Randy Chandler
Truffles are a type of edible fungus that grows underground, often near the roots of trees like oak and poplar. They are highly sought-after by chefs and food enthusiasts for their unique and complex flavours and aromas. Truffles have an earthy, nutty, and pungent taste that is often described as unforgettable. When it comes to truffle cheese, the type of cheese used can vary, but it is typically infused with truffle shavings, truffle oil, or both, resulting in a cheese that showcases the distinct flavour of truffles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Bold, earthy, nutty, musky, umami-rich, subtly floral, pungent, garlicky, cheesy, peppery |
| Aroma | Complex, musky, nutty, strong |
| Texture | Real truffles are thinly sliced |
| Use | Used sparingly, pairs well with fatty foods like cheese, cream and oil |
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What You'll Learn
- Truffle cheese is made by adding truffle shavings, truffle oil, or both to any style of cheese
- The flavour of truffle cheese depends on the type of truffle used—black or white
- Black truffles are less expensive and less aromatic than white truffles
- White truffles are the most expensive variety, followed by black truffles
- Truffle cheese is best served simply, with a sliced baguette or plain crackers
Truffle cheese is made by adding truffle shavings, truffle oil, or both to any style of cheese
When making truffle cheese, it is important to consider the quality and type of truffles used. Fresh truffles have a complex aroma and flavour that can vary depending on the variety. For example, white truffles are known to be more expensive and have a stronger aroma, while black truffles are more commonly used and have a deeper, pungent umami flavour. The type of truffle used will impact the overall taste and aroma of the cheese.
In terms of specific truffle cheese varieties, there are several options available. Sottocenere, for instance, is an Italian semi-soft cheese with a strong truffle aroma and a slightly milder truffle flavour. It is made with specks of black truffles and has a blend of spices rubbed into the rind, adding to its unique flavour and aroma. Another option is Moliterno Black Truffle Pecorino, a Sardinian sheep's milk cheese that combines the earthy, nutty, and salty flavours of pecorino with black truffle paste.
Truffle Gouda, a Dutch cheese, is another popular variety of truffle cheese. It is flavoured with little flecks of black truffle, resulting in a less sharp and sweet taste compared to other types of Gouda. This allows the truffle flavour to shine through without being overpowering. Truffle Gouda pairs well with simple accompaniments such as a sliced baguette or plain crackers, enhancing the truffle flavour experience.
The addition of truffles to any style of cheese creates a unique and indulgent flavour experience. The earthy, nutty, and pungent notes of truffles complement the creaminess of cheese, resulting in a decadent and complex flavour profile. Truffle cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, such as grated over eggs, pizza, pasta, or even melted into fondue, adding a luxurious touch to any meal.
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The flavour of truffle cheese depends on the type of truffle used—black or white
Black truffle cheese, such as Truffle Gouda, has a flavour that doesn't overpower the truffles. It is less sharp and sweet than some types of Gouda. Sottocenere, an Italian cheese with specks of black truffles, has a strong truffle aroma followed by a slightly milder truffle flavour. Moliterno Black Truffle Pecorino, a Sardinian sheep's milk cheese, features the earthy, nutty, salty flavour of pecorino layered with black truffle paste.
White truffles, on the other hand, are generally pricier than black truffles, with Italian white truffles being the most expensive. They have a more complex aroma and are used in white truffle-based products as a suitable alternative for cooks. White truffles have a garlicky, cheesy, and peppery flavour profile that pairs well with Italian dishes like pasta and airy risottos.
The flavour compounds in truffles are fat-soluble, which means pairing them with fatty foods like cheese, cream, and oil is the best way to bring out their taste. When serving truffle cheese, keeping the presentation simple allows the truffle flavour to shine. Truffle cheese can be served with a sliced baguette or plain crackers, and a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir can enhance the experience.
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Black truffles are less expensive and less aromatic than white truffles
Truffles are a species of fungi that grow underground, typically near the roots of trees. They are often confused with mushrooms, but they are not the same species. They are considered a gourmet delicacy and are extremely hard to source, making them one of the most expensive foods globally. The two most popular varieties are white and black truffles, with the former being generally pricier.
Black truffles are less expensive than white truffles. For instance, black truffles can be purchased for approximately $50 to $100 per ounce, whereas white truffles can cost as much as $4,000 per pound. White truffles are rarer and can only be found in certain regions, such as Italy and Croatia. They have a strong, earthy flavour and a pungent musk aroma with a hint of garlic. On the other hand, black truffles are more commonly found in various countries and have a milder flavour. They are also more robust and "woodsy", with an earthy and deep flavour.
The price difference between black and white truffles can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, white truffles are harder to cultivate and have a shorter season. Their structure makes them more vulnerable to harsh weather conditions, which can easily destroy their fragile outer shell. In contrast, black truffles have been successfully grown outside their natural environments, making them more readily available.
