What is Truffle Oil?

Truffle oil was once considered an exotic ingredient and used mainly by professional chefs. Today, it has become a common item in kitchens worldwide and comes in several varieties. Truffle oil comes highly recommended because it adds flavor and a great aroma to meals. It is also one of the healthier oils on the market today.

What is Truffle Oil Made of?

Truffle oil is essentially oil that has been infused with the taste and smell of truffles. Truffles are natural growths that are found mostly near trees. They are fungi which bear resemblance to mushrooms. Because they are difficult to harvest, pigs and trained dogs are used to find them. There are many kinds of truffles and therefore many types of truffle oils.

The most popular kinds of truffle oils are black, white, burgundy, garlic and Hungarian. Black truffle oil is made from French black truffles, a popular item on most 5-star eateries. White truffle oil is sourced from Italian truffles, which are known for having a taste and scent similar to garlic. Burgundy truffle oil gives food a cornmeal flavor, while Hungarian truffle oil is much sweeter in taste.

What is Truffle Oil Used For?

Cooks use truffle oil to inject some flavor into mild-tasting foods. You can also use this oil as dressings for salads, fish, scampi, meats, pastas and pizzas. Combine truffle oil with a little olive oil, mustard, vinegar and lemon juice to make vinaigrette. Truffle oil can bring out the flavor of truffles, and goes well with eggs, mushrooms and baked potato chips. It is often sprinkled on tender meats like fillet mignon that are sensitive to seasoning.

What is Truffle Oil’s Nutritional Value?

Truffle oil is believed to be healthier because it is based on olive oil. Olive oil is perhaps the healthiest cooking oil you can eat because it contains heart-friendly, unsaturated fats. Genuine truffle oil is also cold-pressed, which means it is not treated with potentially harmful chemicals.

Although truffles are primarily used to infuse flavor and scent into the oil, they too leave traces of important nutrients. Truffles are high in fiber, protein, amino acids and iron to name a few. Be aware that not all oils are made with real truffles. For maximum nutrients, purchase genuine truffle oil from reputable vendors.

What is Truffle Oil’s Effect on Your Health?

In addition to giving dishes a flavor boost, genuine truffle oil is healthy for your heart. Unsaturated fats can reduce cholesterol and delay the onset of cardiovascular conditions. Truffle oil also has very few calories and can keep blood sugar even for diabetes patients.

How to Make Truffle Oil

Experts recommend that you purchase truffle oil instead of making it at home. This is because homemade oil can develop botulism. Botulism is bacterial growth that is caused by lids and jars that have not been sterilized correctly.

Truffle oil has been a chef favorite for many years. It adds rich flavor and a pleasant aroma to any dish. When served with truffles, it can provide an assortment of vitamins and minerals. Opt for genuine truffle oil from a trusted vendor.