Element of Fun - Appreciating Truffles
Francesca suggests, “Because this is a celebration of the ‘Hunt’ and victory of finding these rare truffles, ask your guests to include an element of their attire that is reminiscent of the garb one might be found wearing in the forests of Alba – this is sure to enhance the authentic feel of the earth and inspire laughter! If this becomes an annual event, keep track of the gathering by snapping a few shots of the food, the table, and of course, your guests. Create a photo album that is dedicated to truffle hunting and bring it out each year to relive the menu and wines that you enjoyed in years past.
Celebrate truffles by displaying them! I like the idea of having the truffles out and displayed on the countertop or on the table of ‘touch and smell’ experience. You can still utilize them in the cooking, but the aroma that will fill your home by having the truffles out is part of the journey!”
So what are the qualities of truffles? Francesca shares, “Being raised by proud Italian parents, I did however learn that quality is always better than quantity; and in the town of Alba (in the Piemonte region of Italy) this is especially true. For this little town is synonymous with the rare White Truffle that palates yearn for - the truffle that will ensure praise and sheer satiation of all who indulge. Here are some tips to share with your guests:”
| Size: |
2 ounces heavy and 2.5 “ in diameter |
| Shape: |
nubby and potato-like with notches and crannies |
| Touch: |
smooth casing with nodules |
| Color: |
ranging from pale ivory to pale coco on the outside and the inside flesh is a natural toned with veins |
| Scent: |
penetrating, pungent, personified |
| Taste: |
fruity, nutty-spicy and buttery all at once - major flavor without the fat or calories! |
| Avoid: |
cracked broken skin, spongy feeling truffles with little holes, but most importantly, truffles that do not have a strong aroma |
