Fried Mushrooms Parmesan
Crispy fried mushrooms coated in a Parmesan batter, offering savory flavors and a crunchy texture, perfect as an appetizer or snack for mushroom lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 or 3 inches of shortening in a deep frying pan.
- Combine all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
- Stir in cold water, melted shortening, and the slightly beaten egg.
- Beat the mixture until smooth.
- Dip sliced mushrooms into the batter, allowing excess to drain off.
- Fry the coated mushrooms in the heated shortening for about 3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Turn the mushrooms as needed to ensure even browning.
- Remove the fried mushrooms and drain on paper towels.
- Lightly salt the mushrooms before serving.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, ensure your batter is well-mixed but not over-beaten. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. If you prefer, use grated Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a stronger flavor. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile, giving a slight kick to your fried mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
These Fried Mushrooms Parmesan can be served as a delightful appetizer or snack. Pair them with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy them alongside a fresh Romantic Salad for a balanced meal. They also complement a variety of main dishes, adding a savory touch to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Mushrooms Parmesan contains roughly 486 calories, with 7g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1989mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe?
While fresh mushrooms are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen mushrooms. Thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before dipping them in the batter. Be aware that frozen mushrooms may release more water during frying, affecting the crispiness.
What type of shortening is best for frying?
For frying, a good quality vegetable shortening or lard is recommended due to their high smoke points. This helps achieve a crispy exterior without burning. Avoid using olive oil or butter for frying as they have lower smoke points and may affect the taste and texture.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast. Additionally, replace the shortening with a neutral vegetable oil suitable for frying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).