Scarlet Elf Caps Sarcoscypha coccinea are an edible fungus in the order Pezizale, that Orange Peel Fungus belongs to. They are widespread in February and love fallen branches half-buried in rotting leaf litter in mixed deciduous woodland.
You can eat the young ones raw – sandwiched between wild garlic leaves make a fabulous combination. They can be gently fried in butter but they also keep their colour and texture well in a stew or risotto. Avoid older specimens as they can be a little tough and chewy!