What are truffles?
Truffles are edible spores, or fruiting bodies, that grow from certain varieties of underground fungi. A member of the Tuberaceae genus, they are often confused with mushrooms. However, the key difference between truffles and mushrooms is that mushrooms grow above ground, while truffles grow below. Traditionally, pigs were used to find truffles growing underground, due to their natural ability to detect their aroma from above. Nowadays, dogs are more commonly employed for this task, as they are less keen on the flavor of truffles than pigs, and so less likely to eat what they find!
Truffles have long been a delicacy throughout Southern Europe, particularly in French, Spanish, and Italian cuisine. In addition, truffles are now cultivated in North America, Australia, and New Zealand, due to the increasing demand for them around the world.
What do truffles taste like?
Truffles are famous for their earthy, umami flavors and potent aroma. Both unique and versatile, they’re used in a whole host of dishes from desserts and appetizers, to main courses. In their raw form, they are often shaved and sprinkled on top of meals to enhance the flavor. The best way to cook them is to add them to dishes towards the end of the cooking process. Lightly cooking truffles ensures that they’re flavor potential is maximized within the meal.
Flavors that Pair with Truffles
Herbs, such as thyme, parsley, rosemary, oregano, and basil, pair splendidly with truffles. What’s more, their unique flavor also means they are used to make foods such as cheese, olive oil, pasta sauces, and meat dishes.
Health Benefits of Truffles
Both the white and black truffle varieties are naturally rich in antioxidants, which have been linked to reducing the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. They’re also a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins.
How to Use La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored with White Truffle
Nothing beats the extraordinary flavor and mesmerizing aroma of our La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored with White Truffle. Use it to enrich white pasta and pizzas, red meats, bruschettas, potatoes, and polenta. It also works a treat in classic dishes such as risotto, quiche, salads, cheese and veggie bakes, and recipes with orzo. It’s no wonder that top chefs have been using truffle olive oil infusions to take gourmet dishes to the next level. So why not harness the flavor potential of truffle-flavored olive oil in your cooking with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored with White Truffle? It’s an easy way to make restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own home.
Recipes with Truffle Oil
Unlock a whole new world of flavor in your roast vegetable recipes by using La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil Flavored with White Truffle. This Grilled Vegetables with Truffle Oil Recipe is a great place to start!
Similarly, put your own unique spin on garlic mushrooms by adding our truffle-flavored olive oil to the equation. Not sure how? This quick and easy recipe Garlic Mushrooms with Truffle Oil recipe is your path to a delicious meal in minutes.
Unique Olive Oil Blends
If you’re looking to add an extra dimension to your cooking, how about experimenting with new olive oil blends? La Española’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Avocado Oil is a great place to start. A great source of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, it’s a healthy way to boost the flavor of your culinary creations. Add it to salads and savor its creamy texture and enticing aroma. Alternatively, you can also add a unique flavor twist to tried and true family favorites such as stir-fries, casseroles, and soups.