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What is a truffle? Why are they so coveted and expensive? What does anyone even do with a truffle once they have it? Don't worry, these are common questions for our native Pacific Northwest truffles. Konifir Truffle Co will help you navigate these questions and more. All you need to do is scroll further and explore!
What is a Truffle?
Tuber Oregonense (Winter White, top) and Tuber Gibbosum (Spring White, bottom)
A truffle is the spore-bearing fruit of a fungus. The actual fungal organism is a perennial network of underground mycelium (fungal filaments dispersed in the soil). Unlike mushrooms, truffles develop entirely underground. Whereas mushrooms typically disperse their spores in the wind, truffles need the help of animals to spread their spores. Most truffles are consumed by forest animals that dig them up for food. It is no surprise that truffles have evolved to emit aromas that appeal to animals, often including humans. When mature, truffles produce these odor signals to effectively say “eat me!” the aromas develop only when at least some spores are mature, then intensify as more and more spores mature. Thus an animal is not likely to detect a specimen before many of its spores are ready, and it is not likely to miss a specimen in which all the spores are ready.
From Field Guide to North American Truffles, Authors Matt Trappe, Frank Evans, and James Trappe, pages 2-4
Oregon White Truffle
The Oregon White Truffle actually has a couple species that fall under the same title. Tuber Oregonense (Winter White Truffle) and Tuber Gibbosum (Spring White Truffle). They both have a similar aroma profile and are highly sought after. The Winter White Truffle is often described as having a more intense aroma than the Spring White Truffle, but both are equally exquisite in quality and complexity.
Aroma Profile:
- Garlic
- Cheese
- Spices
- Petrol
- Umami
- Pungent/Complex (other undefined essences)
Washington Black Truffle
The Washington Black Truffle, otherwise known as the Oregon Black Truffle, is a special species of truffle. Unlike a traditional "Tuber" species, the Washington Black Truffle is Leucangium carthusianum. Washington Black Truffles are not as common as Oregon White Truffles and have a much different aroma profile. The aromas develop and change as the truffles mature. Some of the aromas below become stronger or weaker depending on what stage of development the Washington Black Truffle is in.
Aroma Profile:
- Fruity
- Pineapple
- Apple
- Banana
- Chocolate
- Cheese
- Pungent/Complex (Other undefined essences)
Genea Harknessii (Harkie) Truffle
Genea Harknessii (Harkie), otherwise known as the Black Geode Truffle, is a very "unappreciated" truffle that is also not as common as the Oregon White Truffle. Genea Harknessii is generally not used directly for culinary uses since it is essentially a "hollow" truffle and does not afford much substance for visual appeal on dishes. Alternatively, this truffle is excellent for infusions and has a very similar aroma profile to Oregon White Truffles.
Aroma Profile:
- Garlic
- Cheese
- Spices
- Petrol
- Umami
- Pungent/Complex (Other undefined essences)
Summer Pink Truffle
The Summer Pink Truffle is a relatively new truffle discovery and is primarily found during the summer months. They are much rarer to locate and have a slightly different aroma profile than their counterparts, the Washington Black Truffles. Summer Pink Truffles do not have the standard "pungent" aroma, but instead have a more "fruity" dominant profile.
Aroma Profile:
- Fruity
- Cherry
- Amaretto
- Apple
Come Hunt With Us Series
Every month we will feature a short 2-4 minute educational video of what truffle hunting looks like. The "Come Hunt with Us" series will be posted on our Facebook page, so be sure to follow us! You will learn about truffle dog behavior when alerting to scent. How wind direction plays a part in how you direct your dog at the start of a hunt. You'll also learn about temperature and other environmental factors that play into the success or failure of the hunt!
How to use Truffles and
Infused Oils
Oregon White Truffle & Oil Ideas
- Shaved Oregon White Truffles over Salmon Lox Bagel (our favorite!)
- Shaved Oregon White Truffles over simple pasta. Maybe include an alfredo sauce and spinkle with parmesan or favorite cheese.
- Drizzle Oregon White Truffle oil generously over popcorn
- Use Oregon White Truffle oil as a dipping sauce!
- Use with cheese, eggs, meats and most savory dishes.
- Use Oregon White Truffle oil as a finishing oil on anything you desire! Remember, truffle oil is not only used to add aromas, but also used to enhance the aroma profile of the food already in the dish. Truffles are unique in this property. Experiment!
Washington Black & Oil Ideas
- Grated Washington Black Truffle in infused Ice Cream (our favorite!)
- Shaved Washington Black Truffle over shellfish
- Drizzle Washington Black Truffle oil over salads, complimenting other fruits such as sliced apples
- Use similarly as Oregon whites but can be additionally used with sweet dishes such as creamers, custards and all sorts of deserts.
- Use Washington Black Truffle oil as a finishing oil on anything you desire! Remember, truffle oil is not only used to add aromas, but also used to enhance the aroma profile of the food already in the dish. Truffles are unique in this property. Experiment!
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources for learning more about truffles and ideas for uses and recipes:​
North American Truffling Society
