Truffles?
What exactly are they?
Truffles are a kind of fungus closely related to mushrooms that grow underground and form a symbiotic relationship with roots of particular trees such as oak and hazel trees.
Truffles are quite mysterious – they are scarce, difficult to grow, have no visible support system and oddly, grow underground in the middle of winter when everything else is dormant.
They are native to Europe but now successfully cultivated in Australia (particularly around WA, NSW and Tas). Australia is now the 4th largest producer in the world after Spain, France and Italy.
There are hundreds of species of truffles but the 2 most highly prized and aromatic truffles are the white (Tuber Magnatum) and black (Tuber Melanosporum).
For centuries pigs were traditionally used to find truffles however they were inclined to eat them. Now we use dogs who are much easier to train and handle.
Health Benefits of Truffles
Rich in Important Nutrients Truffles boast an impressive nutrient profile and are high in many important vitamins and minerals.
High in Antioxidants Truffles are a great source of antioxidants, compounds that help fight free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to your cells.
Antibacterial Properties In addition to their stellar nutrient profile, truffles may also have antimicrobial properties that can help decrease the growth of specific strains of bacteria.
May Help Reduce Inflammation Some research suggests that truffles may help relieve inflammation and hence promote overall health and immunity.
Source: healthline.com
