If you’ve been searching for a delicious, crispy, and satisfying vegan alternative to fried chicken, look no further than this fried enoki mushroom recipe. With their unique texture and ability to soak up flavors, enoki mushrooms are the perfect base for this dish. Coated in a flavorful batter and fried to golden perfection, these mushrooms are an irresistible snack, appetizer, or main course. Whether you’re a mushroom lover or simply curious about trying something new, this recipe will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for Everyone: Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just exploring meatless options, this dish is sure to impress.
A Vegan Fried Chicken Dupe: The enoki mushrooms’ naturally stringy texture mimics the juiciness and crunch of fried chicken, making it a fantastic plant-based alternative.
Packed with Flavor: With a batter infused with garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and Kashmiri chili powder, every bite is bursting with bold and savory notes.
Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a snack or a quick meal.
Texture and Taste: Why Enoki Mushrooms Shine
Enoki mushrooms are known for their stringy, almost noodle-like texture, which becomes irresistibly crispy when fried. Unlike other mushrooms, they have a delicate flavor that pairs well with bold seasonings, making them the ideal base for this recipe. Their unique texture mimics shredded meat, creating a fried chicken dupe that’s ultra satisfying and realistic.
Key Ingredients
If you want to make the best fried enoki mushrooms, make sure you have the following ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 2 large enoki mushrooms
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup water
For Frying:
- 2-3 cups vegetable or canola oil (for deep frying)
How to Make Fried Enoki Mushroom Chicken
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, Kashmiri chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Gradually add the water, whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free. The consistency should be slightly thick but still pourable.
- Prep the Enoki Mushrooms: Gently trim the base end of the enoki mushrooms.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy or test with a drop of batter—it should sizzle immediately.
- Coat and Fry: Dip each enoki mushroom cluster into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Let any excess batter drip off. Carefully place the battered mushrooms into the hot oil, and fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the fried enoki mushrooms to a serving plate. Pair with your favorite vegan dipping sauce and enjoy!
Looking For More Recipes? Check These Out!
Yes! While frying gives the crispiest results, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and flip halfway through for even crispiness.
I recommend checking your local Asian grocery stores such as Hmart or Uwajimaya. They have the best selection of mushrooms available and are cheaper than other grocery stores.
Fried Enoki Mushroom: Vegan Fried Chicken Dupe
Ingredients
- 2 large Enoki Mushrooms
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tps garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kashmiri chili power
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, Kashmiri chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Gradually add the water, whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free. The consistency should be slightly thick but still pourable.
- Prep the Enoki Mushrooms: Gently trim the base end of the enoki mushrooms.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy or test with a drop of batter—it should sizzle immediately.
- Coat and Fry: Dip each enoki mushroom cluster into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Let any excess batter drip off. Carefully place the battered mushrooms into the hot oil, and fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the fried enoki mushrooms to a serving plate. Pair with your favorite vegan dipping sauce and enjoy!
What did you think of this recipe?