Truffles and Barolo in Piedmont, the Frugal Way

[elleng]

White truffles from Alba and red wine from Barolo are not usually part of the frugal traveler’s diet. After all, shavings of the former or a bottle of the latter can each easily cost over $100 in a New York restaurant. But what if you go straight to the source, the heart of the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy, for these indulgent luxuries? As I discovered during a recent weekend in the area, it’s possible to sample these superlative specialties — as well as excellent art, food and other charms — on a frugal budget.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/02/travel/truffles-and-barolo-in-piedmont-the-frugal-way.html?hpw&rref=travel&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&module=well-region®ion=bottom-well&WT.nav=bottom-well&_r=0


Has anyone tried truffles? I haven't had the opportunity.

[cbayer]

1. Oh, my!

You are killing me with these articles.

Truffles - so the place we were staying this summer was in the middle of nowhere in the middle of an olive grove.

One day this man and his dog wander onto the property. The dog is running around, digging for a minute or two, then returning to his owner.

He is digging truffles! The man gave us a few ping pong sized ones, worth $100's on the open market.

I used them on pasta, risotto, in olive oil and put them in a bag with eggs. They have a taste that is very hard to describe, but it is seductive.

The least expensive way to taste them is in an olive oil, but even then it's going to be expensive.

[elleng]

2. Got me too, cbayer!

[LNM]

3. I had truffles shaved onto my pasta at a restaurant in Tuscany.

I thought they were absolutely delicious. They're very earthy and have a strong flavor. You only need a little bit. A friend of mine who doesn't like mushrooms says they taste like dirt. I can get truffle oil in my grocery store in Mn.

[elleng]

4. Thanks.

Still looking.

[cbayer]

5. The best way to get a taste without breaking the bank is

to buy some truffle oil or, if you can find it, truffle butter.