Deep-Fried Morel Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 20 large fresh morel mushrooms
• Breading Mix:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Italian cracker crumbs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Place morels in a large bowl of warm salted water and leave to soak, about 30 minutes. Drain.

Combine flour, cracker crumbs, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and cumin in a large resealable plastic bag to make breading mix.

Whisk milk and egg together in a small bowl.

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Dip mushrooms, a few at a time, into milk mixture. Toss in breading mix until coated; shake off excess.

Fry breaded morels in the hot oil, working in batches, until dark brown and crispy, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.