You might not expect it, but yes: there are truffles to be found in our valley! We went out with Matjaz from Mati Truffle, who, with his two dogs Weedy and Fendi, is scouring the region… for truffles, that is. 🙂
We meet Matjaz in the morning in the Karst region, the hilly area on the edge of the Vipava Valley and the Adriatic coast. Matjaz has been professionally involved with truffles for more than ten years. Alongside knowledge sharing, research and the cultivation of truffles, he takes interested people along on his truffle hunts, giving you a unique insight into the fascinating world of truffles.
We start with an explanation about truffles, the seasons, their habitat, how to use them and of course: where you can find them. Then, we head into the hills with the dogs leading the way in search of truffles, to finish the experience by enjoying a delicious tasting session with fresh truffles.
In all shapes and sizes
You might think that with white, black, summer, and winter truffles you'd have named all varieties, but nothing could be further from the truth. Many species can be found all over the world, including in our region. Each with their own character, size, and appearance. Truffles can be found in almost every season, and Matjaz knows exactly where and when he can find which kinds. Besides the season, the ’terroir’ of the soil is important, as are the tree species with which the truffles like to live in symbiosis, but also the location: whether it’s on a slope or in a valley.
Who is the real hunter: the dog or the human?
Who is actually the hunter here: is it the dogs or Matjaz? In reality, it's about perfect cooperation. Matjaz knows everything about the locations, types, and seasons, and he brings a reward for his dogs. The dogs, through their long training and sensitive noses, flawlessly recognise the scent of truffles and then dig them up. As a reward for the find, the dogs receive a treat, and that completes the circle. Happy dogs, happy Matjaz, and the happy one who gets to eat the truffle. Check here to see the dogs in action.
Besides dogs, pigs are also good truffle hunters, but they have one small disadvantage: they are also very fond of truffles themselves. So, after they located the truffle, you have to distract them quickly with something tasty while they are digging, otherwise, you run the risk of them eating the truffle straight away. Can you blame them? 😉
Truffle hunt followed by truffle tasting menu
Once we have found the necessary truffles, one essential element is still missing: tasting them! After the truffle hunt, we travel to a nearby restaurant, where a number of delicious dishes are prepared using the found truffles. Because all dishes are prepared with real, fresh truffles, you can discover the subtle but deep taste of fresh truffles, without any additions. 'Without additions' might sound obvious, but isn't: although it is rarely mentioned on menu's, the vast majority of truffle dishes served in restaurants contain artificial additives like truffle oil and flavourings.
Among other things, we are served a delicious homemade pasta with a generous amount of freshly grated truffle. Furthermore, we taste a very original dessert: a delicious dark chocolate brownie with a scoop of truffle ice cream. And although that might seem like a somewhat strange combination, it is certainly tasty. A perfect conclusion to an educational, fun and delicious day!
Good to know
- In consultation with Matjaz, you can decide on the time and day for the truffle hunt.
- The hunt lasts for about 1.5 hours.
- Following the hunt you can opt for an optional one, two or three-course menu. With a subsequent 3-course lunch, the total experience takes about 3.5 hours in total.
- The location depends on the season and where the truffles can be found.
- In addition to Slovenian, Matjaz also speaks English, Serbian, and Croatian well.
- It’s also possible to buy truffles to take home. You can keep them fresh in the fridge for at least a week.
- We can also discuss the details with him if you prefer.
Mati Truffle
matjaz@mati-truffle.com
https://mati-truffle.com