Our excursion today was to Alba, the truffle capital of Italy, but also known for their wines and chocolate (Nutella is made here). The small streets dotted with towers were charming, and as we walked we learned about the fascinating world of truffles.
Truffles are similar to mushrooms and are found underground beneath trees. During the white truffle season, from mid-September to January, licensed truffle hunters go out at night, to keep their location secret, with dogs trained to smell the precious fungi.
During the season you can purchase a fresh truffle for anywhere from 50 euros and up, depending on the size and quality. Then it is shaved on top of the pasta or a fried egg, a favorite dish here. The Truffle Fair takes place in Alba every October. I would love to experience that!
My new favorite coffee drink is the marocchino de nutella, a small cup of coffee with cream and chocolate rimmed with nutella and hazelnuts.
Stefania and Federica warming up with a marocchino.