Pan Fried Morel Mushrooms

Step 1

Fill a large bowl filled 3/4 of the way with warm (not hot) water and stir in 1 tablespoon fine salt (I used sea salt) until dissolved.

Step 2

Place the morels into the salt water mixture and press to submerge. Place 3 to 4 layers of paper towel over top and gently press until absorbed. This will keep the mushrooms submerged. Refrigerate for 2 to 12 hours or overnight. I like to agitate the mushrooms every once in a while.

Step 3

Pick mushrooms out of the water and place onto a cutting board. Trim the rough edges of the stems and cut in half.

Step 4

Fill another bowl with the same salt water solution and add the mushroom halves. Cover with paper towel and soak for another hour or so.

Step 5

Take the mushrooms out of the water and place onto a clean kitchen towel to drain a bit.

Step 6

In a large (gallon size) re-sealable bag, combine the flour, garlic and onion powder, salt and pepper. Add 5 to 6 mushrooms at a time, seal and gently toss to coat. Carefully shake off any excess flour and place onto a rimmed baking sheet, keep them from touching.

Step 7

Melt 1 stick of butter in a deep-sided, 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place a portion of the morels, cut side facing down, into the hot butter. Cook 6 to 7 minutes (depending on their size) or until golden brown. Use a fork or small spatula to carefully turn the mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5 to 6 more minute. Transfer the fried morel to a paper towel lined plate and repeat this process with the remaining mushrooms, adding more butter as needed. Note that the remaining batches may take less time to fry up, so watch carefully.

Step 8

Dust with paprika before serving warm.