Fried Oyster Mushroom

Ingredients: For the Mushroom Marinade: 

1 pound fresh oyster mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed 

1 cups water or plant-based milk 

2 tablespoons pickle brine (from a jar of dill pickles) 

1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference) -

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon dried basil

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

For Frying:

Vegetable oil for frying Instructions:

1. Start by cleaning and trimming the oyster mushrooms. Separate the clusters into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk or water, pickle brine, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create the mushroom marinade. Add the cleaned mushrooms and toss them to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more flavor.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the seasoned breading mixture.

4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).

5. Take the marinated mushroom pieces, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, and coat them thoroughly with the seasoned breading mixture.

6. Carefully place the breaded mushrooms into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

7. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fried mushrooms from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

8. Sprinkle the hot fried oyster mushrooms with a pinch of salt while they are still fresh from the fryer.

9. Serve your vegan fried oyster mushrooms hot with your favorite vegan dipping sauce or on a sandwich with pickles and vegan mayo. Enjoy these heavily seasoned, crispy fried oyster mushrooms that mimic the flavor of your favorite fast-food fried chicken!