The black trumpet is one of my favorite mushrooms to discover here in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Partly because of how hard they are to find, and partly because I think they are the best smelling fungus out there. They certainly are hard to find, being small and black, they generally blend right in with their surroundings. But if you move slow enough, you may just be lucky enough to find the fragrant black trumpet.
Black Trumpet mushrooms smells similar to a strong chanterelle, with hints of apricot and flowers. They are actually in the same family as chanterelles – cantharellaceae. They are also often called horn of plenty, and are highly sought after by chefs due to their incredible aroma which can be used to flavor almost any dish. Personally, I believe they go best paired with something mild so that they can really be the star of the dish – which they have no problem accomplishing. Check out my recipe for Black Trumpet Omelette here!
Common Names: Black trumpet, trompette de la mort, horn of plenty.
Scientific Name: Craterellus cornucopioides
Description:
- Grows on the ground, singly, but often in great numbers under hardwoods.
- Can reach 3 inches high
- Cap and stalk form a trumpet or funnel shape
- Outer side of trumpet is gray to blackish, with the inside being black.
- Except for color, black trumpets resemble the chanterelle, and are extremely fragrant.
Look Alikes: There are no look-alikes.
