In this article, we’re talking all about truffles. What do they taste like? How do you cook with them? What about truffle oil? We’re answering these questions and others you might not even know you had.
Let’s learn about white truffles…
What Do White Truffles Taste Like?
Like many other mushroom varietals, white truffles tend to taste earthy and musky, but there’s a warming garlic essence and a funky flavor in white truffles that people adore.
White truffles are strong and aromatic. Because of their rich umami quality, they are highly sought after in fine dining cooking, but often as an oil instead of the whole mushroom. This is simply for economical reasons—fresh white truffles cost a pretty penny.
White Truffle Texture
White truffles are smooth, firm and toothsome. They’re softer than their black truffle counterparts, though in general, both are less spongy than other mushrooms in texture.
While some mushrooms may come across as rubbery, that should not be the case with truffles. In fact, if you bite into a rubbery white truffle, it’s probably past its prime.
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Is Black or White Truffle Better?
Both black and white truffles are prized for their depth and complexity of flavor. There are some differences of opinion as to which is stronger, but many people find white truffles quite robust and garlicky while the fragrance of black truffles may be amplified through cooking as the heat gives it a chance to develop.
Which you use in a recipe comes down to what other ingredients you’re cooking with and what flavors you’re trying to highlight. White truffle may be the funkier of the two, so keep that in mind when you’re looking for dishes to add it to.
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How Do You Eat a Truffle?
Truffle oils are popular ways to consume these unique mushrooms, but cooking with truffles is simple. Just rinse them well to clear all the dirt away, slice them and saute them in a little oil or vegan butter.
Chefs suggest only lightly cooking white truffles as too much heat can easily destroy the nuanced flavors and texture. Truffle oil, on the other hand, can stand up to the heat.
How Long Do White Truffles Last?
White truffles do not have a very long shelf life. Five days may be all you can get out of them after they’re harvested.
If you can get fresh white truffles, you should really use them as quickly as possible. Try using them the same day you buy them so you don’t forget about them.
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How to Cook with Truffle Oil
Cooking with truffle oil often means sprinkling a little on top since it’s such a powerful flavor. Really, all you need is a dash.
In this video, you’ll find out how to make vegan mac and cheese with truffle oil drizzled on top. If you haven’t had truffled vegan mac and cheese, get ready, because it’s going to knock your socks off. You’ll need these ingredients:
- Boxed vegan white mac and cheese
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Garlic
- Saute oil
- Truffle oil
- Nondairy milk
- Vegan butter
- A friend to share all that vegan mac and cheese goodness with
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Here’s a recipe for vegan truffle pizza. You’re cooking with the truffle oil for this one, fusing it with garlic and salt to saute mushrooms you’ll be layering with vegan mozzarella and basil. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful taste of truffles without the hefty price tag.
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Wrap Up
White truffles are potent in flavor with a lovely firm texture. They’re quite expensive, but if you happen to snag some, it’s a good idea to use them as quickly as possible since they keep for only a short amount of time (less than a week). Otherwise, truffle oil is a perfectly tasty substitute that can take greater amounts of heat without risk of damaging the flavors. Top creamy vegan dishes, vegan pizza or some crispy rutabaga fries with truffle oil for a special treat.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!