Deep Fried Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 250 g fresh Oyster mushrooms

• 1 cup plain flour

• ½ cup cornflour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 cup cold sparkling water (or regular water)

• Neutral oil for frying (sunflower or rice bran)

• Lemon wedges and dipping sauce to serve
  

Method

1. Prep your mushrooms
   Gently tear large clusters into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry if damp.

2. Make the batter
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornflour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Slowly add sparkling water until you have a smooth, slightly thick batter.

3. Heat the oil
   Pour oil into a deep pan or pot to about 3 cm depth. Heat to 180 °C — a small drop of batter should sizzle and rise quickly.

4. Fry in batches
   Dip mushrooms into the batter, letting excess drip off, then carefully place into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

5. Drain and serve
   Remove with tongs and place on a paper towel. Sprinkle with a little salt while hot.

Serving ideas

Serve with lemon wedges and aioli or spicy mayo for dipping.
Try them in tacos with slaw and hot sauce, or pair with chips and a cold drink for the ultimate weekend treat.