Couch Potatoes Head To The Woods For Rite Of Spring: Hunting For Morels

Foraging For Fungi, Fun and Resourceful

(Delaware River Region, PA) Pennsylvania ranks highly in the world of edible fungi. According to the USDA in 2007 alone, the farmed mushroom industry in Pennsylvania contributed more than $453 million dollars to the state's economy. Wild mushroom enthusiasts traditionally take to the woods to forage for specialty edible mushrooms at the first sign of spring. This year, take the opportunity to join them with the guidance of an expert.

On May 17th, Bill Russell, author of Field Guide to Wild Mushrooms of Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic will lead the mushroom-curious on a hike in search for wild edible spring mushrooms-with a special eye out for the highly prized morel.

Morels are popular for their intense flavor, and they are one of the more expensive gourmet mushrooms in part because they are rare and difficult to find in the wild. Morels are available in specialty food stores when they are in season for up to $79/pound fresh and up to $299/pound dried.

The guided hike will take place on the grounds of the Pocono Manor's 3,000+ acre wooded estate. Mushroom hunters will learn about wild edibles growing in this unique environment and perhaps, if they are lucky stumble upon some clusters of morels (which will be in the height of their growing season).
Hikers will then present their finds to Chef Doug Becker, Director of Food and Beverage at the Inn at Pocono Manor, who will incorporate the gathered ingredients into a gourmet feast prepared in the open air. Lunch will include wine pairings to compliment the earthy flavors of the gathered wild mushrooms.

Alisa Tongg Weiler, Founder of Delaware River Food and Wine says, "I've always wanted to know for sure how to tell the difference between an edible morel and a false morel. I'm looking forward to learning first hand from such a celebrated expert in the field of mycology. Bill Russell's 'Guide' is my mushroom foraging bible."

Delaware River Food and Wine is a non-profit whose mission is to transform the Delaware River region in to a culinary tourism destination with an authentic eating and drinking culture. Reservations to participate in the Great Morel Hunt can be made at www.delawareriverfoodandwine.com.

For those who just can't get enough fungi, Bill Russell will be leading a free talk and book signing at the Moravian Book Shop in Bethlehem, PA the day before the Great Morel Hunt. Saturday May 16, 4pm call 610.866.5481 to reserve limited spot.

The Great Morel Hunt
Sunday, May 17th
10am - 2pm
on the grounds of the Inn at Pocono Manor
$75, gourmet lunch with wine pairings included, reservations required
www.delawareriverfoodandwine.com