Italian truffle oil: how to choose the best one and how to use it

You’ve probably heard of Italian truffle oil but may be unsure which is the best Italian truffle oil or how to use it. The good news is that we’re here to help you choose the best one. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to use.

What is Italian truffle oil?

Italian truffle oil is an oil flavoured to replicate the unique taste of truffles. The oil can be added to virtually any dish and will enhance your meal with the rich and unique flavour of truffles. The best Italian truffle oil is made from the residue of truffles collected. We recommend you choose one made with natural ingredients as opposed to a synthetic flavouring compound.

How it’s made and why it’s special

Italian truffle oil is a relatively modern invention. The main aim behind the creation of this oil was to enable you to add the flavour of truffles to any recipe at any time of year.

You don’t need to wait for truffle season!

Of course, the taste of Italian truffles is unique. It’s this that gives the best Italian truffle oil it’s impressive flavour. Using the oil doesn’t just give you the truffle flavour, it’s also considerably cheaper than purchasing truffles. In short, it makes the truffle flavour available to anyone. Italian truffle oil generally uses olive oil, although it can be made with virtually any type of oil. The best ones use genuine truffles and infuse them with the oil. The simplest way is to heat the oil, add shaved truffle slices, cover, and leave to cool. Then, store the mixture in a jar for up to three months. There are other infusion methods. For the colour of the oil will depend on the colour of the truffles used. Italian black truffle oil uses dark truffles, while Italian white truffle oil is very popular. The best versions of this are made with the White Alba truffle.

How to use Italian truffle oil in cooking

Italian black summer truffle slices in olive oil are a great way to create a full-flavoured truffle oil. The longer you leave the truffle in, the more intense the flavour. Whichever flavour you prefer, it’s possible to add the Italian black truffle oil to a little balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard and make a delicious dark truffle dressing.

Equally, Italian white truffle oil can be used to make a lighter, less intense white truffle dressing. When cooking, simply add a few drops of your preferred oil to your recipe. Critically, truffle oil should be added after you’ve cooked your dish. Do it before and the heat of cooking will cause the truffle flavour to evaporate.

Pairing truffle oil with different dishes

Putting Italian black summer truffle slices in olive oil and allowing them to infuse creates a high-quality oil which can be used with many different dishes. For example, add a few drops to your steak tartare or a few drops on your freshly steamed cod. Equally, it goes fantastically with poached eggs and adding a few drops to virtually any pasta dish is a delight. It’s even better if the pasta dish has mushrooms in it.

Truffle oil goes with virtually any dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment.

Conclusion

The best quality truffle oil is Italian and uses actual truffles. Once you’ve tried the real thing you’ll find it hard to locate any other oil that compares. Just remember, truffle oil always gets added at the end of the cooking process to avoid losing its flavour to the heat. In addition, you only ever need a few drops. If in doubt, do less and add more next time.

We’re here to help with all your Italian truffle oil needs, all you have to do is ask.