White Helvella Mushroom

(Scientific Name: Helvella crispa) A mushroom that is recognized by its saddle shaped cap. The cap is a cream color on top and a tan color underneath. The stem is hollow with furrows along its twisted shape. They are found in damp wooded areas mainly during the fall. White Helvella mushrooms are related to the morel mushroom, but do not have a flavor that is quite as distinctive. The most important information to remember concerning White Helvella mushrooms is that they must always be cooked in order to destroy harmful toxins that are present in the raw mushrooms.