While watching my new favorite cooking show Chuck's Day Off on the Cooking Channel, I was completely absorbed by the episode on Black Truffles. I have read how expensive Truffles can be, but the way Chuck was using the little delicacy intrigued me. No I didn't go to Seattle Pike's Place Market and seek out the odd-looking gem, but I decided to see if I could find Black Truffle Oil at my local grocer.

And find it I did, at a whopping $20! I justified spending five- lattes- worth of dough based on the reasoning that it is the holiday season, and well, we do these kinds of things during this time of year. Anyway, I can't explain the aroma to you in a way that you will understand, so I'll ask you to just go out and get some for yourself. And as a treat, I will give you a hint on where you can pay A LOT less than I did for twice the amount: http://www.amazon.com of course. Just type in Black Truffle Oil and you can purchase two (2) bottles for the price of $24.45 today. (That sounded like an advertisement, sorry!)

Here is how I'm planning on using it:

• Tonight I'm going to mix it with softened butter and smear it on some chicken breasts. I haven't decided whether I'll be pan-frying, or just baking them.
• I'm going to add a little to Peanut Butter bars

I've already used it on:

• The Thanksgiving Turkey smeared with softened butter and (don't frown proper chefs) Lipton's Onion Dip seasoning.
• Candied Yams mixed with Brown Sugar and all the rest

I really think this might be a staple in my house, and now that I've found it more cheaply, I won't feel like it's just a holiday treat.

Go get some and tell me what you think!