Most black truffle salt you’ll find on the market will be artificially manufactured using a mold. The kind of salt used in every truffle will also differ greatly. Some will be coarse, some fine grain, and others may even be traditional salt. They’ll all be sourced from different places around the world, though the most popular source is France.
Historically, truffle salt was a huge hit with those who could afford it. The wealthy would send their trusted friends scouring the countryside for rocks rich in this mysterious substance, hoping that these rocks contained truffle. Of course, they’d also pay good money for these rocks, so the trend soon died down. Today, it’s hard to find someone who’s daunted by the thought of trying to pick truffle salt out of the ground.
However, those fortunate enough to live in areas where truffle salt can easily be found still have a soft spot in their hearts. And since black truffle salt is a relatively new addition to the culinary world, people are eager to learn how to make them themselves. If you’re feeling adventurous, these tips might help you along.
First, let’s talk about the kinds of rocks used to create black truffle salt. Of course, they come in many different hues, from light black to dark black. The traditional rock is a piece of sea salt. The trick, however, is finding the best sea salt for your tastes. Most sea salts have a higher content of iodine, which can cause a slight bitter taste in the mouth. If you’re used to salty flavors, skip sea salt altogether and go with regular table salt instead.
Next, consider how the truffle is crafted. Like most other kinds of fine salted foods, truffle salt is made by melting a piece of dry bread and then grinding it. After which, the resulting mixture is then aged in an air-conditioned environment to improve its color. Some versions of this ancient method use actual wood as well as charcoal to achieve a richer shade of black. Ultimately, though, the decision is up to you.
Once you’ve settled on your type of black truffle salt (if you choose sea salt), then it’s time to start thinking about what kind of flavor you want. While there are some definite flavors associated with truffles that are enjoyed by all, the most popular ones include raspberry, chocolate, and caramel. Many people also like to add a little bit of cream or milk, and even vanilla to their mix. Think about what would work for your specific blend of truffles, and then find a reliable black truffle oil to complement it.
As far as cooking techniques are concerned, the majority of experts recommend that once you’ve chosen your perfect truffle flavor, simply cook it in a medium-high heat until the bread is almost burnt. Then, let it cool and slice into wedges and serve right from the pan. Be sure to keep a finger close to the stove whenever you do this, so you don’t overcook the bread. Another trick many experts recommend is to let the truffle salt settle in a warm room for a few minutes before using it. This allows the flavors to meld together better, producing a richer, more intense version of the truffle flavor you’re trying to achieve.
There are plenty of other ways to get your truffle salt fix, too. Many chefs use truffles as a great addition to stir-fries or vegetable dishes, and they’re also a tasty addition to soups and stews. Try sprinkling some on top of baked potatoes or carrots, or perhaps melting some into a nice dip. No matter how you use them, you’re sure to enjoy more of the delightful truffle flavor than you ever thought was possible.