Tuscany, with its beautiful landscapes, is not only the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, but also a fertile land where the truffle is born. In this land of wines and olive groves, the truffle represents a tradition, a passion and an art that is passed down from generation to generation.
The black and white gold of Tuscany:
The truffle, often called “gold of the earth” due to its high value, is a fungus that grows underground near the roots of trees. In Tuscany, two main types of truffles are harvested: the prestigious white truffle, known for its intense and characteristic aroma, and the black truffle, known for its strong flavor and firmer consistency.
Truffle hunting:
Truffle hunters, accompanied by their trained dogs, head out into the woods of Tuscany in search of this precious mushroom. The harvest period varies depending on the type of truffle: from September to December for the white truffle and from November to March for the black truffle. Truffle dogs are essential in the search for truffles because they can smell the aroma without damaging the delicate mycelium. Once the truffle has been identified, the truffle hunter uses a special spade, called a “truffle spade”, to carefully extract the mushroom without damaging the underground structure and thus allowing future growth.
To fully experience this tradition, Carolines Toscana offers its customers an unforgettable experience: truffle hunting with Teo…an experience that will immerse you in a unique adventure in the Tuscan woods. This activity not only offers the opportunity to discover the secrets of truffle hunters and their faithful dogs, but also takes you along hidden paths to discover truffles, surrounded by the splendid, unspoiled nature of the region!
Festa del tartufo (Exhibition and market of the white truffle) takes place during the last three weekends in November in San Miniato alto. The most important exhibition and market in Tuscany; one of the most eagerly-awaited by lovers of the precious tuber. It’s a unique celebration … ..and everything revolves around the tartufo.
Conclusion: who plans his Tuscany vacation in September or October, can be almost certain that a Sagra weekend is there!
RECIPES WITH TRUFFLES:
Fried egg with truffles
Ingredients: Two fresh eggs, olive oil (extra virgin from Tuscany, if possible), salt, truffle.
Put some olive oil in a pan and heat it slowly. Then crack the two eggs and add them to the pan. Cook everything over a low heat, add a pinch of salt and when it is almost cooked, slice the truffle. Cover the pan and serve. Enjoy!
Truffle pasta
Ingredients: Tagliolini made from fresh eggs, butter, truffle.
Cook the tagliolini in salted water, while cooking, melt the butter in a water bath and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the water bath and add about 10-15 g of truffle per portion. I recommend leaving some of the cooking water to avoid “drying out” the egg pasta too much. Fry everything, add a pinch of cheese, then divide between hot plates and slice another truffle with a cutter. Buon appetito!
