Cauliflower Mushroom.
A frequently large saprobe found at the base of living conifers, which it does not kill. It features a density of curly, ruffled and flattened, and somewhat brittle branches that are whitish to cream in color, fading to orangish in age. Usually a foot or so across, large specimens can grow huge and weigh 50 pounds. It is one of the finest of all edibles, with a savory buttered noodle taste. Not only does it look like a pasta, but it pairs well with pastas. Cleaning it takes patience and skill. It must be broken into sections, immersed in water depending on size, and carefully picked through to remove bugs and debris. It is one of the better species for roasting in the oven.