Simple Fried Morel Mushrooms

1 pound fresh morel mushrooms - dirt gently brushed off and mushrooms halved lengthwise

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup vegetable shortening

salt to taste

Place halved morel mushrooms in a large bowl; cover with cold, lightly salted water. Refrigerate mushrooms for about 5 minutes to loosen any dirt; pour off salted water, rinse, and repeat twice more. Crevices of the mushrooms may harbor tiny stones or even insects. Thoroughly rinse mushrooms a final time and allow to drain on paper towels.

Place flour in a shallow bowl.

Heat vegetable shortening in a large skillet until very hot.

Roll mushrooms in flour and tap off excess; gently lay mushrooms in the hot shortening.

Pan-fry until golden brown and flour coating is crisp, 5 to 8 minutes, turning often. Drain morels on paper towels, salt to taste, and enjoy your treasures!