What are summer truffles?

Summer truffles (tuber aestivum) or burgundy truffles (tuber uncinatum) are species of truffles found in most European countries. They grow below ground in open woodlands—with bare areas around the base of the tree (called brule or burnt area) as good indicators of their presence. Largest of the truffle varieties, summer truffles open the truffle season with a harvest time that stretches from May to August. 

With a brown to black outer skin covered in big, bumpy warts, summer truffles sure resemble black winter truffles. But while they carry an intense aroma that is reminiscent of hazelnuts, they are far more subtle than their winter counterpart. In terms of flavor, it is nowhere near potent, making them perfect for use as garnish.

How to make the most of them?

Summer truffles’ unique versatility and approachable flavor make them an ideal complement to a variety of dishes. Their texture makes a lively addition to salads, vegetables, and grilled and roasted meats like chicken and steak. When it comes to pairing, they work really well with light-bodied vinegars, mascarpone, citrus, and aged hard cheeses, as well as caviar, fois gras, lobster, and creamy pasta dishes. If you’re keen to intensify the flavor, just add a dash of white truffle oil. Or perhaps you want a luxurious way of eating it? Just add shavings. Summer truffles are so good, it can elevate practically any dish.

Additionally, summer truffles can also come as preserved truffle products, often in the form of oils, salts, and honey. If you have some fresh ones, though, that you’re saving for fresh eating, you can make them last by keeping them lightly wrapped in paper towels. This helps absorb the moisture, ultimately preventing mold. If mold develops (typically after 5 days of refrigeration), however, remove the mold the same way you would on cheese products, and immediately freeze the truffle for up to a year.

Get cookin’.

With a flavor that explodes on the tastebuds and an aroma that is truly intoxicating, summer truffles make a perfect ingredient to bring indulgence to your next dish. Check out these easy-to-follow truffle recipes for a solid start. Or if you’re ready to get cooking, summer truffles are available through our website or by calling 877-455-1875. Get in touch with us today to inquire about prices.

The post How to Make the Most of Summer Truffles appeared first on Susan Alexander Truffles.

There are many elements that distinguish one truffle from the next, from the origins, to their colour, texture, aroma, and depth of flavour. You will no doubt develop a favourite after taste testing. Below is a quick guide to the unique characteristics of different truffle varieties.

Black and white Italian truffles

Italian truffles are best known for being the most aromatic of the truffle species. They have a wrinkly skin and vary in size between a walnut to an orange. White truffles are often served shaved or sliced over already cooked food in order to encourage their flavour. Whilst black truffles are generally heated and cooked within the dish to utilise their flavour best.

Black and white summer truffles

Summer truffles are distinguished by being the largest of the truffle varieties and are found across Europe. They have a black to brown outer skin and rough pyramidal shaped ‘warts’. The aroma, you’ll find, is intense and reminiscent of hazelnuts. These are a highly coveted variety of truffle and hugely popular.

Asian truffles

Asian truffles present with a hard and grainy skin and are black on the inside. However, despite their rough exterior appearance, they have a mild and captivating taste. They are less pungent than the European truffles, and are perfect for those who do prefer the milder truffle flavour.

Australian truffles

Australian truffles have a distinctive black and white marbling inside and are very firm to touch. They also possess a strong aroma and a strong flavour. The truffle industry in Australia and in New Zealand is expanding each year, with more and more successful harvests reported.

Oregon truffles

Oregon truffles are knobbly and gnarled, however once you get up close you’ll notice their delicious buttery and herbal aroma. In fact, they are so aromatic that they release oil at their peak. Oregon truffles exhibit world-class flavours and are highly sought-after in their local area as well as around the world.

Some truffle experts are able to distinguish the variety of truffle just from the aroma presented to them. However, the everyday person isn’t expected to be able to determine the type just from the aroma. By combining the appearance, texture and knowledge of where the truffle is from, you too can easily impress your guests with truffle trivia. And then of course go on to enjoy the delicious delicacy that are truffles!

Ready to indulge in a wonderful truffle experience? You can visit Susan Alexander Truffles to get started.

The post Around the World with Truffle Varieties – A Guide for Truffle Lovers appeared first on Susan Alexander Truffles.