Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Introduction

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms are the ultimate snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delicious dish to serve at a party, an addition to a meal, or simply something to enjoy while watching your favorite show, these garlic-battered fried mushrooms are sure to hit the spot. The combination of earthy mushrooms, a crispy garlic-infused batter, and the crunch of deep-frying creates a mouthwatering experience that will have you reaching for more.

There’s something irresistible about fried mushrooms, and when you add garlic to the mix, the flavor profile is taken to the next level. The garlicky seasoning enhances the mushrooms’ natural umami flavor, while the batter adds that satisfying crunch. Served with a tangy dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own, these garlic-battered fried mushrooms are perfect for all types of occasions, from casual gatherings to special dinners. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy this tasty treat anytime!

Why You’ll Love Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms

• Crispy Perfection: The garlic-infused batter creates a perfect crispy exterior, which complements the soft and juicy mushrooms inside.
• Flavored to Perfection: The addition of garlic elevates the flavor of the mushrooms, giving them an irresistible savory punch.
• Versatile Snack: Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these fried mushrooms are the perfect accompaniment to any meal or gathering.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appeal, these garlic-battered fried mushrooms are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and steps.
• Customizable: You can add additional herbs or spices to the batter to customize the flavor to your liking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on frying method)
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: 150-250 calories (depending on size and oil used)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150-250 kcal
• Fat: 10-18g
• Carbohydrates: 10-20g
• Protein: 3-5g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 1-3g

Ingredients

For the Garlic-Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (for crispiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup cold sparkling water or club soda (this helps make the batter light and crispy)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Mushrooms:

• 12-16 oz fresh button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms (you can also use portobello mushrooms, but smaller mushrooms work best)
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Dipping Sauce (Optional):

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing or garlic aioli (you can also use marinara sauce or any sauce of your choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Gently wipe them with a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove any dirt. Avoid rinsing them under water, as mushrooms are porous and can absorb moisture, which might affect the texture when frying.

After cleaning, remove the stems if you prefer, though leaving them on is also fine. Depending on the size of the mushrooms, you can leave them whole or slice them into halves or quarters. If you’re using larger mushrooms, like portobello, you may want to slice them into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat.

2. Make the Garlic Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. The baking powder is essential in creating a light, airy batter, which helps achieve the desired crispiness.

Next, slowly pour in the cold sparkling water or club soda, whisking continuously to create a smooth batter. The cold liquid helps the batter stay light and crisp when fried. Once the batter has a smooth consistency (not too thick, but able to coat the mushrooms), fold in the minced garlic. This adds a fresh, pungent garlic flavor to the batter itself.

3. Heat the Oil for Frying

In a deep frying pan or large skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is at the right temperature. You want the oil to be between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This ensures that the mushrooms fry quickly and become crispy without absorbing too much oil.

4. Coat the Mushrooms in the Batter

Once the oil is hot, dip each mushroom into the garlic batter, ensuring it is completely coated. You can use a fork to help coat the mushrooms evenly, ensuring they get a nice, thick layer of batter. Shake off any excess batter before carefully lowering them into the hot oil.

5. Fry the Mushrooms

Cook the mushrooms in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the batter is golden brown and crispy. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the mushrooms and the heat of the oil, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Once the mushrooms are fried, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crisp and prevents them from becoming soggy.

6. Serve and Garnish

After all the mushrooms are fried, arrange them on a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added burst of color and flavor. Serve the crispy garlic-battered mushrooms with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.

Tips for Perfect Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms

• Use Cold Water: Cold sparkling water or club soda is crucial for making the batter light and crispy. The cold liquid reacts with the flour to create air pockets, resulting in a fluffier texture once fried.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the mushrooms in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and cause the mushrooms to cook unevenly.
• Choose the Right Mushrooms: While button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are most common, you can experiment with other varieties. Larger mushrooms like portobello may require slicing to ensure they cook thoroughly and evenly.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the batter a more intense flavor than garlic powder alone. Don’t skip this step for the best garlic taste.
• Make Sure the Oil Is Hot Enough: To avoid soggy mushrooms, ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too cold, the batter will absorb more oil and become greasy. Too hot, and the mushrooms may burn on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
• Customize Your Batter: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the batter. Add some chili powder for a bit of heat, or experiment with Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist.

Variations of Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms

• Spicy Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha aioli.
• Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms: If you want to make your mushrooms extra indulgent, try stuffing them with cheese before battering and frying. Mozzarella or cream cheese work great.
• Vegan Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a non-dairy milk or water for the batter to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Parmesan Garlic Battered Fried Mushrooms: Add grated parmesan cheese to the batter for a savory, umami-packed flavor boost.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic-battered fried mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat them and maintain their crispiness, place the mushrooms on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

If you want to freeze them for later, place the fried mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms

• Garlic Bread: Pair these fried mushrooms with garlic bread for a full garlic-themed meal.
• Fresh Salad: Serve with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the fried mushrooms.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair them with other vegetable dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts, roasted cauliflower, or a creamy mashed potato side.
• Dips: Try offering a variety of dips alongside the mushrooms, including ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha dip.

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Conclusion

Garlic-Battered Fried Mushrooms are the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish, with a delightful garlic flavor that pairs perfectly with the crunchy batter and tender mushrooms. Easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event or as a fun family treat. With their crispy, golden coating and savory interior, these garlic-battered fried mushrooms are an irresistible indulgence. Try making them today and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic comfort food!