Fried Oyster Mushrooms

Fried Oyster Mushrooms

Pairs with Theopolis Vineyards 2023 California Symphony

Photo Courtesy @strojotogo

Servings: 4
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz oyster mushrooms (fresh or dried rehydrated)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup cornmeal

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/4 tsp paprika (for a mild kick)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a squeeze of lemon juice as a substitute)

  • 1 large egg

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Mushrooms:

  1. Clean the Mushrooms:

    • Gently wipe the oyster mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Trim the tough ends of the stems and separate the mushroom caps. If the mushrooms are large, you can tear them into smaller bite-sized pieces for easier eating.

Prepare the Breading:

  1. Make the Dry Coating:

    • In a shallow bowl or plate, combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

  2. Make the Wet Coating:

    • In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice) and egg. This will help the breading stick to the mushrooms.

Coat the Mushrooms:

  1. Dredge the Mushrooms:

    • Dip each mushroom piece into the wet mixture, coating it completely, and then dredge it in the dry coating mixture. Press the coating onto the mushrooms to ensure they are well-covered. Set aside on a plate.

Fry the Mushrooms:

  1. Heat the Oil:

    • In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is hot enough when it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test it by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the top, it's ready.

  2. Fry the Mushrooms:

    • Carefully place the coated mushroom pieces in the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through to cook evenly.

  3. Drain and Serve:

    • Use tongs to remove the mushrooms from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Serve the fried oyster mushrooms immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley (optional). Squeeze some fresh lemon wedges over the mushrooms before eating for an extra burst of flavor.

 

main courses & sidesSharie Lawless