Edible morel
Description
Morel (Morchella) is a spring mushroom with a characteristic, cocoon-shaped cap featuring a cellular structure in colors ranging from light beige to dark brown and a hollow stem; its flavor is intensely nutty-earthy with a subtle smoky note that intensifies after sautéing. In terms of nutritional value, morels are low in calories, provide plant protein, fiber, potassium, iron, and B vitamins, and after exposure to sunlight, they may contain small amounts of vitamin D; they also contain antioxidants that support immunity. In the kitchen, morels pair excellently with risotto, cream sauces, fillings, soups, and pasta dishes, as well as being simply sautéed in butter with herbs. They should always be thoroughly cleaned and cooked, as raw morels can cause discomfort. Store fresh morels in a cool place in a paper bag for a few days, or for longer storage, dry or blanch and freeze them after sautéing.