Farm to Table

• Fresh truffles have an extremely short shelf-life. Once harvested, they begin to go bad almost immediately, so it's vital that they reach the hands of chefs or consumers within a few days. Fresh truffles taste best and are at their most aromatic if you use them on the day you get them. However, you can keep them fresh in storage if you do it correctly.

Short-Term Refrigerator Storage

• Fresh truffles can be easily stored for two to three days. Don't wash or cut the truffles until the day you plan to use them. Wrap them in a clean, absorbent paper towel or cloth. Store them in the vegetable drawer or in the back of the refrigerator. Change the paper or towel once a day. Another short-term storage option is to place the fresh truffles in a paper bag, roll the top snugly, and store in the refrigerator as described.

Long-Term Refrigerator Storage

• It's possible to keep truffles fresh for as long as two weeks with proper refrigerator storage. Wash them in warm water, gently removing soil and debris with a vegetable brush or a new, soft toothbrush. Place them on an absorbent towel and allow them to dry thoroughly. Store the truffles loosely in an airtight container or glass mason jar. Place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, either on the back of the bottom shelf or next to the freezer compartment.

Freezer Storage

• Fresh truffles can maintain their freshness and aroma for as long as six months if frozen properly. Wash, clean and dry them thoroughly. If possible, vacuum-seal the truffles, or simply wrap them first in plastic, then in aluminum foil. For more precise protection, wrap each truffle individually in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped truffles in an airtight, freezer-safe container and store them in the back of the freezer. When you're ready to use the truffles, remove them from the freezer and prepare them immediately without thawing them. Defrosted truffles become soggy and cannot be used or refrozen.

The Rice Method

• Truffles can be kept fresh for approximately three weeks if stored in an airtight, stainless-steel container filled with rice. Wash, clean and dry the truffles first. Pour a thick layer of rice into the bottom of the container and gently place each truffle on the rice approximately 1/2 to 1 inch apart. Slowly pour the remaining rice over the truffles. Store the container in a cool, dark, dry environment or in your refrigerator, between 37 and 41 degrees Fahrenheit.