Porcini and Pumpkin Pappardelle

My friend Alfredo introduced me to his secret porcini patch here in the woods of East Hampton. The first time we went, I got a eight specimens of wild Boletus edulis, a satisfying number for a novice mushroom hunter. Subsequent trips have not been as productive. Alfredo’s “secret” spot turned out not to be so secret; usually, there was evidence of recent harvesting. In this pasta dish, the pumpkin creates an unctuous backdrop that lets the mushroom flavor shine. You can use fresh pap