In the enchanting Alto Oltrepò Pavese, summer offers not only breathtaking landscapes, but also a rich palette of unique flavours, in which the black truffle is one of the undisputed protagonists. This culinary treasure, renowned for its delicacy and intense aroma, makes summer a festive time for gourmets and lovers of traditional cuisine.
A journey into the land of the black truffle
The mountain area of Oltrepò Pavese is famous for its culinary tradition, rooted in the history and richness of the territory. In this generous land, the discovery of the black truffle was an extraordinary surprise, and since then it has become one of the most beloved gastronomic symbols.
The black truffle, a botanical rarity, grows underground in the woods of Alto Oltrepò Pavese. The search for them is an ancient art, handed down from generation to generation by the "truffle hunters", who use their instincts and the help of faithful, trained dogs to find these hidden treasures underground.
The black truffle in the kitchen: a symphony of flavours
Once harvested, Alto Oltrepò Pavese truffles become part of a culinary symphony. Their intense aroma and flavour make them a sought-after ingredient in many traditional and innovative recipes.
The local cuisine is enriched with refined dishes that enhance the flavour of the black truffle. From fresh pasta to risotto, from cheese to salami, every dish becomes a unique experience thanks to this underground treasure.
The Truffle: Unesco Heritage
The Italian tradition of truffle hunting and gathering is a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage. The art of truffle hunting in Italy involves a national network of about 73,000 truffle hunters and truffle experts, truffle hunters grouped in 45 associations, which are united in the Federazione Nazionale Associazioni Tartufai Italiani (FNATI), individual truffle hunters not grouped in associations, for a total of about 44,600, and 12 other truffle hunters' associations, which, together with the Associazione Nazionale Città del Tartufo (ANCT), involve about 20,000 free hunters and truffle hunters. circa 73 mila detentori e praticanti, i tartufai, riuniti in 45 gruppi associati nella Federazione Nazionale Associazioni Tartufai Italiani (FNATI), da singoli tartufai non riuniti in associazioni per un totale di circa 44.600 unità e da altre 12 Associazioni di tartufai che insieme all’Associazione Nazionale Città del Tartufo (ANCT) coinvolgono circa 20.000 liberi cercatori e cavatori.
The Oltrepò Pavese boasts as many as three Truffle Cities: Menconico, Zavattarello and Casteggio (italiadeltartufo.it).
The black gold
Truffles have been considered a delicacy since ancient times and have been appreciated by different cultures throughout history. In ancient Rome, truffles were considered a luxury and were served as a delicacy at the banquets of the nobility. The Romans were known for their love of food and left written records documenting the importance of truffles in their cuisine. During the Renaissance, truffles continued to be prized as a delicacy. The European nobility and royal courts considered them a precious ingredient and they were often served on special occasions. However, it was not until the 18th century that the appreciation of truffles reached its peak. During this period, truffles were very popular with the European aristocracy, especially in France and Italy. Several literary works were written celebrating the excellence of truffles and their collection became a true art. In recent centuries, truffles have become increasingly famous and sought after, and are now considered one of the most precious and expensive foods in the world.
