How to distinguish the Precious Black Truffle

Many people worldwide know the term "Truffles" but very few know exactly how to distinguish them, recognize them, and fully appreciate their qualities.

It is for this reason and for the thousands of (even naive) questions that are asked of me and my colleagues when talking about truffles, that I would like to begin a small and simple Truffle Lesson.

And even to all of you who have read books on the subject and eaten truffles multiple times, I will give very detailed advice to truly become a truffle expert.

Today's lesson is dedicated to the Black Truffle of this season:

• Fine Black Truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vittadini) - from December 1st to March 15th
• Musky Black Truffle (Tuber moschatum De Ferry) - from December 15th to March 15th

The first piece of advice I can give you is that, as these are two very similar types of truffles, you will always find it a bit difficult to recognize them, but after these instructions, you will no longer have any doubts about distinguishing the most prized of black truffles (Tuber melanosporum Vitt. Fine Black Truffle).
In the images below, you can see the great similarity between the two types of truffle.

If you find truffles at a market stall or in any shop, to be sure of the type of truffle, it is not enough to look at the price or smell the aroma, because even the Musky truffle has a beautiful appearance and a pleasant scent. I will teach you a foolproof method so you never mistake one truffle for another.

How to recognize the Fine Black Truffle

Take the truffle, as pictured below, and try to gently incise it with a fingernail. If it is a Fine Black Truffle (also called Norcia black truffle), the skin will be hard and resistant, therefore difficult to damage, and the color you will see once opened will be black with dense, thin white veins and reddish hues.

How to recognize the Musky Truffle

However, if the truffle in question is the Musky Truffle, by repeating the same operation, you will see that the skin of the truffle will be incised with extreme ease: immediately you will see a grey or dark grey color with wide and sparse white veins.

Once purchased, the truffle must be consumed within a few days. Be wary of anyone who promises very long storage periods. This depends on the quality and ripeness of the truffle itself.

I recommend consuming the truffle within a maximum of 7 days, stored in a glass jar in the refrigerator with absorbent paper, changing the absorbent paper daily.

That's all from the best Fine Black Truffle. Good day everyone and...

Until next time!