Over a decade since opening, TOZI Restaurant & Bar in Victoria remains in the hands of its original team, led by passionate Head Chef Maurilio Molteni. Here, the expert chef shares his top tips and tricks for truffle season
PLUS: Alongside sharing his tips and tricks for truffle season, a celebratory white truffle menu by Chef Maurilio will be available from 20th – 29th November, showcasing Italy’s most luxurious ingredient within TOZI’s signature Venetian-style dishes.
Where do you source your truffles and what makes them special?
I’ve been working with the same trusted supplier for many years. He collaborates with Italian foragers across central Italy and always brings me the very best. You can tell immediately when it’s a good truffle – that rich, earthy perfume fills the kitchen before you even open the box.
How do you keep truffles at their best in the kitchen?
I wrap them in a clean cloth and store them inside an airtight container in the fridge. It’s important to change the cloth daily to keep them dry and aromatic. Some chefs store them with rice, but I prefer this method, it keeps their natural scent stronger for longer.
What dishes best showcase white truffle at TOZI?
Truffles are at their best with simple, rich flavours. Our Buffalo Ricotta Ravioli with Butter Emulsion is always a favourite: silky pasta, creamy filling and just the right amount of butter to let the truffle shine. We also serve Fried Duck Egg & Wild Mushroom Bruschetta, and for something indulgent, Chargrilled Beef Rib-Eye finished with red wine jus and shaved truffle.
Do you prefer white or black truffles and why?
White truffle is something else, elegant but powerful. It’s all aroma. Black truffle is more robust and earthy, perfect for deeper winter dishes, but the white truffle has that unforgettable fragrance that transforms a plate.
Are there any common mistakes people make with truffles?
Cooking them! You never cook truffles. Shave them fresh on top of a hot dish and let the heat release the perfume. The trick with truffles is to never wash them, simply brush off any dirt gently. They’re delicate and deserve to be treated with care.
Beyond pasta and risotto, what are some creative ways you use truffles?
We make a truffle mayonnaise that’s perfect with fried cauliflower or asparagus. I also love to shave truffle over a mushroom salad or beef carpaccio. When white truffles are in season, they even make it onto our desserts, fiordilatte ice cream or panna cotta with white truffle is something truly special.
For home cooks trying truffle for the first time, what’s your advice?
Start simple. Fried or scrambled eggs with shaved truffle that’s the dream. Keep the yolks runny, add some good bread and a glass of Franciacorta. It’s indulgent, but perfectly Italian.
Try it for yourself
TOZI Restaurant & Bar, Victoria, 8 Gillingham Street, Pimlico, London SW1V 1HJ
tozirestaurant.co.uk
