A super versatile product that combines creamy butter with fragrant truffles, truffle butter is the perfect ingredient to add to just about anything. From mashed potatoes to a simple piece of toast, many dishes can be elevated by adding this tasty product, but first, many people ask, what exactly is truffle butter? Let’s find out!
Most likely if you've come this far, you know - and love - fresh truffles. But if you don't, here's a quick refresher: truffles are a fungus or type of mushroom that grows under the soil, typically at the root of certain kinds of trees, like oaks. They're beloved for an intense, heady flavor and aroma that can transform a dish into something sublime. They're usually shaved thinly onto a dish, and there are different varieties: white and black, and winter and summer. They grow in places like Italy and France, but also are found in Spain, Australia, and even Oregon.
How Is Truffle Butter Made?
Truffle butter is simply butter that’s mixed with truffle oil, truffle pieces, or both. Many times truffle butter also includes chopped mushrooms, truffle aroma, olive oil, and salt, but that will depend on the particular recipe. The aim is to create a creamy butter that’s infused with the flavor of truffle – white or black – and also that luxurious aroma that truffle lovers know and love. The chunks or small shavings of truffle also adds a great aesthetic to the ingredient, for more visual impact.
Most of the time, you’ll find truffle butter is made with summer truffles, and that’s simply because winter truffles are much too prized and precious to use in truffle products like butter, oils or vinegars. Thanks to the concentration, and sometimes the use of truffle aroma, the butter has a rich intensity, which lends itself to many uses.
Best Dishes and Recipes
Available in both white and black varieties, you can use truffle butter for most savory dishes, replacing regular butter, just keep in mind that truffles have a very particular heady flavor and aroma that might be best suited for more savory dishes. From simple dishes like scrambled eggs or pasta to complex preparations like roasted chicken and vegetables, all recipes can benefit from a pat (or a stick!) of truffle butter! If you need an elegant appetizer in a hurry, just grill some sliced toast, top with truffle butter and a sprinkle of coarse salt, and voila, instant starter!
The rule of thumb is that if it goes well with truffles, it will most likely go well with truffle butter, like eggs, potatoes, rice and pasta. But let your culinary imagination fly and experiment with new recipes! Perhaps popcorn smothered in truffle butter for upscale movie night, or truffled grilled cheese for quick and satisfying lunch that earns major gourmet points?
Serving Suggestions: How to Use
- Snacks: Spread on crusty bread, drizzle over popcorn for a gourmet treat.
- Main Dishes: Enhance European-style sandwiches, stir into mac and cheese, or rub under roasted chicken skin. It also shines as a sauce for white pizza, a twist on grilled cheese, or a pasta topping.
- Sides: Perfect on grilled veggies, sautéed mushrooms, risotto, polenta, and especially any form of potatoes.
- Desserts: Experiment in savory cookies, soufflés, or a panna cotta with a hint of orange liqueur for a unique touch.
What Does Truffle Butter Taste Like?
It tastes creamy, slightly nutty, and full of rich umami notes. Black truffles contribute a deeper, earthier flavor, while white truffles provide a light, garlicky aroma. Combined with butter, these truffles create a balanced flavor profile that elevates both simple and complex dishes.
Types of Truffle Butter: White vs. Black
There are two main types of truffle butter: white and black.
- White: Known for its garlicky, slightly peppery aroma, it has a subtle flavor that works well with lighter dishes like pasta, risotto, and eggs.
- Black: Stronger and earthier, it is perfect for bolder recipes, enhancing meats, hearty sauces, and rich side dishes.
Each type offers a distinct taste, with white often being more delicate and black bringing a robust, savory depth to dishes.
How to Store
- Refrigeration Basics: It should be kept in the fridge in an airtight container or wrapped tightly to lock in its earthy aroma and prevent unwanted flavors from seeping in.
- Label and Date for Quality Tracking: For homemade or repackaged butter, mark it with the date so you know exactly when it’s at peak freshness.
- Freezing in Portions for Longer Shelf Life: If you’ve got a larger batch or won’t use it right away, consider dividing it into portions before freezing. Use small, freezer-safe containers or wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. This way, you can use just what you need without thawing the entire batch.
- Temperature Control: Keep your fridge at a steady 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C), ideal for maintaining freshness and avoiding spoilage. In the freezer, make sure temperatures remain consistently at 0°F (-18°C) or lower.
- Shelf Life Guide: Properly stored, it lasts about two weeks in the fridge, but freezing extends its life for several months, maintaining that signature truffle flavor.
- Serving Tip: When you’re ready to use frozen truffle butter, let it thaw slowly in the fridge overnight rather than at room temperature to avoid texture changes and keep it creamy.
With these steps, your butter will stay fresh, fragrant, and ready to elevate dishes, whether it’s for an upscale dinner or a quick gourmet snack!