Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms
Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms are the ultimate snack or appetizer that never fails to impress. With their delicious crunch and rich flavor infused with garlic, these golden-brown delights bring a burst of joy to any gathering. Imagine gathering around the dinner table or enjoying a cozy movie night and diving into a bowl of these tasty morsels. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this recipe will soon become a favorite.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms a must-try? For starters, they are incredibly easy to make and pack a flavor punch that resonates with garlic lovers everywhere. Ideal for a quick weeknight treat or served as a stunning appetizer for special occasions, these mushrooms can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Low on budget and high on flavor, they are also kid-approved, making them perfect for family feasts.
“These crispy garlic fried mushrooms were a hit at our gathering! They disappeared in minutes, and everyone wanted the recipe!” — Sarah K.
The cooking process explained
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure! Making these delightful mushrooms is straightforward and rewarding. In just a few steps, you’ll create an irresistible dish that’s perfect for sharing. You’ll start by preparing the batter with a delightful mix of dry ingredients, followed by adding cold sparkling water for that perfect crispy texture. Once you have your batter ready, it’s time to fry those button mushrooms to golden-brown perfection.
What you’ll need
To whip up a batch of Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms, gather the following ingredients:
- 500 g button mushrooms, cleaned and halved
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Feel free to explore substitutions such as using gluten-free flour if needed, or omit the cayenne pepper if you’d prefer a milder flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Gradually pour in cold sparkling water, whisking until you achieve a smooth batter. A few lumps are fine; avoid over-mixing.
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Stir the minced garlic into the batter, being careful not to break the garlic pieces too much.
- Dip each halved mushroom into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Carefully drop the coated mushrooms into the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mushrooms from the oil, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process until all mushrooms are cooked.
- Serve the crispy garlic fried mushrooms hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing over.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these crispy garlic fried mushrooms can be as fun as making them! Consider presenting them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh parsley and alongside lemon wedges for a splash of freshness. Pair them with a creamy dipping sauce such as aioli or ranch, or serve them alongside your favorite wine or craft beer for the perfect snack pairing. They also make a fantastic side dish to any main course!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they might be empty before you know it), follow these simple tips to ensure freshness. Store the cooled mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will lead to soggy mushrooms.
Practical cooking tips
- Temperature Check: Always use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature. Too hot, and the mushrooms will burn; too low, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
- Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring a crispy exterior.
- Experiment with Flavors: Toss in some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs into the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? There are many variations to explore! Try adding different spices like cumin or oregano to the batter for a unique twist. You can also experiment with other veggies like zucchini or eggplant for a fun, seasonal take on this recipe. For a diet-friendly version, consider air frying the mushrooms instead of deep frying for a healthier alternative.
Your questions answered
How long does prep and cooking take?
Prep time is about 20 minutes, and frying takes approximately 15-20 minutes, making this recipe a quick overall experience.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap button mushrooms with shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms for varied textures and flavors.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that the baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Now go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these scrumptious Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Crispy Garlic Fried Mushrooms
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Gradually pour in cold sparkling water, whisking until you achieve a smooth batter. A few lumps are fine; avoid over-mixing.
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Stir the minced garlic into the batter, being careful not to break the garlic pieces too much.
- Dip each halved mushroom into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Carefully drop the coated mushrooms into the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mushrooms from the oil, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process until all mushrooms are cooked.
- Serve the crispy garlic fried mushrooms hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing over.
