For the past few years, truffles lovers have been startled by the pungency of Orgeon Truffles. For decades, the truffles — both black Périgord-style and the white truffle often associated with Italy’s Alba region — have often been pale imitators of their European cousins. But suddenly, the delicacy from the Oregon woods is a contender. One Big Table teamed up with the Oregon Truffle Festival for a recipe contest using the local “gold.” The finalists have been chosen and the competition is stiff.
I’m on my way to Eugene to learn how to hunt with the famed Italian truffle dogs from Blackberry Farm, take a lesson in truffle raking with Jack Czarnecki, the legendary forager, learn about the domestication of truffles from Charles Lefevre, the scientist who has changed the face of Oregon truffles, and to choose this year’s winning recipes. The giant leap forward in Oregon truffles comes just in time. This year there is a shortage of white truffles from Alba that has many chefs wringing their hands. Here is a link to a story that CBS morning did on the situation several weeks ago.
Stay tuned for truffle hunting, truffle lore, truffle dogs — and more — over the next few days from the Oregon Truffle Festival.
As a lagotto romagnolo owner/ breeder, I’m beyond excited to be attending the truffle festival, and have the honor of working with you behind the scenes as the photographer- poised and ready to capture some authentic foraging fun!
Cheers!
Excellent truffle festival this year and the public event on Sunday was exceptional. Enjoyed meeting you, Kathy Gunst and seeing my old friend Stephanie Pearl Kimmel.
All the food samples of truffle infused goodies were amazing. Especially liked the Tumalo infused cheeses from the Bend, Oregon area. Capitello and Pfieffer Vineyard Pinot Noirs were excellent this year as well.