By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Want to ruffle a truffle purist? Tell them that their favourite fungi can now be found in fast food burgers! While it may seem ironic, the truth is that what was once considered one of the most luxurious ingredients in the world, reserved for the finest of dishes, has found its way into a surprising variety of foods and drinks.
Today, truffles continue to make appearances in more unconventional settings; here are some unexpected places you might encounter them including the world’s most expensive ice cream sundae!
Fast Food:
Fancy fungi and fast food might seem like an odd pairing, but the allure of truffle has infiltrated the world of burgers, fries and hot dogs with many fast-food chains and restaurants introducing truffle-infused items to their menus. This may all seem a little crazy, until you imagine biting into a juicy burger with truffle aioli, or savouring crispy fries drizzled with truffle oil. The rich, umami flavour of truffles elevates these simple dishes, transforming them into indulgent treats.
Shake Shack’s ‘Black Truffle Burger’ was among the first to try the trend and cater for foodies looking for a quick yet luxurious fix. While closer to home, Bar Luca's Mr T-ruffle Burger is proof that even the best combos of a beef patty, Swiss cheese and streaky maple bacon can be improved with the addition of a truffle aioli.
Chocolate:
While truffles are typically associated with savoury dishes, their distinct flavour profile actually pairs remarkably well with sweet treats, especially chocolate. White chocolate and truffles, in particular, are a delightful combination. The smooth, creamy sweetness of the chocolate is beautifully balanced by the intense, earthy notes of the truffle.
This unlikely pairing creates a luxurious confection that is both unique and decadent with many high-end chocolatiers understanding the potency of this pairing and now offering truffle-infused chocolates as part of their gourmet collections.
Popcorn:
Truffle popcorn is another unexpected yet delightful place to find truffle. Gourmet popcorn shops and even some upscale movie theatres have begun offering truffle-flavoured popcorn as a premium snack option. The buttery, savoury notes of the popcorn are enhanced by the addition of truffle oil and truffle salt, making it an irresistible treat for truffle lovers. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your movie night.
Honey:
Truffle-infused honey is an exquisite product that combines the sweetness of honey with the robust flavour of truffles. This gourmet ingredient can be drizzled over cheese, used in salad dressings or even added to desserts for a unique twist. The combination of sweet and earthy flavours makes truffle honey a versatile addition to both sweet and savoury dishes.
Salt:
Truffle salt is a simple yet powerful way to incorporate truffle into everyday cooking. This seasoning can be sprinkled on everything from eggs to roasted vegetables, adding a burst of truffle flavour to any dish. It’s an easy and accessible way for home cooks to enjoy the luxurious taste of truffles without needing fresh truffles on hand.
Cocktails:
Mixologists have also begun experimenting with truffles to create unique and memorable drinks. The earthy tones of truffle can complement a variety of spirits, adding depth and complexity to cocktails. Imagine a truffle-infused vodka martini or a truffle bourbon old-fashioned. These drinks often feature truffle oil, truffle honey or even fresh truffles as a garnish. The result is a sophisticated cocktail experience that tantalises the palate in an entirely new way.
The World’s Most Expensive Ice Cream:
The epitome of truffle indulgence can be found in the world’s most expensive ice cream sundae. Cellato, a Japanese gelato maker, has created ‘Byakuya,’ a decadent ice cream that holds the Guinness World Record for the most expensive ice cream.
Photo credit: Guinness World Records.
Priced at a staggering $US 6696 per serving, this luxurious dessert features rare white truffles from Alba, Italy. The truffles are expertly blended into the gelato, imparting their rich, earthy flavour throughout. The sundae is then garnished with edible gold leaf, sake lees and a Parmigiano Reggiano base, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
