Fried Mushrooms
Crispy, flavorful Fried Mushrooms made quickly with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these golden delights offer a satisfying crunch and tender interior, easily customized to suit dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegan options.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Fresh Mushrooms
- 1 lb button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed
Wet Coating
- 1 cup buttermilk or 2 eggs, beaten
Dry Coating
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free panko)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy twist
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for cheesy crunch
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary
For Frying
- Vegetable or canola oil, enough for deep frying (approximately 2 cups)
- Prepare the Mushrooms: Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Trim stems if needed and pat dry thoroughly to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Pour buttermilk or beaten eggs into one bowl. In a separate shallow dish, mix flour, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any optional seasonings or herbs.
- Coat the Mushrooms: Dip each mushroom fully into the wet mixture, then transfer to the dry mix. Press gently so the breadcrumbs coat evenly. For extra crunch, repeat this wet and dry coating step.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or frying pan, heating it to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil so mushrooms can float slightly during frying.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Fry mushrooms in small batches for 2–3 minutes each, turning occasionally until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy fried mushrooms warm for the best texture and flavor. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
- Dry mushrooms thoroughly to prevent soggy coatings.
- Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature consistent.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil between 350°F and 375°F for even crisping.
- Double-coating by repeating wet and dry steps creates extra crunch.
- Season immediately after frying by sprinkling salt for enhanced flavor.
- To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes; avoid microwave to keep crispiness.
- For baking option, arrange coated mushrooms on baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg (varies if egg or vegan substitute used)
Keywords: fried mushrooms, crispy mushroom snack, appetizer, gluten-free snack, vegan fried mushrooms, mushroom recipe, easy appetizers