* What is a Truffle *

Truffles are edible fungus delicacies that grow underground.

* Where do Truffles grow*

Truffles are usually associated with the roots of oak trees and can be found at depths of twelve inches.

 * In what regions are truffles found *

Truffles can be found in several places, but the ones indigenous to France and Italy are the most desired.

* How are Truffles harvested *

Pigs primarily detected truffles until farmers discovered that training dogs to sniff them out was easier and more profitable. Canines can be trained not to eat as many of the harvest as their swine counterparts.

 * When are Truffles harvested *

 Truffles appear approximately five years after the planting of their parent tree and can usually be harvested profitably four years after they appear. Different species of Truffles are harvested at select times throughout the year. For example: the fresh White Winter Truffle season runs from September until the end of December, while fresh Black Winter Truffles are harvested from December until March. Summer Truffles are becoming more popular due to their long harvesting season that runs from May to December.

  * What is the difference between Black Truffles and White Truffles *

 The Black Truffle, commonly known as the Perigord Truffle, is the best known Truffle. Black Truffles have a nutty, earthy flavor with a musk-like aroma that becomes stronger when cooked. More frequently used in cooking than served raw, the Black Truffle can be used in a variety of recipes from soups and salads to first courses. 

The White Truffle, commonly known as the Alba Truffle, is scarcer than the Black Truffle. White truffles are generally not cooked and can be served over many dishes. They are usually applied to a dish towards the end of preparation with the use of a Truffle Shaver. Truffle Shavers produce fine slivers of the Truffle, perfect for consumption while raw.

 * How should my Truffles arrive *

 Fresh Truffles are generally sold per pound at market value for the season. It is very common to have to inquire frequently for updated fresh Truffle prices. Some Truffles are sold by the ounce and packaged in jars with a small amount of salt water for preservation. These Truffles are generally the same ones found in tins and are labeled-whole brushed.

* How long will my Whole Brushed Truffles last *

 The shelf life of Truffles in jars and tins is one year without refrigeration.