White truffles are a member of the mushroom family. They grow underground near trees,are extremely fragrant and prized for there transformative role in cooking. Most years truffles are extraordinarily expensive---last year $4,000 a pound, however this year they have come down in price--$1200 a pound making them a menu option--albeit a pricey one. Truffles are thought to have gotten their name from the Latin term for tuber which means lump. The white truffle or "alba modonna" comes from the Langhe region in Piedmont in Northern Italy. The hunt for the prized truffle is usually carried out by a mushroom forager and a truffle dog or truffle pig. Pigs are more eager to find the prizes, but it can be difficult to keep the pig from devouring the truffle. Only sows are used - the smell of Italian white truffles contains pheromones that are attractive to female pigs, but not to boars. There has been much debate throughout history if that particular pheromone can create a sexual response in humans and although not scientifically proven Truffles are thought to be the ingredient for lovers. What cannot be denied is that the rich meaty flavor of truffles does amazing things to most vegetable dishes especially ones with cream. Look for Creamy Risotto with proscuitto, butternut squash, poached egg and, of course, shaved white truffle on my current Vin Antico menu.
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