Al-Jouf: Many citizens of Al-Jouf region are venturing into the wild in search of areas where truffles grow, eager to harvest as many of these prized delicacies as possible during their season.
According to Saudi Press Agency, truffles are known for their delicious taste and have become a highly sought-after delicacy. For many enthusiasts, collecting them is both a hobby and a recreational activity, as they enjoy extracting these seasonal treasures from the ground. It also offers economic opportunities for young people, providing them the chance to earn a substantial seasonal income by collecting and selling these rare items.
In Al-Jouf, markets and seasonal sales sites have seen high demand from people eager to buy truffles, which typically grow after the rains. Several sellers noted that the price of truffle packages ranges from SAR150 to SAR450, depending on the quantity.
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority recommends consuming truffles within 10 days of harvesting to maintain their texture and flavor, advising against long-term storage. It also emphasized the need to clean them thoroughly to remove soil and dry them properly. The authority highlighted that truffles are highly nutritious, containing all essential amino acids, high levels of antioxidants, and are rich in proteins, healthy fats, dietary fiber, and phosphorus.