It differs from black truffle in color, tasteand smell (which is much more intense). It should be consumed raw and it is excellent for cheese and meats.
“His Majesty” Alba White Truffle
Among white truffles, whose scientific name is Tuber magnatum pico, the best known is certainly the white truffle of Alba, from the Piedmont region.
It is hunted during autumn, in the Langhe woods and October is the best ripening period, but truffle hunters keep searching till the end of December.
Trained truffle hunting dogs usually work at night because their smell is more sensitive. Also, you can avoid unauthorized truffle hunters. White truffle is not only different from the black one in color, but also in taste (delicious) and smell (more intense). It is considered the most valuable truffle. it costs more because of its rarity. Indeed, it is considered the diamond of the kitchen and there is no chef in the world who does not adore it.
Remember that Alba white truffle must be consumed raw. The Michelin-starred chefs have created several recipes where this mushroom is the star. It can enhance the taste of cheese and meats.
How do you recognize it?
The exterior is smooth and white in color, in contrast to the yellowish pulp and veining of different colors. To mushroom and develop it needs soils with particular climatic conditions; the soil must be soft and humid for most of the year, rich in calcium and with good air circulation. All the conditions listed before are found in the regions of Langhe, Monferrato and Roero, in Piedmont.
Alba truffle fair
The town of Alba annually organizes the International White Truffle Fair to celebrate the precious white truffleIt takes place between October and December. At the fair you can also find the Alba White Truffle World Market, where you can buy the best truffles. Another event is the Alba Truffle Show, a space where great chefs give their best during the cooking shows.
But there are also other ventures such as: the sensory analysis of truffle, the wine tasting experience, the twinning with other territories of gastronomic excellence and meetings with guests and debates.
There is also a space dedicated to children, a special pavilion for children and families, the Alba Truffle Bimbi. There are educational games handcrafted in wood and natural materials. A playground where you can get to know Langhe region and its hills, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
