Craving a crispy, savory snack that’s completely plant-based? Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms are a Vegan Fried Chicken alternative that delivers a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender, meaty interior. These crispy mushroom bites are perfect for game nights, appetizers, or a guilt-free treat, with a quick air fryer prep that’s healthier than deep frying. Packed with bold spices and a light batter, this plant-based fried mushroom dish is sure to impress. Let’s make these Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms and enjoy a delicious vegan twist!
Why You’ll Love Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
- Crispy Perfection: These Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms offer a fried chicken-like crunch.
- Plant-Based: A meaty, vegan-friendly golden oyster mushroom snack.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthier Choice: Air frying cuts oil for lighter crispy mushroom bites.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side for any occasion.
Ingredients for Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
Here’s what you’ll need for these plant-based fried mushrooms (serves 4):
Mushrooms:
- 8–10 large oyster mushrooms (about 2 cups / 200g), fresh and firm
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
Spice Mix:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Batter:
- ¾ cup (180ml) plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp baking powder
Serving (Optional):
- Hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or vegan ranch
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Two mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Ingredient Tips
- Mushrooms: Choose plump, fresh oyster mushrooms for the best Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms texture.
- Flour: Swap for gluten-free flour for dietary-friendly crispy mushroom bites.
- Cornstarch: Essential for a crunchy plant-based fried mushroom coating.
- Plant-Based Milk: Oat milk works if avoiding soy or nuts in this golden oyster mushroom snack.
- Dipping Sauce: Vegan ranch adds a creamy contrast to these crispy mushroom bites.
Directions for Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
Let’s make these Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms—a perfect plant-based fried mushroom treat!
Prepare the Mushrooms
I gently clean 8–10 oyster mushrooms with a damp paper towel to avoid sogginess, trimming any tough stems for this golden oyster mushroom snack.
Mix the Dry Batter
In a large bowl, I whisk 1 cup flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp salt for a flavorful crispy mushroom bite coating.
Prepare the Wet Batter
In another bowl, I combine ¾ cup plant-based milk with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for 2 minutes to form a tangy “buttermilk.” I stir in 1 tsp baking powder for a frothy batter that ensures crunchy plant-based fried mushrooms.
Coat the Mushrooms
I dip each mushroom in the dry flour mix, then the wet batter, letting excess drip off, and back into the dry mix, pressing lightly for a double-coated golden oyster mushroom snack.
Air Fry
I preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). I lightly spray the mushrooms with oil and place them in a single layer in the basket, air frying for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy for this Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms dish.
Serve
I serve hot with hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or vegan ranch, enjoying these crispy mushroom bites immediately.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
- Servings: 4 (about ½ cup per serving)
- Calories: ~150–200 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 3g protein, 5g fat, 2g fiber
Variations
Try these twists on this plant-based fried mushroom:
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne to the spice mix, inspired by LaylaCooks’ Roasted Jalapeno Popper Grilled Cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tapioca starch for dietary-friendly crispy mushroom bites.
- Herb Boost: Mix in dried thyme or oregano for aromatic golden oyster mushroom snacks.
- Soy-Free: Use oat milk instead of soy for a soy-free plant-based fried mushroom.
- Panko Crunch: Swap half the flour for panko breadcrumbs for extra-crisp Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with LaylaCooks’ Cucumber Blueberry Feta Salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with LaylaCooks’ Vanilla Raspberry Iced Latte for a light pairing.
- Enjoy with LaylaCooks’ The Best Peach Sorbet for a vegan dessert.
Storage
I store leftover golden oyster mushroom snacks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave for this plant-based fried mushroom.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve these Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms on a platter with dipping sauces.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra parsley or paprika for color.
- Pairing: Pair with fries or LaylaCooks’ Coconut Cooler for balance.
- Portion Size: ½ cup per person as an appetizer or side.
- Occasions: Ideal for game nights, parties, or vegan-friendly gatherings.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Why use oyster mushrooms?
Their meaty texture mimics chicken in these Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms, perfect for vegan dishes.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and tapioca starch for gluten-free crispy mushroom bites.
Why double-coat the mushrooms?
It ensures a crunchy coating for this plant-based fried mushroom dish.
Can I bake instead of air fry?
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, for golden oyster mushroom snacks.
How do I keep them crispy?
Serve immediately and reheat in an air fryer to maintain Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms crunch.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
- Air Fryer Eggplant Asian Style
- Smoked Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Conclusion
Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms are a crispy, plant-based delight that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. These golden oyster mushroom snacks are perfect for any occasion. Whip up this plant-based fried mushroom dish, share with loved ones, and enjoy its crunchy, savory goodness!
Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms
Ingredients
For the Mushrooms:
- 8 –10 large oyster mushrooms about 2 cups / 200g, fresh and firm
- 1 cup 125g all-purpose flour
- ½ cup 60g cornstarch
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For the Wet Batter:
- ¾ cup 180ml plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp baking powder
For Serving (Optional):
- Hot sauce BBQ sauce, or vegan ranch
Instructions
Prepare the Mushrooms
- I gently clean 8–10 oyster mushrooms with a damp paper towel to avoid sogginess, trimming any tough stems for this golden oyster mushroom snack.
Mix the Dry Batter
- In a large bowl, I whisk 1 cup flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp salt for a flavorful crispy mushroom bite coating.
Prepare the Wet Batter
- In another bowl, I combine ¾ cup plant-based milk with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for 2 minutes to form a tangy “buttermilk.” I stir in 1 tsp baking powder for a frothy batter that ensures crunchy plant-based fried mushrooms.
Coat the Mushrooms
- I dip each mushroom in the dry flour mix, then the wet batter, letting excess drip off, and back into the dry mix, pressing lightly for a double-coated golden oyster mushroom snack.
Air Fry
- I preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). I lightly spray the mushrooms with oil and place them in a single layer in the basket, air frying for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy for this Air Fried Oyster Mushrooms dish.
Serve
- I serve hot with hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or vegan ranch, enjoying these crispy mushroom bites immediately.
Notes
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