The flavours found on a truffle is complex, which is why they are best combined with bland food in order to draw out its flavour. 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. Even if they re known for their strong flavor and aroma, truffles still vary in those departments depending on the fungal species. For example, a Chinese truffle is different from Italian truffle, even though they are both black. The Chinese variety has weaker flavor, while the Italian variety has more culinary significance. It is also found in oak trees unlike other types that can be found in other types of trees. Black Truffles are hunted from late autumn to early winter. During these seasons, Black Truffles grow at their best ranging from 7 to 9 centimeters in diameter and could weigh from 80 grams to 100. Because of the rarity of this mushroom, the production of Black Truffles has been made almost exclusively in the European countries. Not only does it make you pay less for a lighter pack of truffles, but it also allows you to see what you are actually buying. Check the truffles for softness and firmness. Truffles with soft spots tend to have worms in them. Avoid buying such truffles. Also, don t buy truffles that are rubbery, slimy, or spongy. Or these can also be preserved, usually in light brine in cans and bottles that can be found in gourmet sections of supermarkets. Among the so many types, White Truffles are preferred by many. These are consumed fresh or they prefer shaved White Truffles on top of hot pasta with butter. Some even prefer it fresh in their salads. The sad news about truffles is that they are dwindling in quantity. Recently, only 25 to 150 tons of truffles are harvested every year. Many decades ago, harvest of truffles total to hundreds or even thousands. Why is that so? A truffle starts to grow only after about seven years, and the tree where a truffle grows can produce them for only 15 to 30 years.