From the Forest to Your Plate: It’s Morel Mushroom Season in Illinois

As spring approaches, a sense of excitement fills the air as hunters and foodies alike anticipate the arrival of morel mushroom season. These elusive fungi are highly prized for their delicate flavor and unique texture, but what makes them so special?

Surely the fella in the pickup truck selling them at the end of the bridge knows what he's doing.

Why Do People Get So Excited About Morels?

For many hunters, morel mushroom season is a time to be outdoors and away from people. But beyond that, morels are notoriously difficult to find. The conditions have to be just right - moist soil, the right temperature - and even then, there's no guarantee you'll find any.

That's part of the appeal - the thrill of the hunt. Morel mushrooms are also a seasonal delicacy, adding to their allure and making them all the more coveted.

Where Do You Find Morels?

Morels can be found in a variety of locations, but they tend to thrive in areas with trees and shaded conditions. Many hunters have their secret spots, but there's no surefire way to predict where they'll grow.

Dead elm, ash, and poplar trees have been known to accelerate growth, but sometimes morels can be found in the most unexpected places. You can even find them next to the shed in the middle of town, as my dad once did. Part of the excitement of the hunt is the unpredictability of where you might find these elusive fungi.

How Do People Eat Them?

The most popular way to prepare morel mushrooms is to dredge them in butter and flour or crackers and fry them. This results in a crispy, savory treat that is hard to resist. Of course, there are other ways to prepare them, such as grilling or sautéing, but frying is the preferred method for most people.

Morel mushrooms are a highly prized delicacy that is difficult to find but well worth the effort. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or simply a lover of good food, the thrill of the hunt and the unique flavor of these fungi make them an irresistible treat. So get out there and start hunting - who knows, you might just stumble upon a treasure trove of morels!

If you do, please give your exact location to billstage@97x.com.  Thanks.