Ingredients
For the Vegan Buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups almond milk (360 grams)
- 1 ½ tablespoon lemon juice (22 grams)
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (7 grams)
- Few drops of hot sauce (optional, to make it spicier)
For the Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (60 grams)
- ½ cup cornstarch (80 grams)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (2 grams)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (3 grams)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (2 grams)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (4 grams)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (2 grams)
Main Ingredient
- 10 ounces oyster mushrooms (283 grams)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (canola oil, peanut oil, or rice bran oil recommended)
Instructions
- Clean the Mushrooms: Gently wipe the oyster mushrooms with a paper towel to remove any dirt, ensuring they are clean but not soaked in water.
- Prepare the Coating Mix: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until evenly blended.
- Make Vegan Buttermilk: Mix almond milk with lemon juice and let it rest for 10 minutes to curdle, then add coconut sugar and optional hot sauce, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Soak Mushrooms: Pour the vegan buttermilk into a large bowl with the cleaned oyster mushrooms and toss gently to fully coat them. Allow the mushrooms to soak for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Coat the Mushrooms: Remove mushrooms one by one and dip each into the flour and spice mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a medium saucepan and heat it to approximately 350°F (180°C), using a thermometer to ensure the right frying temperature.
- Fry Mushrooms: Carefully place the coated mushrooms into the hot oil in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes per side until they achieve a golden brown crispy crust.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried mushrooms using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Use oyster mushrooms for their meaty texture that closely mimics chicken.
- Ensure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy or undercooked coating.
- Customize the spice mix to adjust the heat level to your preference.
- If you want extra crispiness, double dip the mushrooms by repeating the buttermilk soak and flour coating.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as the coating can soften if left too long.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan, American-inspired
- Diet: Vegan