Name: Vegan Fried Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 7 oz Pearl Oyster Mushrooms; 1 cup Dairy-Free Milk; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Sweet Smoked Paprika Powder; 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste); 1 tsp Ground Cumin Seeds; 1 tsp Oregano; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1 cup Yellow Corn Flour; 2 tsp Fried Chicken Seasoning; 2 cups Corn Flakes (crushed); 2 Tbsp Corn Starch

If you’ve been searching for a crispy, flavorful, and entirely plant-based alternative to traditional fried chicken, look no further! This Vegan Fried Chicken recipe features succulent pearl oyster mushrooms that are marinated and seasoned to perfection, creating a delightful crunch that you won’t believe is meat-free. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a picnic, or even a game-day feast. With a blend of spices that packs a punch and a crispy cornflake coating, you’ll find this dish irresistible.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Crunchy Texture: The cornflake coating gives a satisfying crunch that mimics the classic fried chicken experience.
Flavor Explosion: A carefully curated mix of spices infuses the mushrooms with rich flavors.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Versatile Dish: Serve it with your favorite sides or toss it in a salad for a delightful meal.
Plant-Based Goodness: Enjoy a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from mushrooms.

Your Shopping Guide

7 oz Pearl Oyster Mushrooms: These tender mushrooms are the star of the dish, providing a meaty texture.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth and an unmistakable flavor to the marinade.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder for a savory blend.
Sweet Smoked Paprika Powder: Gives a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
Cayenne Pepper: Adds a touch of heat; adjust to taste.
Ground Cumin Seeds: Provides an earthy, warm flavor.
Oregano: A classic herb that enhances the overall seasoning.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors.
Dairy-Free Milk: To soak the mushrooms and make the coating stick.
Yellow Corn Flour: Creates a light batter for frying.
Corn Flakes: The secret to an ultra-crispy exterior.
Corn Starch: Helps to create an extra crunchy coating.
Fried Chicken Seasoning: A blend of spices for an authentic taste; you can make your own or buy pre-made.

Recommended Tools

Mixing Bowls: For marinating and coating the mushrooms.
Whisk: To thoroughly mix the batter and ensure even seasoning.
Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: For frying the mushrooms to crispy perfection.
Cooking Thermometer: To check oil temperature for frying.
Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Mastering Vegan Fried Chicken: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

Begin by cleaning the pearl oyster mushrooms under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels and trim the tough ends.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine dairy-free milk, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Marinate the Mushrooms

Add the cleaned mushrooms to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes; the longer, the better for flavor absorption.

Step 4: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup yellow corn flour with 2 tsp fried chicken seasoning. In another bowl, crush 2 cups corn flakes into smaller pieces, then mix in 2 Tbsp corn starch and 1 tsp fried chicken seasoning.

Step 5: Coat the Mushrooms

Remove the mushrooms from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge them in the corn flour mixture first, then dip them back into the marinade, and finally coat them in the corn flake mixture. Press firmly to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 6: Fry the Mushrooms

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot (around 350°F), carefully add the coated mushrooms. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once fried, transfer the mushrooms to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

Tailor It to Your Diet

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free corn flour and ensure your corn flakes are gluten-free.
Spicy Version: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil in the seasoning mix.
Low-Fat Option: Bake instead of frying for a healthier take, just spray with a little oil.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding mushrooms. If it’s too cold, they will absorb oil and become greasy.
Coating Falling Off: Ensure the mushrooms are well-coated in the marinade before dredging in the flour and cornflakes.
Too Spicy: If your seasoning is too hot, serve with a cooling dip like vegan ranch or yogurt-based sauce to balance the flavors.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Vegan Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness. You can also freeze the uncooked, coated mushrooms. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

While pearl oyster mushrooms work wonderfully, you can experiment with other varieties like shiitake or maitake, though the texture may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free corn flour and ensuring your corn flakes are certified gluten-free, you can make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

Can I bake this Vegan Fried Chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Bring It Home

You’ve made it to the end of this delicious journey towards mastering Vegan Fried Chicken! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that brings together friends and family around the table. The joy of biting into crispy, flavorful mushrooms can turn even skeptics into fans of plant-based eating. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delightful vegan feast. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process, so make it your own! Happy frying!