Additionally, the exclusivity and short shelf-life of truffles contribute to their high cost. They are only available twice a year and have a complex flavour that can be easily overwhelmed if not used sparingly. As such, they are typically added to mild recipes, such as cream sauces and potato-based dishes, to let their unique taste shine. They are also used as a garnish or finishing touch to enhance the aroma and flavour of a dish without being cooked, such as on pasta, salad, or popcorn.
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White truffles are the most expensive variety, followed by black truffles
Truffles are the edible spores that grow on an underground fungus in the family Tuberaceae. They are considered a gourmet delicacy by many in the culinary world and are extremely hard to source, making them one of the most expensive foods globally. The most expensive truffles are the white truffles, which can sell for as much as $4,000 per pound. White truffles, also known as Alba Madonna, are found primarily in Italy, specifically in the Piedmont region of northern Italy and in parts of Greece. They have a powerful taste and aroma, with notes of oak, nuts, and sweet soil. Because they are so rare and delicate, they are typically used fresh as a finishing touch rather than in cooking. A small amount of white truffle, around 5 to 15 grams, is enough to season a dish and elevate it with their exquisite flavour.
White truffles are also challenging to cultivate, which contributes to their high price. Unlike black truffles, which can be cultivated, white truffles must be located using trained dogs or pigs, making them even more elusive and costly. The difficulty in growing and sourcing white truffles, along with their potent flavour and aroma, places them at the top of the truffle price hierarchy.
Following white truffles in terms of expense are black truffles, which are generally less expensive and more attainable for the average home cook. Black truffles, also known as French black truffles or Périgord truffles, are found in the Périgord region of France. They exhibit notes of chocolate, deep musk, earth, oak, and nuts. While black truffles possess a complex flavour profile, they require larger quantities to fully develop their flavour in a dish compared to white truffles. The ability to use larger amounts without breaking the bank makes black truffles a popular choice for chefs and home cooks alike.
The price of truffles, regardless of variety, is subject to significant fluctuations throughout the year. Factors such as the location of collection, the condition of the truffles, and the season can influence their cost. For example, the summer truffle, a variety of black truffle, is generally less expensive and less potent, as it is cultivated globally and is common during the summer season. Nevertheless, black truffles remain a luxurious ingredient, often used to finish a dish or incorporated into sauces, compound butters, or risottos.
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Truffle cheese is best served simply, with a sliced baguette or plain crackers
Truffle cheese is any type of cheese that has been flavoured with truffles, a culinary fungus that grows underground. Truffles have an earthy, pungent, nutty, and umami-rich flavour that is often described as unforgettable. The strong aroma and flavour of truffles mean that a little goes a long way, and they are best served simply.
When it comes to truffle cheese, the truffle flavour is the star of the show and should be allowed to shine. Truffle cheese is best served with a simple sliced baguette or plain crackers. This way, the truffle flavour takes centre stage and is not overpowered by other ingredients.
The simplicity of a sliced baguette or plain crackers provides the perfect canvas for the complex and enticing flavours and aromas of truffle cheese. The earthy, nutty, and umami notes of the truffle cheese can be fully appreciated when served in this minimalistic way.
In addition to the classic sliced baguette or plain crackers, truffle cheese can also be enjoyed in a variety of other dishes. Semi-soft and hard truffle cheeses can be grated over eggs, pizza, pasta, or even mac 'n' cheese. Truffle cheese can also be used in grilled cheese sandwiches, risotto, or melted into a fondue for a touch of indulgent elegance.
When serving truffle cheese, it is important to keep in mind that a little goes a long way. The intense flavour of truffles means that a small amount is all that is needed to elevate a dish. Whether served simply with a sliced baguette or incorporated into a recipe, truffle cheese is sure to impress and delight.
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Frequently asked questions
Truffle cheese is any type of cheese that has been flavoured with truffles, a culinary fungus that grows underground. While each type of truffle has its own unique flavour profile and aroma, all share a bold, earthy taste. Truffle cheese can be made with truffle shavings, truffle oil, or both.
Examples of truffle cheese include Sottocenere, a semi-soft Italian cheese with a strong truffle aroma and a slightly milder truffle flavour, and Moliterno Black Truffle Pecorino, a Sardinian sheep's milk cheese with an earthy, nutty, salty flavour layered with black truffle paste. Another example is Truffle Gouda, a Dutch Gouda flavoured with little flecks of black truffle.
When serving truffle cheese, keep the presentation simple so that the truffle flavour can be the star of the dish. Truffle cheese can be served with a sliced baguette or plain crackers, and paired with a glass of sparkling wine or pinot noir. Semi-soft and hard truffle cheeses can also be grated over eggs, pizza, pasta, or even mac 'n' cheese.
