One of Calabria’s most precious gastronomic treasures is the truffle, an underground fungus highly prized for its intense flavor and unique aroma.  

Although Calabria is not typically associated with truffles, this delicacy thrives in the land of 'nduja and chili peppers, offering a lesser-known treat to local palates. While production is not as prolific as in Piedmont or Umbria, Calabria boasts eight of the nine edible truffle species found in Italy, including some of the most prized varieties.  

Experts praise the excellent organoleptic properties of Calabrian truffles, which rival those from central and northern Italy. The province of Cosenza, nestled between the Pollino massif and the Sila mountains, provides the ideal terrain for truffle growth. These truffles require specific altitudes and favorable climatic conditions to reach their full potential.  

Truffles grow underground, especially in the roots of some tree species such as hazelnut, chestnut, beech and downy oak. To collect them, trained dogs are used, which, thanks to their developed sense of smell, are able to locate truffles even at great depths.

Once the truffle has been identified, it is extracted using a special tool called a spade. The spade is inserted into the soil around the truffle and, using light pressure, the tuber is extracted from the earth. It is important not to damage the truffle during extraction, in order to preserve its quality and gastronomic value.

Would you like to try the experience of truffle hunting firsthand?
All you have to do is click on this link to go in search of the Pollino treasure.

https://www.laresidenzadelmarchesato.it/page/calabriastruffle

                                                      In the Kitchen

Truffles are highly appreciated in the kitchen for their intense flavor and delicate texture,

which makes them perfect to accompany meat and cheese dishes.

In the kitchen, fresh truffles are mainly used grated, to add a touch

of flavor to dishes. To grate fresh truffles, you can use a grater with small holes

or, even better, a specific tool called a "tartufiera", which allows you to obtain a

very fine and uniform grating. Truffles are perfect for enriching first courses such as risottos

and fresh pasta, but also second courses of meat

and fresh and mature cheeses.

The Ice Cream Truffle

Famous throughout Italy is the Pizzo Truffle, an ice cream dessert with the shape and color of a truffle.

This delicacy can be enjoyed in almost all of Calabria, but to enjoy it at its best you have to go to the little square of Pizzo Calabro. There are many flavors to choose from including chocolate, coffee, hazelnut and coconut.

We offer you the opportunity to visit the most beautiful places in Calabria and to taste the Tartufo Gelato right in Pizzo Calabro!

For more information, just go to this link

https://www.laresidenzadelmarchesato.it/page/costa-degli-dei