Uses of Truffles Experts say that there are so many types of truffles. 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. Perhaps, it s the rarity and the fact that truffles are buried deep within the earth. Truffles are so scarce that they are hard to find. Yes, you can find them in every part of the world, but it takes a great deal of hard work, time, patience, and knowledge about various truffle species to be able to collect these precious finds. In the past, female pigs are used in Europe to look for truffles. It is because that these mushroom finds is said to mimic the scent of a male pig sex hormone. Currently, there are dogs which undergo training for truffle hunting. The season for truffle hunting usually lasts from fall to spring. Looking for truffles would require patience, since it is possible that all you may find would be clogs of dirt. Growing Your Own Truffles Truffles are among the most prized and expensive natural gourmet items. White truffles usually cost about $1000 to $2000 for a pound, while black truffles cost $300 to $600 for a pound. In 2007, a 3.3 pound white truffle was bought by billionaire Stanley Ho for $330,000. In 1999, a 2.86 white truffle was sold for $212,000. This widely popular truffle is cultivated in France, Australian, America, and Spain. 5. Tuscan Truffles Tuscan truffles look like Italian white truffle and taste like garlic. Their soft flesh has white and chocolate brown color, while their outer skin is muddy tan and chestnut-colored. 6. Oregon White Truffles Harvested from October to February, Oregon white truffles grow in northern California, British Columbia, western Cascade mountains, and Pacific Northwest. 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. There are also different truffle products which also provide the same pungent taste, like truffle oil, butter, honey, vinegar and paste.