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Easy Zaxby’s Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Zaxby’s Fried Mushrooms Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD
As an avid food lover and self-proclaimed kitchen experimenter, I’ve spent many happy hours enjoying this crunchy, golden dish. It’s a favorite comfort food that offers an irresistible crunch and umami blast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 178 kcal

Equipment

  • Deep saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces fresh mushrooms preferably button or mini-portabellas, cleaned, patted dry, and stems trimmed
  • 1 cup cultured buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Dipping sauce such as creamy ranch dressing, tangy ketchup, or your preferred dip

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

  • Clean the mushrooms thoroughly. Use a damp cloth to wipe them. This method keeps them from getting too soggy. Trim the stems if necessary and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Coating

  • In a bowl, pour the cultured buttermilk. This step is crucial as it helps the flour adhere better to the mushrooms. You can let them soak for about 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In another bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and baking soda. Stir them together until they are well mixed. This mix is where the flavor magic begins.

Step 4: Coat the Mushrooms

  • Remove the mushrooms from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each mushroom in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure they’re evenly coated. This process ensures that every bite will be crispy and flavorful.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

  • In a deep saucepan or a frying pan, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a little flour in; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry.

Step 6: Fry the Mushrooms

  • Carefully add the coated mushrooms to the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry them in batches if necessary. Fry until they turn golden brown, usually 3–4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, allowing excess oil to drain.

Step 7: Serve

  • Enjoy your fried mushrooms hot with your chosen dipping sauce. The flavor explosion is just a moment away!

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Always use the freshest mushrooms available. They should be firm to the touch and have a pleasant smell.
  • Control Your Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside may cook too quickly, burning before the inside is done. Conversely, oil that’s too cool might result in soggy mushrooms.
  • Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier texture, dip the mushrooms back into the buttermilk after the first coating and then re-dredge them in the flour mixture.
  • Let Them Drain: After frying, place the mushrooms on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help remove excess oil.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other spices to your flour mix, like cayenne for heat or Parmesan for extra savory goodness.

Nutrition

Serving: 92gCalories: 178kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 0.9gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 769mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3g
Keyword Zaxby’s Fried Mushrooms Recipe
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