Tuber magnatum

Overview

A washed and cut Tuber magnatum

Tuber magnatum, commonly known as the white truffle, is a species of truffle native to Southern Europe. It is highly prized for its culinary value and is considered one of the most expensive edible mushrooms in the world.

Description

Close-up of Tuber magnatum showing its marbled interior

The white truffle is characterized by its irregular shape and smooth, pale yellow to ochre outer surface. The interior, or gleba, is marbled with white veins. The size of Tuber magnatum can vary significantly, with some specimens weighing over a kilogram.

Habitat

Tuber magnatum is typically found in symbiotic association with the roots of certain trees, such as oak, hazel, poplar, and beech. It thrives in calcareous soils and is commonly found in regions of Italy, particularly in Piedmont, Tuscany, and Umbria.

Culinary Use

The white truffle is renowned for its intense aroma and flavor, which is often described as earthy, musky, and slightly garlicky. It is used in a variety of dishes, often shaved raw over pasta, risotto, or eggs. Due to its strong flavor, it is typically used sparingly.

Harvesting

The harvesting of Tuber magnatum is traditionally done with the help of trained dogs, which are able to detect the truffle's scent underground. The truffle season usually runs from September to December.

Economic Importance

White truffles are among the most expensive foods in the world, with prices reaching thousands of dollars per kilogram. The high price is due to their rarity, the difficulty of cultivation, and their unique flavor profile.

Related pages

• Truffle
• Fungi
• Mycorrhiza