What do truffles taste like?

Truffles have an unusual flavor that has been described as like garlic, dirt or soil, musk, or nuts. Most food experts agree that the strong odor is more notable than the taste, since the gas that truffles give off contains chemicals that mimic pheromones.

The flavor and aroma of truffles, which are a type of underground mushroom, is deeply dependent on the specific variety. There are about 10 varieties of truffles commonly prized for their culinary value, with the most expensive being the most flavorful; the most desired are white truffles and the black Perigord truffles. The scent and flavor of truffles is best when very fresh and deteriorates rapidly after only a few days out of the ground.