The morel is, you need this fungus in your life.
Key Takeaways
Morels are some ofthe best mushroomsmoney can buy, but what are they exactly?
However, when you do encounter morel mushrooms, you’re in for a splurge-worthy culinary experience.
What Are Morel Mushrooms?
“Morels grow from a fungus that is usually underground.
The fungus, in return, gets sugarscarbohydratesthe tree produces by photosynthesis.”
“With mushrooms, the tree is always there, but underground,” he says.
“The fungus underground is made up of fine, thread-like filaments called mycelium.
When a fungus runs out of food resources underground, it sends up special mycelium that produce mushrooms.
Mushrooms are the reproductive organ of a fungus and produce spores that begin the life cycle.”
Instead, keep the morels in the refrigerator, in a container with plenty of airflow.
Yes, even if they are dirty.
“This helps to get rid of tiny bugs that are usually on morel mushrooms.
They are harmless,” he shares.
While morels may have worms and other bugs in them, they are still safe to eat.
After the soak, dry the mushrooms off and start cooking.
Once the soak is done, be sure to thoroughly pat the morels dry.
you could also saute morels like you would othertypes of mushroomsor pan-fry them without breading.
As long as you’re cooking with morels, you’re able to’t go wrong!
Morels are better off cooked than consumed raw.
Eating raw morels can lead to some stomach pain for those with sensitive stomachs.
Where Do You Find Morel Mushrooms?
“Morel mushrooms are found in the woods growing around certain trees.
“Dying elm trees are known to produce large fruitings of morels.”
Morels are known for being pricy, particularly because they are not easy to find.
“Some years morels are relatively abundant, and other years they can be scarce,” Kerner adds.
“They seem to like wet and warm, hotter-than-50-degree conditions in early spring.”
In southern Indiana, for example, the best time to find them is roughly mid-April to mid-May.
Morels often average about $50 a pound, which is about the size of a gallon-volume plastic bag.
you might find them at specialty supermarkets, online retailers, and also from mushroom hunters.
Kerner suggests checking social media to connect with local mushroom hunters for some of the best finds.
If your morels are discolored, decaying, or moldy, don’t eat them.
You also want to avoid morel mushrooms that feel slimy, mushy, or overly soft.
Before washing or cooking, always slice the entire mushroom in half length-wise to inspect for dirt or insects.
Oklahoma State University Extension.Spring highlights morel mushroom hunting.
Accessed March 22, 2023.
2023;290:154094. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jplph.2023.154094
