Hidden treasures underground – in search of the black diamond, i.e. the truffle

Pig mushroom, expensive puff-ball, earthen bread, “gím” mushroom, dog-nosed mushroom, trifla and trufola – all terms refer to the same spice surrounded by many mystiques, which keeps gourmets in a fever. Truffles were already consumed by the Babylonian and Arab peoples, and they certainly lived their heyday at the court of the French Sun King. Louis XIV. wanted not only to consume them, but also to grow them, but the latter failed. The oldest Hungarian mention of truffles in our country is from the Glossary of Beszterce, which was written around the 1380s-1390s, and their use is also mentioned in the court cookbook of a 16th-century Transylvanian prince. The history of the truffle shows that it has had an unparalleled career in the culinary arts, which is also due to the influence it has, whether perceived or real, on human nature. In any case, while in certain historical periods it was only consumed by the privileged, thanks to the production technology that began in the 19th century it also gained a right to exist in bourgeois kitchens. Nowadays, its occurrence in natural habitats is decreasing due to climate change, but thanks to the truffle forests and plantations that have now become productive in the past decade, you do not have to give up enjoying it.

If you are looking for a truly special experience, it is worth trying the adventure tours combined with truffle hunting, where you can experience not only the beauty of nature, but also the excitement of acquiring this rare gastronomic treasure. Truffle hunting is based on centuries-old traditions, and today anyone can experience the magic of the hunt accompanied by trained dogs and experienced guides.

The Érsed Éden plantation is located in Western Hungary, close to the foot of the Alps, in a Rába floodplain area. Periodic overflows of the ancient Rába River have formed new layers of soil. This soil type and the microclimate provided by the nearby rivers provide an ideal location for truffle cultivation. What makes the plantation unique is that as a result of extensive research, several truffle species have been introduced into cultivation, so that summer, large-spore and late truffles are currently grown here, and experiments are conducted to introduce the Istrian truffle, known as the king of truffles. The programmes of the gastronomic estate include an estate presentation, a lecture on trifles – collection, storage, use – and you can even get to know different truffle species. Then, a professional search dog invites guests on an exciting truffle hunt, followed by truffle tastings prepared by a master chef in the estate's restaurant.

One of the largest truffle plantations in Central Europe is located on the southern slopes of Gerecse. The estate, established in 2013, now offers a taste of everything truffle farming means: visitors can meet the producers in a family atmosphere and follow the mushroom's journey from the ground to the table. The gastronomic – tourism programme combines knowledge dissemination, experience and village guest table service. The programme here also begins with a presentation about truffles, after which the dogs play the main role: with their help you can take part in an exciting hunt. For those who would like to satisfy not only their curiosity but also their hunger, the hosts have put together a truffle menu.

Those who visit the Truffle&Beef Estate, located in the heart of Transdanubia, 20 km from Lake Balaton, can experience the harmony of home-made flavours and rural relaxation. In addition to truffles, they also breed Aberdeen Angus, one of the most popular beef cattle in the world, originating from Scotland. It is no coincidence, as the meeting of truffles and beef creates wonderful dishes – just think of the Tournedos Rossini, for example! In the programmes of the gastronomic estates, you can search for truffles with the help of trained dogs, which are then served on their village guest tables as accompaniments to meat dishes made from beef.

Adventure tours combined with truffle hunting are not only special programmes, but also form a bridge between nature, gastronomy and traditions. Whether as part of a family trip, a team-building activity with friends or a romantic programme, they can provide an unforgettable experience.