Nespoli funghi
since 1943
Nespoli funghi Via Silvio Spaventa, 76 Bergamo P.iva 04060060169
THE TRUMPETS OF THE DEAD
RECIPES AND TIPS
This mushroom is commonly called the Horn of Plenty or Black Trumpet because it is one of the last mushrooms to appear in the woods, precisely between the end of October and the beginning of November, the period when there is the festivity related to the dead.
Its mycological name is Craterellus Cornucopioides.
Why DO THEY HAVE THIS NAME AND WHAT IS THEIR CORRECT NAME??
🍄 THE NAME
The name of this mushroom is Craterellus Cornucopiodes, in fact, the name derives from cornucopia due to its shape.
The common name "trumpet of the dead" refers to its trumpet or inverted funnel shape, hollow to the base.
The color ranges from dark gray to charcoal black, the mushroom has a rough and dry outer surface.
The characteristic of this species is the absence of gills; in fact, the mushroom has a smooth surface, and the inner wall is slightly veined.
🌲 THE HABITAT
They grow in deciduous forests, particularly under oaks, beeches, and chestnuts.
The most significant growth is precisely in the period from late October to early November. The trumpets of the dead love moist soils rich in organic matter and are often found in abundant groups, hidden among the leaves.
🍽️ THE PORTION
To achieve a mushroom risotto worthy of being remembered and praised, we recommend using 10 grams of black trumpet mushrooms per person.
🥣💧 SOAKING THE DRY PRODUCT
Soak in lukewarm water for at least 15–20 minutes. After soaking, gently squeeze.
🚫💧THE REHYDRATION WATER
The rehydration water of dried mushrooms should never be used, especially that of the black trumpets, which takes on a grayish color, making it difficult to identify any soil residues.
🧼 THE CLEANING
To clean the dried black trumpet mushrooms, we recommend removing the foot of the fruiting bodies and removing any leaf or twig residues present. This species grows among the leaves, and it often happens that they are also present inside the mushroom itself.
⏱️ THE COOKING
It takes 10/15 minutes of cooking to savor this mushroom.
🎨🍽️ COLORATION OF THE DISH
During cooking, the mushroom retains its dark color, slightly tinting the dish gray or black, similar to cuttlefish ink. It adds a scenic touch and an unmistakable aroma.
🧊 THE STORAGE
Dried black trumpet mushrooms should be stored in the freezer. In this way, the expiration date printed on the bag will be only theoretical since the freezer keeps them completely unchanged over time.
❄️ HOW TO FREEZE THEM
Black trumpet mushrooms can be easily frozen when cooked; a cooking time of about 10 minutes is recommended. They should then be cooled and frozen. When used, they should be used frozen, as thawing causes the mushroom to lose texture and nutritional values.
🥔🍄 THE TRUFFLE OF THE POOR
In the past, trumpets were associated with truffles due to their characteristic black color and intense flavor. For this reason, in tradition, they were called the truffle of the poor. Dried and chopped, they are used to flavor and season many dishes.
📜 THE TRUMPETS AND TRADITION
In the past, the trumpets of the dead were also used in folk medicine. They were believed to help regulate cholesterol levels, thanks to their low-calorie content and high fiber presence. Although there is no definitive scientific evidence to support this belief, it remains a fascinating testament to the trust past generations placed in mushrooms.
A lifetime devoted to the authentic flavors of mushrooms and truffles.