A truffle, also known as a feijau-truffle, is an underground tuber containing a single flower, which flowers during the autumn season. The word comes from French and means 'one flower' a pun on the word truffle. However, the actual flowers can be large, in the range of five to seven centimeters, and can occur singly or in pairs. These succulents bear no fruit but instead are covered with a white powdery substance, which is harvested by hand and used as an ingredient for food and wine.
A truffle, also known as a feijau-truffle, is an underground tuber containing a single flower that flowers during the fall season. Along with the name, this species of fungi is also known as Tuber or Botrytis, which is where the name comes from. In fact, the name is quite appropriate as the fungus is actually a form of mold. In addition to Tuber, other species of fungi are also classed as black truffle salt, including Geopora, Peziza, Choiromyces, and more than a hundred others. In the United States, a white-colored powder is commonly used in soups and stews to enhance their flavor and texture, however, the real star attraction is the dark-colored sugary interior which can be sprinkled over baked potatoes or carrots for a delicious treat. This "sour" element of truffle salt has been found to contain a high amount of Vitamin B2 and iron.
Truffles are not just a seasonal treat anymore they are now considered a delicacy around the world. In fact, truffles have been the choice of top chefs and foodies for over two thousand years! Truffles are not only made for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, or family celebrations but also can be given as gifts. The name truffle has also become synonymous with high quality and luxury.
These succulent morsels come in a wide range of colors and tastes, but the most popular is usually that of a dark, almost black, powdery color which is slightly sticky and sugary. There are a few different varieties as well; Swiss truffles, French truffles, Italian truffle, and Costa Rica truffle to name a few. They are usually eaten cold from a silver tray, although some people like to sprinkle them on the foods they are baking as well. It is best to store truffles in a cool, dark place and not put them into warm dishes or any open-air area, however, if they do end up getting warm, let them sit in the refrigerator for about ten minutes before eating! Since they are naturally slimy, it is not necessary to wrap them in the paper.
As with many foods that are high in fat content, truffles should be eaten in moderation. Although this is not a diet, more moderate portions of truffle in the diet can actually help in losing weight since it is a natural fat burner. If you are not fond of eating sweets, then the addition of truffle salt to your meals can have a very good nutritional aspect to it as well. Just be sure to watch how much you eat because over-consumption can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure, for instance.
Another great aspect about truffles is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. You can easily purchase them at your local drugstore or supermarket and they are widely available online too! In fact, you can buy a pound or two for just a few dollars, far less than you will spend on one of those really expensive, gourmet truffles. So go ahead and indulge yourself today by shopping for truffles! Who knows, you might be hooked forever!
Speaking of hooked, don't forget that truffle salt is also known as "truffle bark". So if you do like to see those little salt and pepper shakers on the tables at fancy restaurants, then stop by your local liquor store and look through the chocolate aisle. You will surely be able to find a nice pound or two of truffle salt to go with that next bite of dessert. If you are feeling particularly brave, then you might even consider getting those gorgeous gourmet truffle recipes that will melt in your mouth! Just remember though, you do need to be aware that not all recipes are created equal and so it is important to do your homework before buying or making truffle salt.
When shopping for truffle salt, you will find that there are many different brands available as well as many different varieties in terms of color and taste. Some companies add other ingredients to their truffle salts such as nuts and herbs. In general, the more additives a company adds, the more expensive it is. It is best to choose a company that has been in business for a few years, has good customer reviews as well as offering a wide variety of great-tasting salts. So go shopping today, get that great gift that will wow your loved ones, and set them up for a treat today!
