Description
Crispy Fried Mushrooms with Cool Ranch Dip is a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. The mushrooms are battered and fried to golden perfection, offering a crispy exterior and tender interior, while the creamy Cool Ranch dip complements their flavor with a tangy twist. This dish is a hit at parties, game nights, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fried Mushrooms:
- 16 oz (450g) fresh mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed (or kept, depending on preference)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Cool Ranch Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mushrooms:
- Rinse and pat dry the mushrooms, then remove the stems (or keep them intact if preferred).
- Set aside.
-
Make the Breading:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth.
-
Bread the Mushrooms:
- Dip each mushroom into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Then, roll the mushroom in the dry flour mixture until well coated. Repeat with all mushrooms.
-
Fry the Mushrooms:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Carefully drop the coated mushrooms into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the mushrooms with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
-
Make the Cool Ranch Dip:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning mix, lemon juice, and dried dill (if using).
- Stir until well combined.
-
Serve:
- Serve the crispy fried mushrooms warm with the Cool Ranch Dip on the side for dipping.
Notes
- If you prefer a lighter coating, use a combination of panko breadcrumbs and flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the ranch dip.
- These mushrooms are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to restore some of the crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crispy fried mushrooms, ranch dip, fried mushrooms, appetizer, snack, cool ranch dip, party snacks, comfort food
