Truffles are difficult to find and for this reason they are very expensive. These culinary treasures grow underground and finding them requires careful research and the nose of a well-trained truffle hunter.
Black truffles grow in France, Greece and Italy. They also grow in certain areas in North Africa where the soil is moist and warm soil after the rainy season.
Truffles will also flourish beneath the soil in Northern California. Californian truffles are usually grubbed for under fir trees from the months of June to September.
Hunting with trained dogs is key to a successful pursuit for truffles. Pigs were the original companions of truffle hunters. However, overtime, they were replaced by dogs because pigs eat every truffle they can find. Dogs dislike truffles, so they’re easier to train to hunt for these fungi without eating them. Furthermore, dogs are stronger and fitter and so are more suited to hunting than pigs.
There are at least five hints that can tell you where and how to start truffle hunting. These clues are helpful irrespective of the country or truffle orchard you’re in.
Big trees – Truffles can be found close to the roots of big trees. The shade of beech, fir or oak tree is an ideal breeding ground for truffles. Truffles would rarely grow a hundred feet away from their host trees.
Damp soil – Truffles grow perfectly in moist soil. You can always expect a patch of truffles to appear two weeks after a heavy rain.
Rodents – Chipmunks and rodents are agents of truffle propagation. Their fresh diggings in the woods will definitely reveal truffles, once you and your dog start looking.
Burnt areas – The exact places where truffles grow appear to be burnt and unfit for vegetation. This is caused by the hazardous organic compounds emitted by truffles as they grow.
Pungent scent – Truffles are known for their strong and unique scent. Only dogs and pigs can identify this scent.
Truffles are great delicacies and highly prized. Happy hunting!
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