A pungent underground fungus, truffle is one of the world's most expensive and sought-after cooking ingredients. The writer Maurice Goudeket said of this wonderful ingredient: “Truffles - anyone who does not declare himself ready to leave Paradise or Hell for such a treat is not worthy to be born again.”

Treat yourself with this mouth-watering collection of truffle recipes, including Mark Jordan's asparagus spears with truffle and poached duck egg with hollandaise sauce, Tom Aikens' moreish truffle chips, and Steve Drake's indulgent truffle ravioli canapé.