Black Trumpet Mushroom

Latin name: Craterellus cornucopioides

Other names: horn of plenty, black chanterelle, trumpet of the dead, trompette de la mort

Uses: edible mushroom

What Are Black Trumpet Mushrooms?

Black trumpet mushrooms are choice edible mushrooms that indeed look like small, wrinkly black (or dark gray) trumpets. They’re funnel-shaped, with no distinct, separate stem or cap, and stand about four inches tall. The black-gray color and shriveled appearance may have gained them the names horn of plenty and poor man’s truffle (everyone’s a critic!).

Why Are Black Trumpet Mushrooms Healthy?

• Black trumpet mushrooms are rich in vitamins B₁₂ and D, plant-based protein, and fiber, which support energy.
• They contain powerful antioxidants, like beta-carotene, lycopene, and vitamin C, which help protect cells from oxidative damage.
• These mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that may support immunity and digestion. 
• Their polysaccharides may offer immune-boosting and anticancer benefits.

What Do Black Trumpet Mushrooms Taste Like?

Black trumpet mushrooms have a tender, chewy texture, and their flavor is that of the forest: woodsy, earthy, and slightly sweet and smoky. When the mushrooms are dried, their flavor somewhat resembles black truffles.

How Do I Use Black Trumpet Mushrooms?

Use black trumpet mushrooms like you would any other mushroom. Because they’re less common (and more expensive) than button mushrooms and even shiitakes, you’ll probably want to make them the highlight of whatever you use them for. You can crumble or powder dried black trumpets to use as a seasoning for finishing dishes or adding mushroom flavor.

What Do Black Trumpet Mushrooms Pair Well With?

Black trumpet mushrooms love dairy. Use them with butter, cream, and soft, creamy cheeses. They’re wonderful with pasta or risotto and any alliums, especially caramelized onions or shallot, roasted or black garlic, and chives.

Where Do Black Trumpet Mushrooms Grow?

Black trumpet mushrooms grow in damp forests throughout the temperate regions of North America and Europe and are associated with beech trees and hardwood forests. They’re fairly common on the West Coast, from northern California to southern Washington, and the northeastern United States. They’re in season from early summer through late fall.

How Do I Buy Black Trumpet Mushrooms?

You can sometimes find black trumpet mushrooms in packs of other gourmet mushrooms in the fresh produce aisle of gourmet grocery stores. You can also buy them at farmers’ markets and from foragers. It’s easier to source dried black trumpets, which are available year-round at better-stocked grocery stores and by mail order. Store fresh black trumpets in a paper bag in the refrigerator and they will stay good for about a week.

Surprising Black Trumpet Mushroom Fact

The French call black trumpet mushrooms trompette de mort, and the Italians, trombetti dei morti, both meaning “trumpet of the dead.” Despite the ominous name, these mushrooms aren’t poisonous at all. The name comes from folklore that these dark, hollow fungi were the trumpets played by the dead from beneath the soil.