Each spring in the United States, old-timers and new converts to morel hunting appear in the woods in search of the elusive but distinctive morel, a mushroom well known and loved in Michigan and other states for its superb flavor and culinary value. So prized is the morel that favorite morel hunting spots—not unlike those of its cousin, the European truffle—are closely guarded secrets to morel devotees.

While many morel fans remain tight lipped about their favorite subject, in How to Find Morels author Milan Pelouch freely shares everything he’s learned during his years of morel hunting. The book covers all aspects of finding and eating morels: identification of true and false morels; what to wear (and not to wear) and take with you on mushroom hunts; when to search for morels; the best places to look for them; cleaning and preservation methods; and, of course, delicious recipes using morels in dozens of different dishes, from soups to entrées. Although the author’s preferred hunting area is northern Michigan, his tips can be used in any location in the United States.