Death Trumpet Pasta

November 5th, 2006

On a recent trip to the market I came upon some delectable Black Trumpet (known to the French as Death Trumpets) mushrooms. They are very black, delicate and earthy…a very sensuous and sexy mushroom to say the least. Here’s how I used them to prepare a delicious pasta.

See the video of James making this pasta by clicking here!

Ingredients (serves 4):

-1 pound pristine Black Trumpet mushrooms

-3 tablespoons unsalted butter

-Salt & pepper

-2 tablespoons chopped parsley

-1/2 cup heavy cream

-1/2 pound of Penne or Rigatoni dry pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons of salt and drop in your pasta. Cook the pasta just short of the package instructions to ensure it’s al dente. Most Penne or Rigatoni pasta takes about 10 minutes to cook which is ample time to handle the preparation of your mushrooms. However, feel free to cook the mushrooms first so that you are not worried about constantly checking on your pasta.

Now take the mushrooms and pick through them and remove any twigs, worms or other nasty bits. There’s no need to wash them as they will only absorb the water and become difficult to cook. In a large sautee pan add the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium high heat. Once melted and slightly bubbling (not browning) add the mushrooms and distribute evenly around the surface of the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes so that they begin to carmelize.

Toss them gently in the pan and add a handful of salt so that they begin to release their juices. Sautee another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are glistening and perfectly cooked. (At this point you can turn off the heat if you haven’t already dropped in your pasta and then pick up the rest right before your pasta is ready). Next add the 1/2 cup of cream and turn up the heat and bring everything to a boil. Immediately drain your pasta and add it to the mushrooms. Toss over high heat for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley.

Take your pasta to the plate and garnish with additional parsley. Serve immediately. Buon appetito!

To see a video of me making this dish from start to finish visit this link!

See the video of James making this pasta by clicking here!

Entry Filed under: Recipe Postings, General Food Postings