Visiting the Istrian peninsula or exploring the culinary world, tasting dishes with Istrian truffles can be an unforgettable experience
Truffles are a type of mushroom that grow underground in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees, usually oak, hazel and beech. These subterranean mushrooms are highly prized in the culinary world for their intense aroma and flavor, which is often described as earthy, musky, and sometimes even garlicky.
There are several types of truffles, the most famous of which are:
White truffle; The white truffle is considered the most luxurious truffle and is usually harvested in late autumn and early winter. White truffles have a delicate garlic aroma and are often sliced or grated over dishes such as pasta, risotto and eggs to enhance their flavor.
The Istrian truffle, also known as the Istrian white truffle (Tuber magnatum pico), is a type of white truffle found on the Istrian peninsula, which includes parts of Croatia, Slovenia and Italy. These truffles are highly prized for their aromatic and culinary qualities, similar to the famous white truffles from the Piedmont region of Italy.
Black truffle: Black truffle has a strong, earthy aroma and is used in a variety of dishes, including sauces, pâtés, and even chocolates.
Summer truffle; These truffles are harvested during the summer months and are cheaper than winter truffles. They have a milder smell and taste and are often used in salads, omelets or as a garnish.
Truffle hunting is traditionally carried out using specially trained dogs or pigs, since these animals have a keen sense of smell that allows them to find truffles underground. Once found, truffles are carefully harvested, cleaned and prepared for culinary use.
Truffles are considered a delicacy and are used sparingly due to their high price. They are usually served in small quantities because their intense flavor can easily overpower the dish. Truffle products, such as truffle oil, truffle salt and truffle sauces, are also available to add truffle flavor to a variety of dishes.
Sustainable picking of Istrian truffles is essential for the protection of these valuable mushrooms and their ecosystem. Efforts are being made to ensure that truffle hunting is conducted responsibly and that truffle populations remain stable.
Istrian truffles are a valued ingredient in domestic and international cuisine, and are celebrated for their unique aroma and taste.
