The famous morel mushroom is always a great find and definitely puts a smile even on the saddest face. Mushroom hunters around the world are waiting every year for this wonderful mushroom to pop. There are several common edible morel varieties that may be found in different areas primarily depending on soil composition some of these are the Yellow morel (Morchella esculenta), the Black Morel (Morchella conica) and its relatives M. angusticeps and M. elata. Whether if you’ll find one or the other you’ll have a blast. Where there’s one there are more you just need to look around some more.
Habitat
Morels can be found in a variety of environments, including woodlands, meadows, pastures, and along river banks.They are often associated with deciduous trees, such as oak, ash, and elm, and are commonly found in areas with a moist, rich soil. In addition to their association with deciduous trees, morels can also be found in association with dead or dying trees, and are often considered to be a saprobic species, meaning they feed on dead and decaying organic matter.
Nutritional value
Morels are a type of mushroom that are low in calories and fat, but high in protein and fiber. They also contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, potassium, and iron. Additionally, morels are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of certain diseases. However, it’s important to note that morels can also contain small amounts of toxins, so they should be cooked thoroughly before eating.
Morel mushroom look-alikes
Some mushrooms that are often mistaken for morels include:
False morels (Gyromitra spp.): These mushrooms have a wrinkled cap that is not attached to the stem in the same way as a true morel, and can be toxic if not prepared properly.
Verpa spp.: These mushrooms have a similar shape to morels but the cap hangs down, and the stem is much more slender and elongated.
Elfin saddles (Helvella spp.): These toxic mushrooms have a more irregular shape than morels, with a cap that is more flattened and often has a smooth surface.
Note: Always use caution when foraging for wild mushrooms and consult with a knowledgeable expert to correctly identify them before consumption. To learn more about this wonderful mushroom and other highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms checkout The Wild Mushroom Course
The morel mushroom season
The morel mushroom season typically lasts from April to June but this varies depending on altitude and weather conditions. For example the morel mushroom season in Missouri typically starts in late April and can last through June. It is important to note that the timing of the morel season can vary from year to year and can be influenced by factors such as temperature, rainfall, and local soil conditions. To find morels in Missouri, it’s best to start searching in wooded areas with moist soil, such as near streams or in low-lying areas. Keep in mind that morel hunting is best done in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler and the mushrooms are more likely to be visible. The morel mushroom season in the neighbor state Iowa typically starts in April and lasts until May while in Montana and Minnesota typically starts in May and lasts until June.
Ways to preserve morel mushrooms
Morel mushrooms are prized for their unique flavor and are often sought after by mushroom hunters and enthusiasts. Here are some ways to preserve morel mushrooms:
Drying: The most traditional way to preserve morels is by drying. Simply slice the mushrooms in half lengthwise and place them in a food dehydrator or on a wire rack in a warm, dry place. Once dry, store the mushrooms in an airtight container.
Freezing: Clean and slice the morels, then spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the mushrooms to an airtight freezer bag or container.
Pickling: Pickling is another option for preserving morels. Simply simmer the mushrooms in a mixture of vinegar, salt, and spices until they are fully pickled, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Canning: If you want to preserve morels for longer, canning is an option. Simply boil the mushrooms in a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and spices, then pack into sterilized jars and process in a boiling water bath for the recommended time for your altitude.
It’s important to note that while these methods will preserve the flavor and texture of the mushrooms, they may not be as good as fresh morels. Consider using these methods to extend the shelf life of your morels, but also enjoy some of your harvest fresh while it’s in season.
Cooking morel mushrooms
Morel mushrooms can be cooked in several ways, including:
Sautéed: Slice the mushrooms and cook in a pan with butter or oil over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Fried: Dip slices in a batter of flour, egg, and milk, then fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Grilled: Brush with oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender, about 3-5 minutes per side.
Boiled: Briefly blanch the mushrooms in salted boiling water, then drain and add to sauces, soups, or stews.
Regardless of the cooking method, morels are best enjoyed with a simple preparation to allow their unique nutty and earthy flavor to shine.