Crispy Fried Morel Mushrooms

Ingredients

Morel mushrooms

1 pound, cleaned and halved if large

All-purpose flour

1 cup

Eggs

2 large, beaten

Salt

1 teaspoon, or to taste

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, or to taste

Vegetable oil

for frying

Lemon juice

1 tablespoon (for serving)

Mayonnaise

1/2 cup (for dipping sauce)

Garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon (for dipping sauce)

Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, beat the eggs until well combined.
2. In another shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each morel mushroom into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
4. In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1/4 inch deep).
5. Once the oil is hot (test by dropping in a small piece of batter; it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded morel mushrooms in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
6. Fry the mushrooms for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
7. Once cooked, drain the fried mushrooms on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. For the dipping sauce, in a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Serve the crispy morel mushrooms hot with the lemon aioli alongside for dipping.