Monday, October 11, 2010

Alba, Italy Truffle Hunting

We spent a weekend in Alba Italy searching for the white truffle. Those that are really lucky can find one with the help of a dog (used to be pigs) and have a meal fit for the king.

The white truffle might smell like earth, tree roots and old cheese, but this gastronomical object of desire, from Italy's Piedmont region, is very famous for its aroma, taste and aphrodisiac qualities. For centuries people have travelled from near and far just to savor a little piece. It is a gastronomical jewel only to be experienced at its fullest intensity in Alba, Italy.

And, it is always a mystery as to which tree might produce the best, as individual trees vary considerably. Other tree species such as the hazelnut, lime, poplar, willow also present possibilities for savory truffles to grow. The size, flavor and aroma of a truffle is contingent on various factors such as moisture, weather, species and age of the tree, soil type and acidity, proximity to the roots and tree trunk, and insect traffic. Nature has a way of making certain that the truffle ultimately created is a gift of surprise.

One thing that is important to remember when eating truffle, is that it is always best to eat it with simple foods like pasta, rice, or meat dishes, with truffle thinly, delicately sliced over it; a special truffle cutting knife is used for fine slicing.

Here are the pics from out trip!


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Friday, October 1, 2010

Ski Season is almost here!!!!

In search for the powder..... ;)

filled with anticipation
prior etches in my mind
a day for the adventuring kind
beauty's true form appear
a faraway glance catches my eye
looking so dramatic
it's you I want
not chance or fate
even a minute a second
carpe diem vamps my day

coyness is no longer waiting
pride urges in action
summit to the top
second thoughts in mind
chill wind lashes away
fear sweats you up and down
pressing more weight on my heels
breathless words falling out
a cold whisper brushes my ear
all barriers vanished
its only you and me here

give mercy on my soul
for what I'm about to do
push me push me to the limit
squeeze my insides so tight
frozen in awe because of you
a shy glance through my feet
humbling movements proceed with caution
we shall dance a last dance
this chance is not often

curiosity salivates my teeth
I lunge with my best
primal instincts unleash
utter surprise is your nature
comforting solace absent
you put me in danger
make the reckless man humble
feeble heart in your hands
you are no longer a stranger
respect you demand

first note starts to play
every soft subtle curve a new
discovering rhythm with our bodies
relax and enjoy the ride
designed just for two
our bodies glide the tango
your breath on my cheek
god knows just how lucky
it is here with you
an encounter never forgotten
I must say adieu.