Fried Sliced Mushrooms with Ranch

Instructions

Prepare the Coating Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls or plates. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and the breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the third.

Coat the Mushrooms:
Begin by dredging each mushroom slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip the floured mushroom slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Finally, press the egg-coated mushroom slice into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. Repeat this process for all the mushroom slices.

Heat the Oil:
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large frying pan to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb; it should sizzle and start to brown immediately.

Fry the Mushrooms:
Carefully add the coated mushroom slices to the hot oil in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Cook the mushrooms for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip the mushrooms halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Once fried, transfer the mushrooms to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Lightly sprinkle with additional salt while they’re still hot, if desired.

Serve:
Arrange the fried mushrooms on a serving platter and serve immediately with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips and Variations

. Seasoning the Breadcrumbs: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, or dried herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
. Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour for a bit of heat in your fried mushrooms.
. Alternative Coating: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Almond flour can also be used instead of all-purpose flour.
. Dipping Sauces: While ranch dressing is a classic choice, these fried mushrooms also pair well with aioli, marinara sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
. Oven-Baked Option: For a lighter version, you can bake the coated mushrooms in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking spray before baking to achieve a crispy exterior.
Fried sliced mushrooms with ranch dressing are a delightful snack that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This dish is versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack during movie night. With a quick preparation and fry time, these mushrooms are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy them hot and fresh, dipped in your favorite ranch dressing for a comforting and satisfying treat!