Stuff You Should Know Truffles: Underground Treasures
Apr 27, 2021
Dive into the fascinating world of truffles, those rare and pricey fungi that stir culinary passion. Discover their emotional allure and the dark side of truffle hunting, including illicit activities in the underground market. Learn about their unique growth conditions, the impact of climate change, and innovative practices that help cultivate these gourmet treasures. Enjoy amusing anecdotes and reflections on post-pandemic hipster culture, revealing how truffles continue to captivate chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
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Hosts' Truffle Experiences
- Josh and Chuck discuss their limited experience with real truffles.
- Chuck describes enjoying truffle-flavored popcorn and a small amount of shaved truffle on a tasting menu.
Truffle Taxonomy
- Truffles and mushrooms are only distantly related within the fungi kingdom.
- Their relationship is comparable to humans and starfish, sharing only the broadest classification.
Truffle Hunting
- Truffles grow underground, unlike mushrooms.
- Pigs were traditionally used for truffle hunting due to their natural attraction to a truffle scent but are now largely replaced by dogs.