Fresh Moscato Truffle (tuber brumale Vitt.)

The White Musk Truffle, scientifically known as Tuber brumale Vitt., is one of the lesser-known truffle varieties, yet no less prized. Appreciated by connoisseurs for its strong, lingering aroma and bold flavor, this truffle is a true treasure for those seeking authentic, intense tastes.

Distinctive Features

• Appearance: Its surface is black or dark brown with small, flattened warts. The inner flesh, or gleba, is dark gray or brown, streaked with distinctive white veins.
• Aroma: The fragrance is intense and penetrating, with notes reminiscent of moss and nutmeg, giving it the name “Musk” truffle.
• Flavor: The taste is bold and slightly peppery, with earthy nuances that make it unique and unmistakable.

Habitat and Harvesting

The White Musk Truffle grows in symbiosis with trees like oaks, hazelnuts, hornbeams, and lindens. It prefers calcareous, clayey, well-drained soils rich in active limestone. Harvesting occurs mainly in winter, from December to March, when the truffle reaches peak maturity.

It is found in various Italian regions, including:

• Umbria
• Marche
• Tuscany
• Emilia-Romagna

Culinary Uses

With its powerful aroma and robust flavor, the White Musk Truffle is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen:

• First Courses: Enhances fresh egg pasta, risottos, and soups, grated or thinly sliced during final cooking stages.
• Main Courses: Pairs beautifully with delicate meats like poultry, eggs, and mild cheeses, adding depth and complexity to dishes.
• Appetizers: Delightful on warm toasted bread with butter or extra virgin olive oil, or in gourmet salads.

Storage Instructions

To preserve its organoleptic properties:

• Short Term: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in unprinted paper towels within an airtight container, replacing the paper daily to absorb moisture.
• Long Term: It can be frozen whole or in truffle butter. Note that freezing may slightly reduce its intense aroma.

Fun Facts

• Rarity: Being lesser-known compared to other varieties, the White Musk Truffle is an excellent choice for those looking to stand out with exclusive ingredients.
• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, as well as B vitamins, making it both a delicious and nutritious choice.
• Distinction from Other Truffles: Often mistaken for the prized Black Truffle (Tuber melanosporum), but it differs in harvest time and organoleptic characteristics.

The Fresh White Musk Truffle (Tuber brumale Vitt.) is a delicacy that deserves to be discovered and appreciated. Its strong, persistent aroma and bold taste make it the ideal ingredient for refined, unmistakably flavorful dishes. Let yourself be captivated by this earthly treasure, enhancing your culinary creations with a touch of authentic Italian excellence.

• Net Weight: This truffle is small in size, typically around the size of a walnut.
• Packaging: Refrigerated styrofoam containers.
• Shelf Life: Best consumed within 10 days of purchase.
• Storage: Refer to detailed instructions on the culinary page.
• Ideal for: Appetizers, pasta dishes, meat or fish main courses, eggs, fillings for handmade pasta, or as an ingredient in dough for pizza, focaccia, flatbreads, and dried pasta.
• Recommended Cooking: Sliced or minced, especially for first courses and fried eggs. Excellent in meat-based main courses.
• Suggested Serving per Plate: 5-10g.
• Availability: September to March.
• Ingredients: White Musk Truffle (Tuber brumale Vitt.).