Crispy Fried Mushrooms: How to Prepare an Even More Delicious Side Dish!

Crunchy and outrageously snackable, crispy fried mushrooms are what you serve when plain fries just won’t cut it. They are earthy cremini mushrooms dipped in garlic-soy batter, and rolled in breadcrumbs. This recipe doesn’t just aim for crispy, it commits to it.

These mushroom bites are perfect for mushroom skeptics and mushroom superfans alike. They deliver all the umami without the squeaky chew some folks fear.

Crispy Fried Mushrooms: What Are They Exactly?

This dish doesn’t have deep roots in any single cuisine but takes inspiration from classic pub food, Japanese tempura, and good ol’ Southern fried techniques. You’ll find variations everywhere, from tapas bars in Spain to street stalls in Thailand, because the idea of deep-frying mushrooms is universally brilliant.

Mushrooms have been fried since at least the 1800s. In old French and Italian cooking, they were lightly fried and served with herbs and lemon.

Pro Tips for The Best Crispy Fried Mushrooms

• Dry the mushrooms well before dipping. Waterlogged mushrooms can make the oil spit and the coating slide off.
• Fry in batches as overcrowding the pan drops the oil temperature and leads to a soggy dish.
• The type of breadcrumbs you use matter. Go for panko if you want extra-crispy results, or regular for a tighter crumb.
• Let them rest on a wire rack to drain the oil instead of paper towels to keep the bottom crisp.

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes! While cremini mushrooms have that ideal balance of size and flavor, you can experiment with button, oyster, or even portobello chunks. Just make sure they’re cut evenly so they cook at the same rate.

What can I serve with crispy fried mushrooms?

These pair great with just about any dip, such as ranch, aioli, sweet chili sauce, or even a herbed yogurt dip. They also work great as a side to sandwiches, burgers, or grilled meats.

Can I air fry them?

You can! Spray them lightly with oil and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

How thick should the batter be?

Aim for pancake batter consistency, thick enough to coat the mushroom but not so heavy it clumps. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water; too thin, sprinkle in more flour.

Why add baking powder?

Baking powder helps puff up the batter slightly, making it lighter and crispier once fried. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big textural difference.

How to Store Any Leftovers

You can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer, but skip the microwave unless you're specifically craving soggy mushrooms. Freezing is not recommended as the texture won’t survive the thaw.

How to Make Crispy Fried Mushrooms

Step 1

Step 1

The first step is to clean your cremini mushrooms

The first step is to clean your cremini mushrooms

Step 2

Step 2

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.

Step 3

Step 3

Add into your dry ingredients, minced garlic and soy sauce, then slowly pour in the water. Keep whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Add into your dry ingredients, minced garlic and soy sauce, then slowly pour in the water. Keep whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 4

Step 4

Dip each mushroom into the batter, letting any extra drip off.

Dip each mushroom into the batter, letting any extra drip off.

Step 5

Step 5

Roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated. You’re building that armor of crunch here, so don’t be shy.

Roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated. You’re building that armor of crunch here, so don’t be shy.

Step 6

Step 6

Heat your oil and fry in batches for around 5 minutes, or until the outside is golden and crisp.

Heat your oil and fry in batches for around 5 minutes, or until the outside is golden and crisp.

Step 7

Step 7

Serve while still hot and serve with a dip.

Serve while still hot and serve with a dip.