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Crispy Pan-Seared Morel Mushrooms in Brown Butter

crispy pan-seared morel mushrooms - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for perfectly crispy morel mushrooms sautéed in nutty brown butter, enhanced with garlic and fresh thyme. This dish offers a rustic yet special flavor perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fresh morel mushrooms (about 225 grams)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt to taste (preferably flaky sea salt)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Clean the morel mushrooms by gently brushing off any dirt with a soft brush or paper towel. If needed, rinse quickly under cold water but do not soak. Pat dry immediately. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Slice large morels in half lengthwise for even cooking; leave small ones whole. (3 minutes)
  3. Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt and foam but not brown. (2 minutes)
  4. Add the morels in a single layer without crowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy.
  5. Flip the mushrooms gently and cook for another 3 minutes until golden and firm.
  6. Stir in minced garlic and chopped thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, reducing heat if butter browns too quickly.
  7. Push mushrooms to the side of the pan. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the empty side. Let it melt and brown until light golden with a nutty aroma (about 2 minutes). Swirl to coat mushrooms.
  8. Remove pan from heat. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add lemon juice if desired.
  9. Serve immediately on a warm plate for best crispiness.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming; cook in batches if necessary. Pat mushrooms very dry before cooking to ensure crispiness. Use medium heat to prevent butter from burning. Add salt at the end to maintain texture. If mushrooms release too much moisture, increase heat slightly to evaporate it. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: morel mushrooms, pan-seared mushrooms, brown butter, crispy mushrooms, easy mushroom recipe, garlic mushrooms, thyme mushrooms