Deep-Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Deep-Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed with the original yield in mind. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Please note, not all recipes scale perfectly.

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups oil for frying, or as needed
  • 1 pound button mushrooms, quartered

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1

Gather all your ingredients and set them on the countertop for easy access.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, stir together the flour and garlic salt until well combined.

Step 3

Add the water and egg to the bowl and mix until smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4

Heat the oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil temperature by dropping in a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and float to the top.

Step 5

Working in small batches, dip the quartered mushrooms into the batter, making sure they're evenly coated. Fry them in the hot oil for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6

Once the mushrooms are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value
Calories 127 -
Total Fat 7g 8%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 23mg 8%
Sodium 239mg 10%
Total Carbohydrate 14g 5%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 1g -
Protein 4g 8%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 9mg 1%
Iron 1mg 6%
Potassium 207mg 4%

Note: Nutrition data includes the full amount of breading ingredients. The actual breading consumed may vary. Oil retention is estimated at 10%, though it can vary based on cooking time, temperature, and the type of oil used.

For those following a medically restricted diet, please consult a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Deep-Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Deep-Fried Mushrooms

Recipe by: Angel Marcelino

Origin and History

Deep-fried mushrooms are a popular dish in many cultures, particularly in American and European cuisine. While the exact origin of deep-fried mushrooms is unclear, the practice of deep frying vegetables and fungi can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Frying in oil became widespread during the 18th and 19th centuries as cooking technology advanced. In the United States, deep-fried mushrooms became a popular appetizer and bar food, particularly in the Southern states, where deep-frying is a staple method of cooking. The use of button mushrooms in this recipe is typical, as they are readily available and have a mild flavor that pairs well with a crispy batter.

Regional Variations

While deep-fried mushrooms are widely enjoyed across many regions, variations exist depending on the region's local ingredients and flavor profiles. For instance, in the Southern U.S., you might find deep-fried mushrooms served with a spicy dipping sauce, such as ranch or a mixture of hot sauce and buttermilk. In Europe, particularly in countries like Italy and Germany, different mushrooms may be used, such as porcini or morels, and these are often coated with breadcrumbs before being fried. The batter can also vary, with some recipes using beer for a lighter, crispier texture. Additionally, some regions might add herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

What Makes It Different from Similar Dishes?

Deep-fried mushrooms stand out from similar dishes like deep-fried zucchini or onion rings due to their unique texture. The mushrooms provide a soft, juicy interior that contrasts with the crispy, golden-brown exterior. This dish is also distinguished by its simple batter, which typically consists of flour, egg, and water, rather than the heavier breadcrumbs or cornmeal used in other fried vegetables. The mild, earthy flavor of the mushrooms is enhanced by the garlic salt in the batter, giving it a distinctive taste that's different from other deep-fried appetizers.

Where Are Deep-Fried Mushrooms Typically Served?

Deep-fried mushrooms are a common feature on appetizer menus at bars, restaurants, and pubs, particularly in the United States. They're a favorite at casual dining spots and are often served alongside a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic butter. These mushrooms are also popular at fairs and festivals, where fried foods are a staple. In some regions, deep-fried mushrooms are a common addition to a mixed platter of fried appetizers, offering a vegetable-based option alongside items like mozzarella sticks and onion rings.

Interesting Facts

  • Button mushrooms, the most commonly used type for deep-frying, are also known as white mushrooms and are cultivated worldwide.
  • Deep-fried mushrooms are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a relatively healthy fried snack when enjoyed in moderation.
  • The crispy texture of the batter helps to lock in the natural moisture of the mushroom, keeping the interior juicy while the exterior remains crunchy.
  • While mushrooms are typically thought of as a healthy food, frying them in oil adds a significant amount of fat. However, opting for a healthier oil, such as olive oil, can provide a better fat profile.
  • In some cultures, fried mushrooms are considered a delicacy, especially when using wild mushrooms such as chanterelles or morels, which are known for their earthy flavor and rarity.

FAQ about Deep-Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Leftover deep-fried mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispness, it’s best to reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, rather than microwaving.

Yes, you can freeze deep-fried mushrooms. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Yes, you can use different types of mushrooms, such as portobello, cremini, or shiitake, instead of button mushrooms. Just be aware that larger mushrooms may need to be cut into smaller pieces to ensure they cook properly in the batter.

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before using, give it a quick stir as it may thicken slightly over time. If needed, add a little water to adjust the consistency.

Deep-fried mushrooms are great served with dipping sauces like ranch, garlic butter, or marinara. They can also be paired with a fresh salad or served as a side dish with steak or pasta.

Yes, you can use other types of flour, such as rice flour for a gluten-free option, or self-rising flour for a lighter, puffier texture. Keep in mind that different flours may affect the crispness and texture of the batter.

If the batter is too thick, add a little more water to thin it out. If it's too thin, add a small amount of flour to thicken it. The ideal batter consistency should be similar to pancake batter — not too runny but able to coat the mushrooms.

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great options for frying deep-fried mushrooms because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and may affect the flavor.

To make the mushrooms extra crispy, you can freeze the batter-coated mushrooms for about 15 minutes before frying. Additionally, using a double coating of batter or rolling the mushrooms in breadcrumbs after dipping them in batter can help achieve a crispier texture.

If you don't have garlic salt, you can use regular salt and garlic powder as a substitute. A good ratio is 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 1 teaspoon of garlic salt, and adjust to taste.

