To the great joy of many gourmets, chefs and admirers of this fungus, Istrian forests are full of white and black truffles whose quality is now widely known. These aromatic treasures and their magical powers were admired by the ancient Greeks and Romans, and spread throughout history among many peoples. Truffles thrive in oak forests and moist soil; a habitat found throughout the hills around Motovun and Buzet. Many Istrian truffle hunters and their dogs frequent this area in search of the best specimens of this special subterranean fungus. Giancarlo Zigante, one of the most famous Istrian truffle hunters, together with his dog Diana2 found the largest truffle in the world in 1999, weighing just over 1.30 kg, which earned it a spot in the Guinness Book of Records. Along with Zigante, many other truffle hunters and associations are working on the sustainability and development of this profession, passing on their knowledge to younger generations. Apart from them, the promotion of this magnificent treasure also includes numerous Istrian caterers and chefs who give truffles the attention and place of prominence they deserve.
It is impossible to know precisely all the secrets hidden within Istria’s mystical forests and how much wealth lies beneath the ground, but we know for sure that truffles here have ideal conditions for them to thrive. Therefore, it is not surprising that truffles were not only enjoyed by royalty but also by giants who, according to legend, are partly responsible for their survival. Whatever the legends say, what is more than real is that Istria’s long-standing culinary heritage, including delicacies such as Istrian fritaja and fuži, would be almost unthinkable without these edible treasures.
