If you have a passion for food and enjoy trying out a variety of gourmet foods, you might have noticed that truffle oil flavouring or dressing is being used in a number of pizzas, salads, and other dishes that are currently being served in restaurants all over the world. But what exactly is Truffle oil made from? Truffles are a type of mushroom that is extremely rare and expensive, characterised by a pungent scent and a flavour that is intensely savoury and rich in umami. Truffle oil is a beautiful finishing oil that is used to give foods an expensive and gourmet feel. By adding small pieces of truffle to high-quality oils, truffle oil can be created.
It is difficult to cultivate truffles, and it is even more difficult to detect wild truffles. Pigs or truffle hounds are commonly used to sniff truffles because of the difficulty in finding them. This makes them extremely uncommon and expensive; therefore, if you are fortunate enough to acquire them, it is quite likely that you will only be able to acquire a tiny quantity of them. Infusing a high-quality oil with a small bit of truffle is an excellent way to ration out that valuable flavour, drop by drop. The fact that truffles have such a powerful flavour means that you only need a small amount to transform an average dish into a gourmet one.
Because this seasonal delicacy requires careful storage to provide year-round enjoyment, preserved truffles have a rich history. Since the 1980s, synthetic truffle oil has been manufactured.
In general, truffles can be classified into two categories: white truffles, which are typically found in Italy, and black truffles, which are typically found in France. White truffles are more common in Italy. Truffle oil can be made with either of these two ingredients, but both the oils are notably distinct.
White truffle oil can be used for light dishes like pasta, risotto or soups. The delicate flavours with sulphurous notes like garlic or onion, and a meaty, mushroom-like taste add a umami touch to the dishes.
While Black truffle is best to use for dishes like roast meats, fries or mac and cheese. The strong, earthy flavour, with chocolate notes, and a pungency similar to cabbage or other cruciferous vegetables adds a very subtle aftertaste to the dishes that make every dish stand out on its own.
How to make truffle oil at home
Creating your own truffle oil at home ensures authenticity and allows the rich aroma of truffles to shine through. While sourcing truffles may pose a challenge, the process itself is remarkably simple.
Begin by selecting your preferred oil; while olive oil is popular, neutral options like canola or grapeseed oil can enhance the truffle's flavour. Any high-quality oil complements the luxurious essence of truffles.
Warm half a cup of oil over low heat on the stove, ensuring the temperature stays below 130°F to preserve the truffle's natural flavours. Once warmed, remove from heat and add 1 or 2 tablespoons of freshly shaved truffle, allowing it to infuse as the oil cools to room temperature.
For optimal taste, use your truffle oil quickly. Its shelf life is short, lasting only 2 or 3 days at most, so prepare small batches as needed. With this simple method, you can savour the decadent essence of truffles in your homemade oil.