Comments

Victoria Carter

02/09/2024 03:32:43 AM

We absolutely adored these. It's a top choice for us when dining out, and I'm thrilled to have finally found a recipe that replicates our favorite dish. Definitely a keeper. Thanks for sharing!

Jacob Brown

08/24/2024 07:24:02 AM

Absolutely delicious! I decided to tweak the recipe a bit by incorporating Saison beer instead of water, adding 1 tsp of garlic galore, 1 tsp of absolutely onion blend, and 3/4 tsp of season salt. I opted to fry them in a cast iron pan and placed them on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels to drain, resulting in perfectly crisp results!

Ashley Hill

09/11/2022 02:44:15 AM

Just like many others, I decided to customize the spices to my liking. I used a blend of Cayenne, white pepper, and chili powder for an extra kick. Another tip for extra crispiness is to chill the batter in the freezer for around 30 minutes while waiting for the oil to heat up. (A little tempura batter hack)

Jeffrey Ramirez

03/26/2025 06:58:11 PM

I had some baby portobello mushrooms to use and came across this batter recipe. I made a slight modification and used beer instead of water. The carbonation from the beer made the batter incredibly light. Seltzer water could also be used for a similar result. As the batter was more than enough for the mushrooms, I sliced some Vidalia onions and fried them up. It was like enjoying bar food in the comfort of my own home. Thanks for sharing this recipe.

Frank Rodriguez

12/13/2023 09:28:41 AM

Decent, but could use some extra kick. I deep-fried it until golden and crispy. I whipped up a dip with mayo, lemon juice, horseradish, and milk. Reminded me of the dips we've had with this dish before. Next time, I'll add cayenne and extra garlic for more flavor.

William Garcia

10/12/2022 12:28:00 AM

The first time I prepared these mushrooms, we weren't fond of the batter - it was too mushy. So, the next time, we dipped the mushrooms in beaten egg and then coated them with Italian breadcrumbs (which already contained garlic and spices). They turned out fantastic - crispy and delicious. We enjoyed them dipped in Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing.

Joyce Rivera

05/20/2025 01:46:51 PM

Amazing flavor!! The crust is incredibly light and crispy, just the right thickness. The mushroom taste comes through perfectly. The preparation was simple and quick. We decided to enhance the flavor with additional seasonings like seasoned salt, garlic powder (instead of garlic salt), onion powder, pepper, and regular salt. Everyone agreed that these mushrooms surpassed any restaurant version. Highly recommended!

Lisa Wilson

09/26/2023 02:49:51 AM

I enhanced the flavor by incorporating additional seasonings such as pepper, onion powder, seasoning salt, and a salt-free all-purpose seasoning or Mrs. Dash. Furthermore, I opted to slice my mushrooms in half instead of quarters. For my next attempt, I plan to introduce breadcrumbs in the hope of achieving a crispier texture.

Anna Lee

08/23/2024 10:11:40 AM

I tried out the recipe and the result was satisfactory. The texture was just right - not mushy but crunchy, which I prefer. My only issue was that it lacked flavor, so I decided to season the mushrooms with garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of pepper. To enhance the taste, I included an additional teaspoon of garlic salt and pepper in the flour mixture. Despite the added salt, it didn't turn out too salty. I would definitely make this dish again.

James Williams

08/29/2023 02:24:36 PM

Delicious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I sprinkled garlic powder on the mushrooms and tossed them. I seasoned the flour mixture with onion powder, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. I was heavy-handed on the garlic, and that paid off. My partner said it tasted like restaurant food. Dipping them in ranch made them even better! Overall, the best!

Kevin Wright

02/08/2025 10:49:43 AM

I enhanced the flavor by incorporating garlic powder, cayenne, and black pepper for an extra kick. The batter appeared slightly thin, suggesting that it might benefit from a reduction in the amount of water used.

Tyler Garcia

12/05/2022 07:13:15 PM

Add parsley flakes for an attractive appearance.

Karen Martinez

10/24/2023 11:36:33 PM

Next time, I will try using only half of the ingredients. I made a small portion of mushrooms and they turned out amazing.

Edward Young

10/14/2022 04:54:23 PM

Flawless

Debra Rivera

11/16/2023 11:13:47 PM

These were incredibly enjoyable to munch on!! 😄

Richard Martin

05/14/2024 01:30:58 AM

I enhanced the flavor with a dash of Tabasco, otherwise sticking to the recipe as instructed. It turned out delicious and was simple to prepare.

Melissa Parker

04/11/2023 11:17:21 AM

Simple and fast recipe

Brian Garcia

02/11/2023 08:48:04 AM

I've been searching for something with the perfect crunch, and this recipe delivers! I made a few adjustments by adding Cajun spices, but I stuck to the rest of the recipe exactly. I also swapped all-purpose flour for self-rising flour, as I heard that the baking powder in it helps create a crispier batter. I absolutely loved the result and will definitely be making this recipe again!! Thank you for sharing! 😊

Donna Robinson

04/22/2023 04:27:21 PM

I absolutely adored it! I enhanced the flavor by incorporating cayenne powder and garlic salt into the flour. After coating them in the seasoned flour mixture, I rolled them in plain breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. It turned out delicious and satisfyingly crispy.

Anthony Turner

12/14/2023 09:16:27 AM

I substituted almond flour for regular flour and added garlic powder. It turned out delicious.