106 ~ We have ignition...

Late yesterday afternoon, encouraged by the recent alternations of days of rain and sun, I searched for morels for the first time this year, in the woods behind the house. I was blessed to come upon a few, and it marks the earliest date I've ever found morels here.  The season is on... Between morels, trout and the gardens, this is the time of year when I might not promptly return phone messages or emails. It's the month of May - 'may or may not'.

            I also picked up some fern fiddleheads along the way. Pheasant back mushrooms (aka, dryad's saddle) were out as well - another ‘bird in the bush’; they’re also fairly good eating, but with morels in hand... I didn't collect any.  Still, their beauty in the spring woods is a feast for the eyes and soul.

Back home in the kitchen, I chopped the morels, sauteed the pieces in butter, salt and pepper, added a dash of bourbon, and let the morel juices, bourbon and butter reduce for a few minutes.  Oh yes...  This treat had followed upon a breakfast earlier in the day of fried brook trout, after some fishing success on opening weekend. Life with the land is good in spring.

      For other morel enthusiasts out there, don't forget the Muscoda Morel Fest, May 17-18. More information here.