SCARLET ELF CUPS - 125g

FRESH SCARLET ELF CUP MUSHROOMS

Sarcoscypha austriaca

As winter's grip loosens and gives way to the early signs of spring, Scarlet Elf Cups emerge like jewels scattered amidst the decaying wood and leaf litter. With their stunning, bright scarlet cups standing in bold contrast against the earthy tones of the forest floor, they beckon to both the casual wanderer and the avid mushroom hunter alike. With a subtle earthy flavour reminiscent of beetroot and a unique texture unlike typical mushrooms when cooked, scarlet elf cups are a delightful find.

The cup-shaped fruiting bodies feature a slightly wavy or irregular rim, transitioning from rounded cups in their youth to more flattened shapes as they mature. Easy to spot amidst the forest foliage, these mushrooms are typically found from February to April when few other fungi are present.

Saprobic by nature, scarlet elf cups thrive on decaying organic matter, often preferring to grow on fallen branches or logs of deciduous trees such as beech or oak, especially when these branches are covered in moss. Due to their habitat, they require thorough cleaning, but the effort is well rewarded by the visual appeal these mushrooms can bring to your dish.

All guidelines advise cooking Scarlet Elf Cups before consumption, and they maintain their striking colour beautifully when cooked. While some debate exists about whether they can be eaten raw, it's best to err on the side of caution and always cook them.

Season: February - April  

Origin: UK

Net: 125g