If you’re a fan of golden, crispy, and flavorful bites, these Garlic Parmesan Fried Mushrooms are about to be your new go-to!
With a light, crunchy coating of parmesan and crushed almond flour, these mushrooms are seasoned to perfection with garlic and Italian herbs.
The recipe also includes dairy and gluten free variations. Let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Not only are these mushrooms perfectly crispy, but they’re also wonderfully versatile. They make an ideal snack, appetizer, or side dish. Serve them alongside your favorite pasta, as a party platter, or even atop a salad for a unique twist. The garlic and herb seasoning is perfectly balanced, while the dairy-free parmesan provides that classic, savory “cheese” flavor without any dairy. And if you need them gluten-free, we’ve got you covered!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the base of this recipe, you’ll need two simple coating options, so you can go for a classic approach with regular flour or keep it gluten-free with almond flour. Here’s what you’ll need:
Option 1 (Regular):
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (use for a traditional coating)
- 1/4 cup dairy-free parmesan alternative, grated
- 1/2 cup almond flour, finely ground
Option 2 (Gluten-Free):
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup dairy-free parmesan alternative, grated
- 1/4 cup gluten-free flour blend (or chickpea flour)
Seasoning and Mushroom Prep
- 1 lb button or cremini mushrooms, stems trimmed and wiped clean
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, rosemary)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan alternative)
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of avocado or olive oil for extra crispiness
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Mushrooms
First, make sure to clean your mushrooms properly. Gently wipe them with a damp paper towel or cloth to remove any dirt. Avoid soaking them in water, as they can absorb it and become soggy. Once cleaned, trim the stems if needed and set them aside.
2. Set Up Your Coating Stations
In two shallow bowls, set up your coating stations:
- In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs. If you’re vegan, mix together 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
- In the second bowl, combine your chosen coating ingredients: flour (regular or gluten-free), dairy-free parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
3. Coat the Mushrooms
One by one, dip each mushroom into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off, then roll the mushroom in the seasoned coating mix. Press the coating gently to help it stick. Repeat until all mushrooms are coated.
4. Arrange for frying or Air Frying
To achieve a crispy texture without frying, you can use an oven or an air fryer.
For the frying:
In a deep skillet or medium saucepan, pour enough oil to reach about 1–2 inches in depth. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of coating into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Carefully add a few mushrooms at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (this helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even frying). Fry each mushroom for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
For the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for airflow.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through. Check for that perfect golden crisp; add an extra minute or two if needed for added crunch.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
As soon as they’re ready, serve these Garlic Parmesan Crusted Mushrooms hot for maximum flavor and crunch. They make a great addition to any meal and can be served with dipping sauces like marinara, garlic aioli, or a vegan ranch.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
- Pat Dry Your Mushrooms: Mushrooms have a high water content, so ensure they’re dry before coating for maximum crispiness.
- Choose the Right Coating: If you prefer a lighter texture, go with the gluten-free option using almond flour. For a denser, more traditional crust, the all-purpose flour is ideal.
- Use Cooking Spray for Extra Crunch: A light spray before baking or air frying adds a final layer of crispiness.
- Serve Immediately: These mushrooms are at their best when fresh out of the oven or air fryer. The coating stays crunchy, and the flavors are at their peak.
Why Almond Flour Works So Well
Almond flour adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic and dairy-free parmesan. It also crisps up nicely, making it a fantastic alternative for gluten-free eaters. Almond flour is nutrient-dense, providing a boost of protein and healthy fats, which makes this coating nutritious as well as delicious.
Dipping Sauces for an Extra Kick
These crispy mushrooms are delicious on their own, but dipping them takes things to the next level. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Marinara Sauce: Classic and tangy, marinara pairs well with the Italian herbs and garlic in the coating.
- Dairy-Free Garlic Aioli: Mix vegan mayo with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a creamy, garlic-infused dip.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For a bit of heat, stir some Sriracha into vegan mayo. It adds an extra punch to each bite.
Recipe Variations
- Paleo Version: Use only almond flour and dairy-free parmesan. Skip the gluten-free or all-purpose flour.
- Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs, and double-check that your dairy-free parmesan is vegan.
Storing Leftovers
These mushrooms are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and crisp them up again, place them in an air fryer for a few minutes or in a hot oven. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Crusted Mushrooms are the ultimate snack or appetizer for any occasion. With a dairy-free and gluten-free option, they cater to various dietary needs while delivering a big punch of flavor. The nutty almond flour, garlic, Italian herbs, and cheesy dairy-free parmesan combine perfectly, creating a crispy, satisfying bite. Try them for your next gathering or as a healthy indulgence, and you’ll have everyone coming back for more!
