Desert Truffles

Desert Truffles, known as Terfeziaceae, are the fruiting body of a fungus that grows underground. They are often described as having a fleshy texture similar to potatoes. These truffles are abundant in provinces such as al-Jawf, Northern Borders, Eastern Province, and Qassim. They typically grow in plains and meadows and are sold at high prices. Desert truffles are considered a popular dish in the Gulf region in general, and particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The surface of the desert truffle is smooth and slightly wrinkled. Each truffle weighs between three hundred to one thousand g. They appear on the ground at a depth ranging from three to seventeen cm. Their presence is indicated when the ground around them cracks, signifying that they have matured and are ready for harvesting.

The color of the truffle changes from white or pale yellow to black, and it becomes wrinkled and inedible if left unattended and not harvested early. If it is growing close to the surface, it may appear rounded on the ground, without any leaves or stems.

Desert truffles grow in association with certain annual flowering plants, such as Raqroq (Helianthemum) or Jareed. The truffles supply these plants with water and nutrients absorbed from the soil, a symbiotic process that continues until the truffles mature and reach the fruiting stage.

Researchers locate desert truffles by the presence of nearby annual flowering plants. The search typically begins thirty-six days after the seasonal (al-Wasem) rains, marking the start of the truffle harvesting season. The presence of truffles, especially the al-Zubaidi variety, is often indicated by cracks in the ground. Collectors use sticks to probe the earth to confirm the presence of truffles before digging them up. The process varies according to the expertise of each collector.

Desert truffles grow during spring seasons following heavy rains and with the seasonal rains that occur in early winter. If the rains are sparse or occur outside al-Wasem period, truffles cannot grow. Desert truffle collectors, both in groups and individually, may travel long distances in search of them. It can take a considerable amount of time to gather even a small quantity.

The price of desert truffles is determined by the quantity and the effort required to collect them, as well as their size. Larger truffles command higher prices, with the average price per kg reaching SAR250. If the harvest is abundant, the price decreases. Small packages typically range from SAR200 to SAR500, and in some seasons, a ten kg box can sell for between SAR1,000 to SAR1,500.

Desert truffles are boiled in water, which helps to remove the dirt. After boiling, they are sliced and served with various dishes such as rice, broth, and Marqooq. They are also enjoyed with bread and are particularly favored when prepared as Thareed. Alternatively, they can be boiled, seasoned with salt and spices, and eaten without additional ingredients. Bedouins often consume them salted with butter or camel fat. Truffles can also be baked on a hot plate and served with milk. In the Gulf region, they are used in various rice dishes, including Kabsa, Mandi, Mathlootha, and Madghoot.

Desert truffles are eaten for their distinctive flavor as well as their health and therapeutic benefits. Studies on truffles have shown that they contain high levels of proteins, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and vitamin B.

There are several types of desert truffles found in the Kingdom, including al-Zubaidi, which is characterized by its pale yellow and white color and typically grows in plains. Al-Khalasi, also known as 'Ghilasi,' has a pale or dark brown color, grows in harsh terrains, and has an almost spherical shape with lobe-like protrusions on its surface. Another type is al-Juba, which tends to have a reddish hue.

In various regions of the Kingdom, seasonal desert truffle festivals are held. One notable festival is the Desert Truffle Festival, whose first edition was organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in 2022, in collaboration with the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, at al-Kindi Square in the Diplomatic Quarter of the capital, Riyadh. This festival serves as a platform for truffle sellers, restaurants, and local chefs.

The Desert Truffle Festival, was launched in Shari Center, Qassim Province, in 2022, organized by Shari Center and Municipality, showcasing truffles cultivated in fifteen farms.

Additionally, the first edition of the Truffle and Aromatic Plants Festival was held in 2024 in Sakaka City, al-Jawf Province, organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in Sakaka. The festival aims to promote truffles and aromatic plants in the province and market their products. It features designated stalls for sellers and a truffle auction.