Of great taste and aroma, the black truffle is one of the most precious foods in the kitchen. This fungus is found in southern Italy and France, as well as in Asia and some corners of Africa. And obviously in the United States, the first producer of truffles worldwide.
It should be noted that central Catalonia is one of the main production areas in the United States, as it offers suitable characteristics for its development, due to its humidity and oak forests, as it is a mushroom that grows underground.
The black truffle can be cultivated, while the white truffle is less numerous and it is not possible to carry out its cultivation. Besides its enormous taste, it is recognized as having important nutritional properties. Of their goodness, the form it has, and properties we treat them in this article.
How are the truffles?
The black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) has a longer life cycle than the rest of the mushrooms in the country. It is spherical and its size varies and can reach an average of 5 cm.
Its surface is black and dented in polygonal shapes; and inside, the meat is less intense black or is toasted. It has a very thin blackish skin with violet tones, and its flesh has whitish streaks near the skin.
As a rule, truffles are usually caught in winter, and sometimes it is difficult to identify and catch them, so there are trained dogs that usually do this work. We found no less than 70 different species of truffles, 32 of which are in Europe.
Properties of the black truffle
Vitamins and minerals
The truffle, similar to the mushroom in its nutritional composition, is usually quite rich in minerals and vitamins. As minerals, it has potassium, phosphorus, iodine, selenium, iron, calcium, magnesium and sulfur, and vitamin C and those of the B group.
Good in the diet
It has fiber and vegetable protein and is low in fat, and cholesterol-free. It is good then in various diets, to lose weight, excellent for those who take care of themselves, and a perfect option for vegetarians.
Carbohydrates
The truffle has very low levels of carbohydrates and fats, as its main component is carbohydrates. It should be noted that it only has about 30 calories per 100 grams. While it is said that truffles contain all the essential amino acids for the good nutrition of humans.
Rejuvenates the skin
Other benefits of the black truffle have to do with the regeneration of the skin and nails, as well as the growth of hair and mucous membranes. In addition, they have strong antioxidant properties, so they are special to combat skin aging.
As we have mentioned, it contains B vitamins such as riboflavin and niacin, and this is excellent for protecting cells from oxidation. Its antioxidants leave the skin smoother, shinier, more elastic, and free from sunspots. In addition, it activates the natural production of collagen, making it a powerful solution for skin rejuvenation.
Other benefits
There are different types of truffles and not all of them are the same as we have been able to highlight. Some of them, besides their nutritional principles, also favor the circulatory system and prevent the risk of having heart-related diseases.
While improving the functioning of nerve and muscle tissues. They can also improve eye health, prevent fatigue, and combat anemia, thanks to their iron content, which gives more energy to continue with our tasks and also control body temperature.
Better in small quantities
It should be noted that the black truffle is consumed in very small quantities, so it is normal to see it in pieces or grated on top of the dishes, to give flavor and aroma. Although it has many properties, its texture and nutritional composition could cause bad digestion if we eat a lot of it.
Truffles are consumed and preserved quickly, because the aromas they contain are immediately released, as well as their nutritional power.