Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional:
- Pinch of chili flakes for heat
- Lemon wedges for serving
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Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels or wire rack
- Knife and cutting board
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Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove dirt—don’t rinse under water, as mushrooms soak up moisture. Halve or quarter them depending on size for bite-size pieces.
Optional: Lightly salt the mushrooms and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and helps keep them crisp.
Pat them dry before coating.
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Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station
You’ll need three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour mixed with salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs with minced garlic stirred in.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and herbs.
The garlic in the egg wash infuses flavor directly into the mushroom coating.
Step 3: Coat the Mushrooms
One at a time, dip each mushroom piece in flour (shake off excess), then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press lightly to ensure a good coating.
Pro tip: Double dip for extra crunch—repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
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Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add mushrooms in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Alternative: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Or air-fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.
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Step 5: Finish with Garlic & Garnish
Optional but awesome: While still hot, toss the crispy bites with a little more freshly minced garlic, chili flakes, or chopped parsley. This adds even more depth and aroma.
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Step 6: Serve and Dip
Serve your Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites hot with your favorite dip:
- Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Yogurt-dill sauce
Add a wedge of lemon on the side for brightness.