Istrian truffles

Istrian truffle types

White truffle

The largest and most precious species of truffle. It is a tuber fungus that grows 20-30 cm underground. It is most widespread in the Mirna River valley, in the Motovun town area.

Black Istrian truffle

Also known under the name Scorzone with a pleasant and delicate aroma and interesting rustic flavour.

Finding truffles

Truffles are fungi that grow in the grey and damp clay soil, primarily in the valley of the river Mirna, on the slopes of the Motovun forest and in the area of the municipalities Oprtalj and Buzet. The biggest problem in finding it is that it grows at a depth of 20-30 cm below the ground, which makes them invisible to the human eye. Today, the truffles are found by using specially trained dogs which find them by their strong scent. In the past people used swine for their discovery. The main reason why they smell strongly is due to the fact that mature truffles emit pheromones similar to steroids.

Truffle dishes

Distinctive flavour and aroma of truffles goes extremely well with meat dishes, pasta and fish. While on vacation in Istria you should definitely try the traditional Istrian dishes with truffles. Most popular are "istarska fritada" which are Istrian truffles with scrambled eggs and "istarski fuži", the local Istrian fusilli pasta with truffles.

Istrian scrambled eggs with truffles ("Istarska fritada")

Istrian scrambled eggs with truffles or "istarska fritada" is one of the most famous Istrian dishes with truffles. It is scrambled eggs with the addition of the Istrian prosciutto, olive oil, Parmesan cheese and truffles. Every gourmet will recognize superb delicacy in this simple dish.

Istrian fusilli pasta with truffles ("Istarski fuži s tartufima")

Istrian fusilli pasta or "istarski fuži" in themselves are the peculiarity of Istrian cuisine. "Fuži"  is a home-made pasta in the form of the spiral shaped bits of a short length. Istrian fusilli pasta prepared with truffles offers an unforgettable gourmet experience.

Photo: heatheronhertravels/flickr