How to cook trumpets of the dead

Tips for cooking Death Trumpets (Craterellus cornucopioides)

Although their popular name may frighten, Trompettes de la Mort -also known as Trompette Noire, Trompettes des Morts, Corne d'Abondance or even Truffe des Pauvres- are a real delight in the kitchen. Their intense flavor, with nuances reminiscent of truffles, makes them a popular ingredient with mushroom lovers.

🗓 When and where to find them

The autumn is the best time to harvest them fresh, although in some areas they continue to appear until late winter. Death's Trumpet grows on damp beech and oak woodland soils, particularly in areas covered with moss, dead leaves and lichens. They appear in large groups, so finding a good setal is quite a spectacle.

🍳 How to cook death trumpets?

One of their big advantages is their polyvalence in the kitchen. You can use them fresh, dehydrated or even powdered as a condiment. They bring a unique and surprising flavor to a multitude of dishes.

• Perfect for risottos and pastas: whether as a main ingredient or a complement, they add intense flavor and aroma.
• As powdered seasoning: a great way to enjoy their flavor all year round. Simply add one tablespoon of powder per guest to enrich any stew, sauce or meat dish.

🌿 How to dry or dehydrate trumpets of death?

The Trumpets of Death dehydrate very well, so you can enjoy them at any time of year. Here are the most recommended methods:

✅ Sun drying (Traditional method)

• Clean the mushrooms well and cut them into thin strips, always vertically.
• Place them on a wooden board, without overlapping.
• Leave them in the sun and turn them over regularly until they lose all moisture.
• Once dried, store in glass jars or airtight food-safe bags.

Tip: In autumn, sunshine may not be enough, so you can resort to other methods.

✅ Oven drying

• Place mushrooms on parchment paper.
• Add the oven to 45ºC and leave it ajar or vented to prevent moisture build-up.
• Dry until the mushrooms are completely dehydrated.

✅ Electric dehydrator

• This is the most comfortable and quickest method, especially on damp or rainy days.
• Follow the instructions on the appliance and make sure to spread the mushrooms evenly.

🌿 How to prepare trumpet powder?

Once dried, trumpets can be ground into a fine powder:

• Use an electric chopper or traditional mortar.
• Store the powder in an airtight jar and use it as a condiment when you want to add a gourmet touch to your dishes.

🍄 An extra tip:

When rehydrating dehydrated trumpets, you can do so with warm water, stock or even beer to enhance their flavor even further.