And although none of these types are known to contain any type of poison, not all truffle types are considered gourmet delicacies. These types include the White Truffles which are the most rare among the types of truffles; the Black Truffles, which is very expensive because it can only be found in an oak tree; the Chinese Truffles which are the most available type because it grows bountifully in China and are often being exported to various parts of the world; and the Summer Truffles, which have milder aroma compared to other winter truffle types. If they are underground, how would you find these treasures? Truffles, when they mature, would develop a strong scent which can be detected by animals. When looking for truffles, small animal diggings around the tree roots would be a good indication that truffles are probably nearby. The scent could even attract animals bigger than the squirrel, like pigs and dogs. They are highly perishable, which is why it is important for truffles to be consumed immediately after harvesting. Often times, truffles are sold in containers filled with rice. This rice has definitely absorbed parts of the flavour and aroma of the fungi and could be used for cooking. Given this condition, they are often described as vegetable meat. Winter white truffle - This truffle type goes by other equally popular names such as Italian white truffle, Piedmont truffle, and white truffle from Alba. As the name suggests, this truffle is harvested in winter months from October through December. The winter white truffle is best known for its garlic-like flavor and musky smell. When looking for truffles, make sure that they are harvested in their right age. There are truffles which are preserved so that it could be distributed. These mushrooms are cooked at 400 degrees and frozen, so that they would be able to reach its destination. Truffle mushrooms are not the only ones used for cooking. Common Sources of Truffles: Where to Find Them History has it that truffles trace their roots to France. Others say that truffles had been part of Roman and Greek civilizations, mainly as a delicacy, medicine, or even an aphrodisiac. Regardless of where the very first truffle fungus sprouted, this mushroom is found practically everywhere in the world, albeit in different amounts.