Fried sliced mushrooms with ranch are a delicious and crispy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. The combination of thickly sliced mushrooms, seasoned breading, and a creamy ranch dip creates a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to be a hit. This recipe is easy to follow and results in perfectly golden, crunchy mushrooms every time. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a side dish, these fried mushrooms are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh mushrooms, wiped clean and thickly sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Homemade or store-bought ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
- Clean the Mushrooms: Wipe the mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel. Avoid washing them under water as they can absorb moisture and become soggy.
- Slice the Mushrooms: Thickly slice the mushrooms to ensure they hold up well during frying.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, add the all-purpose flour and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine.
- Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Breadcrumbs: In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Mushrooms
- Dredge in Flour: Coat each mushroom slice in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg: Next, dip the floured mushrooms into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Coat in Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the mushrooms in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
Step 4: Fry the Mushrooms
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). There should be enough oil to submerge the mushrooms.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place the breaded mushrooms into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried mushrooms with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with a pinch of salt while still hot.
Step 5: Serve
- Ranch Dressing: Serve the fried mushrooms hot with a side of homemade or store-bought ranch dressing for dipping.
Cooking Notes
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and adjust the heat as needed.
- Breading: For an extra crispy coating, you can double bread the mushrooms by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the mushrooms a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use any type of fresh mushroom you prefer. Button mushrooms, cremini, or portobello mushrooms all work well for this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fried mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What other dips can I serve with these mushrooms?
In addition to ranch dressing, these fried mushrooms are delicious with marinara sauce, aioli, or honey mustard.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
For a healthier version, you can bake the breaded mushrooms in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the flour with almond flour or coconut flour and use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for the coating. Serve with a keto-friendly ranch dressing.
Fried sliced mushrooms with ranch dressing are a delightful appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. The crispy, seasoned coating combined with the tender mushrooms and creamy ranch dip make for an irresistible combination. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a special treat, this recipe is a must-try for mushroom lovers. Enjoy this delicious dish and share it with friends and family. Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts and any variations you try in the comments below!