what is summer Black truffle ?
truffle Tuber aestivum vittadini
Tuber aestivum: The Summer Truffle - A Scientific Analysis
Introduction
Tuber aestivum, commonly known as the summer truffle, is a species of mycorrhizal ascomycete fungus that has become a subject of study for both the scientific community and gastronomy enthusiasts. This scientific analysis will delve into the botanical, ecological, biological, and culinary aspects of Tuber aestivum, providing a detailed view of this relevant truffle species.
Taxonomy and Description
Tuber aestivum belongs to the kingdom Fungi and the family Tuberaceae. It is characterized by its external appearance, which varies in shades from white to ivory. Its external surface is rough, often displaying irregular protuberances. The internal flesh is also white and may exhibit marbling in lighter and darker tones.
Biology and Life Cycle
The biology of Tuber aestivum is based on mycorrhization, a symbiotic relationship with the roots of various trees, such as pine, oak, and hazelnut. During this symbiosis, the fungus provides essential mineral nutrients to the trees in exchange for carbohydrates from the plant. This process takes place underground, turning truffles into subterranean fungi that require specific harvesting methods.
Ecology and Distribution
Tuber aestivum is found in various regions of Europe, mainly in calcareous soils and forests of conifers and deciduous trees. Although it is often associated with spring, bianchetto truffles can mature in winter or spring, depending on local climatic conditions.
Hunting and Commerce
The harvesting of bianchetto truffles is a tradition in many areas where they grow. Like other truffles, hunting is carried out with the assistance of trained dogs that detect the characteristic aroma of ripe truffles underground. Although bianchetto truffles may not have the same prestige as some winter truffles, they are appreciated in gastronomy and contribute to the local economy through truffle markets.
Nutritional and Culinary Value
While their aroma and flavor are milder than those of some winter truffles, Tuber aestivum is still a valued ingredient in gourmet cuisine. It contains proteins, minerals, and natural antioxidants. It is used in dishes such as pasta, risottos, and sauces. It is also employed to flavor oils and gourmet products. Despite their milder aroma and flavor, bianchetto truffles add a unique dimension to culinary dishes.
The peridium (skin) of the summer truffle or Tuber Aestivum is black, its texture is rough, hard and brittle. The gléba of the Summer Truffle or Tuber Aestivum is lighter in color than that of the Uncinatum truffle. This variety of truffle exists on the same tree species and in the same type of soil that produces beautiful black melanosporum truffles, but in summer.
How does the Tuber Aestivum Vitaddini truffle taste?
Subtle, forest mushroom flavor and crunchy hazelnut . Smell of a fine and light bush, it has a delicate smell of ravano or hazelnut and when it is very fresh it exhales a pleasant smell of mushrooms.
In which soils is the Tuber Aestivum Vitaddini truffle found?
The black summer truffle, also called scorzone in Italy or tuber aestivum vittadini, is a versatile species that appreciates both clayey and sandy soils as long as it is well ventilated and with little humidity.
Where is the Tuber Aestivum Vitaddini truffle found?
Summer truffles are commonly found in Europe, France, Italy, Spain, and even Eastern European countries. In the Mediterranean basin, the black summer truffle enters into symbiosis with broad-leaved trees as completely as they are with some conifers such as pines. In Italy, from the forests of Piedmont to the entire slope of the Apennines in Italy, the summer truffle can be found in almost all regions.
When is the season for the Black summer truffle or tuber Aestivum?
Black Summer Truffle aestivum: from 1st June to 31st August
What is the price the black summer truffle?
The black summer truffle is priced between €250 and €600per kilo.