Regional Cooking of Tuscany, Italy

The region of Tuscany is shown above in red

Tuscany is probably the most famous for its wine known as Chianti, a dry red that is an Italian classic on any table.  But also from this region, we find truffles.  Truffles are the most expensive mushroom and/or food product in the world (with the exception of perhaps saffron).  Truffles the size of a golf ball can cost well over $150 (about $1500 per pound).  November and December are the best season for truffles.  In fact, a strip search is not uncommon if they let you into these wooded areas go hunting for these exotic mushrooms.  You must declare any of them you may find before leaving.  Tuscany is also considered one of the most beautiful regions in all of Italy and is known for its countryside, but also one of the culinary capitals of the world.