Forktionary

Black Truffle

Tuber melanosporum Fungi/Gourmet Ingredient

Black Truffle Fungi/Gourmet Ingredient

At a Glance

  • Category Fungi/Gourmet Ingredient

The Forktionary Angle

"The enigmatic 'black diamond' that transforms a simple dish into an olfactory and gustatory experience with just a whisper of its essence."

Definition

A highly prized subterranean fungus known for its intense, earthy, and musky aroma and flavor, used sparingly to elevate gourmet dishes.

Aroma Compounds Over 50 volatile compounds contributing to unique scent
Market Value Can exceed $1,000-$2,000 per pound
Seasonality (Winter) Primarily harvested Dec-Mar in Europe

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Black Truffle are:

Earthy Musky Garlicky Umami Nutty

Chef’s Secret

Store fresh truffles with eggs or rice in an airtight container in the fridge; their potent aroma will subtly infuse the other ingredients, making them truffle-scented.

Best Substitutes

Truffle Oil

for flavor, not texture
Ratio 1:1

Porcini Mushrooms

less intense
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Seek firm, aromatic truffles. Avoid soft spots or mold. Source from reputable vendors and inquire about origin.

Culinary Pairings

Pasta risotto eggs potatoes beef cheese butter olive oil Champagne

Recipes Using Black Truffle

America's Greatest Gourmet Burgers image 103
Dinner Party 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Cuisine

America's Greatest Gourmet Burgers

Recreate Curtis Stone's incredible gourmet burger recipe, inspired by his popular TV show! This elevated take on the American classic, as seen in episode 161 of Ava's Menu, is bursting with flavor. We've tweaked the recipe to perfection, making it easy to follow for delicious results at home. Get ready for juicy patties, gourmet toppings, and an unforgettable burger experience!

See Complete Recipe