"The Jewel in the Kitchen": What Are Truffles and Why Do They Cost So Much?

Truffles are a part of the world of gourmet foods. The edible spores that grow on an underground fungus are called truffles. This may not sound particularly tasty, and truffles don't look particularly appealing—they resemble rocks or black potatoes. Truffles, however, are highly prized in fine dining because of their earthy, meaty, and musky flavor. According to Smithsonian Magazine, truffles have only been found in Europe for centuries, growing wild in regions like France, Italy, and Spain. But thanks to cultivation techniques that have made it possible for plantations to be established in places like the United States, China, Greece, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, and Argentina, truffle production has experienced an amazing global expansion over the past 50 years.The fragrance of truffles is potent and rich. Truffles have an earthy, nutty, and slightly savoury flavour with hints of oak. Truffle oil is another product made from these truffles; it is created by combining truffles with extra virgin olive oil. This oil is used as a finishing touch for mashed potatoes, deviled eggs, pasta dishes, and truffle fries.