For marinating different types of meat
Black truffle can also be used to marinate different types of meat before cooking, in combination with different types of aromatic herbs and spices. In this sense, the use of this fungus gives it a greater aroma and depth, which makes the dishes taste more elegant and refined.
To prepare sauces as an accompaniment to meat and stews
Finally, we can also highlight that you can cook with black truffle to prepare a mushroom sauce with a full and deep flavour. This sauce can be perfectly used to accompany grilled meats and different types of stews.
Benefits of the black truffle in gastronomy
Apart from its culinary and cosmetic uses, the black truffle also offers numerous health benefits. In fact, this fungus contains a large amount of minerals, proteins, vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to the general wellbeing and to the maintenance of our organism in the best possible conditions.
Likewise, among the benefits of the black truffle in gastronomy, we must also highlight that this exquisite delicacy also has digestive properties, as well as being an excellent source of energy. For these reasons, this mushroom is a totally ideal food for people who must follow a restricted diet or who are trying to lose weight.
