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Fried Mushroom Bites

These Fried Mushroom Bites are crispy, golden, and packed with savory flavor in every bite. Fresh button or cremini mushrooms are coated in a seasoned batter, rolled in crunchy panko breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. They're an easy appetizer that's perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you're craving a restaurant-style snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 245

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound small button or cremini mushrooms cleaned and stems trimmed
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • For the Batter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cold water or club soda
  • For the Coating
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • For Serving
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic aioli
  • Cocktail sauce

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Deep heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or spider strainer
  • Wire rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and trim any long stems. Pat them completely dry so the coating adheres well.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the cold water until a smooth batter forms.
  3. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow bowl.
  4. Heat about 3 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Dip each mushroom into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Arrange the coated mushrooms on a tray while preparing the remaining batch.
  6. Working in batches, carefully lower the mushrooms into the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Transfer the fried mushrooms to a wire rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain briefly.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces while they're still hot and crisp.