The black truffle is a true wonder in the kitchen, which is why it is considered a food of great value. But, did you know that it also provides interesting properties and benefits for health?
With a great flavor and aroma, the black truffle is one of the most precious foods in the kitchen. This fungus is found in southern Italy and France, in addition to Asia and some corners of Africa. And obviously in Spain, the world’s leading producer of truffles.
It should be noted that central Catalonia is one of the main producing areas in Spain, as it offers suitable characteristics for its development, due to the humidity and oak forests, as it is a mushroom that grows underground.
The black truffle can be cultivated, while the white truffle is less numerous and it is not possible to carry out its cultivation. In addition to its enormous flavor, it is recognized as having important nutritional properties. We discuss its benefits, its shape, and properties in this article.
What are truffles like?
The black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) has a longer life cycle than the rest of the mushrooms in the country. It is spherical and its size is variable, and it can reach an average of 5 cm.
Its surface is black and dented in polygonal shapes; and inside, the meat is of a less intense black or it is toasted. It has a very fine blackish skin with violet tones, and its flesh has whitish streaks near the skin.
As a general rule, truffles are usually caught in winter and, sometimes, it is difficult to identify and catch them, so there are trained dogs that usually do this work. We found no less than 70 different truffle species, 32 of which are in Europe.
Properties of the black truffle
Vitamins and minerals
The truffle, similar to the mushroom in its nutritional composition, is usually quite rich in minerals and vitamins. As minerals it has potassium, phosphorus, iodine, selenium, iron, calcium, magnesium and sulfur, and vitamin C and those of group B.
Good on diet
It has fiber and vegetable proteins, and it is low in fat, and free of cholesterol. It is then good in various diets, to lose weight, excellent for those who take care of themselves, and a perfect option for vegetarians.
Carbohydrates
The truffle has very low levels of carbohydrates and fats, as its main component is carbohydrates. It should be noted that it only has about 30 calories per 100 grams. While it is said that truffles contain all essential amino acids for good nutrition of human beings.
Rejuvenates the skin
Other benefits of the black truffle have to do with the regeneration of the skin and nails, as well as the growth of hair and mucous membranes. In addition, they have strong antioxidant properties, making them special to combat skin aging.
As we have mentioned, it has B vitamins such as riboflavin and niacin, and this is excellent for protecting cells from oxidation. Its antioxidants leave the skin smoother, shinier, more elastic and free of spots produced by the sun. In addition, it activates the natural production of collagen, being a powerful solution for skin rejuvenation.
Other benefits
There are different types of truffles and not all of them are the same as we have been able to highlight. Some of them, in addition to their nutritional principles, also favor the circulatory system and prevent the risk of heart-related diseases.
While they improve the functioning of the nervous and muscular tissues. They can also improve eye health, prevent states of fatigue and fight anemia, thanks to its contribution of iron, which gives more energy to continue with our tasks; and they also control body temperature.
Better in small quantities
It is noteworthy that black truffle is consumed in very small quantities, so it is normal to see it in pieces or grated on top of dishes, to give flavor and aroma. Although it has many properties, its texture and nutritional composition could cause poor digestion if we eat a large amount of it.
The truffle is consumed and preserved quickly, because the aromas they contain are released immediately, as well as their nutritional power.
