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Wild Harvested Morel Mushroom
Fungi
Nutri-ScoreA

Wild Harvested Morel Mushroom

Morchella esculenta

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Wild Harvested Morel Mushroom provides 31 kcal, 3.1g of protein, 6.3g of carbohydrates, and 3.5g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Morel mushrooms are a highly sought-after delicacy known for their unique flavor and texture. They are low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a healthy addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Morchella (general)Morel (common)
Scientific NameMorchella esculenta
Region of OriginNorth America and Europe

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories31 kcal
Water
92%
Fiber3.5g
Total9.9g
Protein
3.1g(31%)
Fats
0.5g(5%)
Carbohydrates
6.3g(64%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)3 mg (19%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate23 µg (6%)
Choline17 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin D: 0.2 µgVitamin B12: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium9 mg (2%)
Phosphorus35 mg (5%)
Potassium318 mg (7%)
Zinc0.5 mg (5%)
Copper0.2 mg (10%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0 µg

Health Benefits

Morel mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin D and potassium, which support bone health and cardiovascular function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by sautéing, grilling, or adding to soups and sauces. Always ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished morels with a distinct honeycomb appearance. Avoid any that are slimy or have dark spots.

How to Store

Store in a paper bag in the refrigerator. Do not wash until ready to use, as moisture can lead to spoilage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Nutrient-dense
Main Applications
Culinary uses in gourmet cooking
Potential health benefits due to nutrient content
Bioactive Compounds
Ergothioneine

A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

How to Consume
Sautéed, Grilled, Soups, Sauces
Did you know?

"Morel mushrooms are often foraged in the wild and are considered a delicacy in many cuisines around the world."

Myths vs Realities

MythAll mushrooms are safe to eat if cooked.
RealitySome mushrooms are toxic even when cooked; proper identification is crucial.
MythMorel mushrooms can be eaten raw if washed thoroughly.
RealityRaw morels can cause digestive issues and should always be cooked.
MythMorel mushrooms are the same as false morels.
RealityFalse morels are toxic and should not be consumed; true morels have a distinct appearance.

Healthy Recipes

Morel Mushroom Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad featuring sautéed wild harvested morel mushrooms, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the morel mushrooms until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed morels, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Morel Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a savory mixture of wild harvested morel mushrooms and fresh spinach, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 2 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté morel mushrooms until soft. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Mix the mushroom and spinach mixture with cream cheese, then stuff the chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Morel Mushroom Risotto

A creamy and luxurious risotto made with wild harvested morel mushrooms, arborio rice, and a touch of white wine.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat vegetable broth and keep warm.
  2. 2. In a separate pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add morel mushrooms and cook until soft.
  3. 3. Stir in arborio rice, then add white wine. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly until rice is creamy and al dente. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with Parmesan.

Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A vibrant stir-fry featuring wild harvested morel mushrooms and tender asparagus, tossed in a light soy sauce and sesame oil dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add morel mushrooms and asparagus, stir-frying until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Drizzle with soy sauce, toss to coat, and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Morel Mushroom Soup

A creamy and comforting soup made with wild harvested morel mushrooms, blended with garlic and herbs for a rich flavor.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups wild harvested morel mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add morel mushrooms and cook until tender. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Blend the soup until smooth, stir in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh thyme.

Morel Mushroom Omelette

A fluffy omelette filled with sautéed wild harvested morel mushrooms, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese for a nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté morel mushrooms until golden.
  2. 2. Whisk eggs in a bowl, season with salt and pepper, and pour into the skillet over the mushrooms.
  3. 3. Cook until set, sprinkle with cheese and chives, fold the omelette, and serve warm.

Morel Mushroom and Lentil Salad

A hearty salad combining wild harvested morel mushrooms with protein-rich lentils and a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sautéed
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed morel mushrooms, red onion, and bell pepper.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss to combine, and serve chilled.

Morel Mushroom Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with sautéed wild harvested morel mushrooms, fresh vegetables, and a creamy avocado sauce.

Ingredients
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, sauté morel mushrooms until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and blend until smooth.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing sautéed mushrooms and cabbage in tortillas, drizzling with avocado sauce, and serving.

Morel Mushroom and Broccoli Frittata

A nutritious frittata packed with wild harvested morel mushrooms and broccoli, perfect for a healthy brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté morel mushrooms and broccoli until tender.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables in the skillet and cook until edges are set. Transfer to the oven and bake until fully set.

Morel Mushroom and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring wild harvested morel mushrooms and sweet potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup wild harvested morel mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and add sweet potatoes. Cook until they start to soften.
  2. 2. Add onion and morel mushrooms, seasoning with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is tender and crispy.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a delicious breakfast or brunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are morel mushrooms safe to eat?

Yes, when cooked properly, morel mushrooms are safe and nutritious.

How do you identify morel mushrooms?

Morels have a distinctive honeycomb appearance and are hollow from top to bottom.

Can you eat morel mushrooms raw?

No, morel mushrooms should always be cooked before consumption to avoid gastrointestinal issues.

Where can I find morel mushrooms?

Morels are typically found in wooded areas during spring, often near elm, ash, or apple trees.

How should I store fresh morel mushrooms?

Store fresh morels in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What is the best way to cook morel mushrooms?

Sautéing in butter or olive oil enhances their flavor and texture.

Are morel mushrooms high in protein?

Yes, morel mushrooms contain a moderate amount of protein compared to other vegetables.

Can morel mushrooms be dried for later use?

Yes, dried morels can be rehydrated and used in various dishes.