What are morel mushrooms? Here's when, where you can find them in Kentucky

AI-assisted summary
• Morel mushrooms are a highly sought-after edible mushroom species found in Kentucky and across the world.
• These mushrooms thrive in a variety of ecosystems and are known for their unique, delicate flavor.
• Thoroughly cooking morel mushrooms is essential to prevent allergic reactions, and they can be enjoyed in various dishes or preserved for later use.

In recent years, mushroom consumption has skyrocketed with a global market valued at more than $50 million in 2022 and The New York Times naming them "ingredient of the year" during the same time frame, USA TODAY reports. The savory fungus can be beneficial to one’s health because they promote lower cholesterol, provide a source of Vitamin D and decrease risk of cancer.

In Kentucky, wildly popular morel mushrooms will soon be in full season in mid-to-late April or early May. For all fungi enthusiasts out there, these edible mushrooms are ones you don’t want to miss. Here's what we know about them.

What are morel mushrooms?

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, morels are a species of edible mushrooms often growing in many forests in North America and across the world. Compared to other fungi, they can grow in a wider variety of ecosystems and are more genetically diverse. They are considered highly esteemed in culinary use and are often sought out by consumers.

Morels are characterized by their honeycomb appearance and dark color of tan, yellow or gray, according to Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. They are often hollow on the inside while false morels are red, purple or brown and contain “cotton-like fibers” or chunks of tissue throughout.

When is morel season in Kentucky?

According to Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, morel mushrooms are found throughout the spring. They typically appear after heavy rain when soil temperatures are near the low 50-degree mark and are found in areas with plenty of sunlight.

Places where morels are frequently located are in river bottoms or recently burned or cut forests. They can also be found at the base of hickory, oak, elm, ash, tulip poplar, or sycamore trees.

While Bernheim doesn't allow foraging, it's permissible at spots like Mammoth Cave National Park, Otter Creek or Taylorsville Lake.

How can people prepare for morel hunting season?

The DNR recommends a variety of ways to be best prepared for a morel mushroom search:

• Bring a map, compass or GPS unit to avoid getting lost off-trail.
• Wear sturdy and comfortable footwear during the search.
• Don’t rake or drive a vehicle through the area as forest floors are typically where morels grow.
• Use a mesh bag or basket to collect the morels and keep them dry.
• Be prepared to be disappointed when looking for morels. They aren’t always easily spotted.

How can morel mushrooms be cooked?

To stay safe, all mushrooms should be thoroughly cooked before consumption. All mushrooms contain substances that can cause allergic reactions in some people so it’s important to be cautious when consuming a new type of mushroom.

Morel mushrooms have a unique, delicate flavor and can be cooked in countless ways. They can be sautéed in a pan with butter or oil and be served immediately. Morels can be added to all sorts of meals such as pasta, pizza, red meat, and soup, or can be frozen or dehydrated for other use.

What other mushroom species are edible?

While an exact number of edible mushroom species in Kentucky is unknown, the University of Kentucky says edible species include chanterelle, chicken of the woods and oyster mushrooms.

• Oyster mushrooms: These mushrooms are whiter with a more pronounced stem compared to the Dryad’s Saddle, also growing at the base of tree trunks.
• Chicken of the woods: This bright orange fungi can be found on tree trunks and is known for a rich, meaty texture.
• Chanterelle mushrooms: These mushrooms are often seen in summer months beginning around July. Unlike other species, the golden chanterelle grows in the ground. Types include golden and smooth chanterelles.
• Lions' mane: These mushrooms grow on hardwood logs or stumps, as well as on dead and dying trees that are still standing. They are characterized for being a white fungus with downward cascading spines and are typically found in the fall.