Crispy garlic mushroom bites

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) fresh button or cremini mushrooms, cleaned and halved

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but highly recommended)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley

• Vegetable oil for frying

Optional:

• Pinch of chili flakes for heat

• Lemon wedges for serving

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Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls

• Frying pan or deep fryer

• Slotted spoon or tongs

• Paper towels or wire rack

• Knife and cutting board

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Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms

Gently clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove dirt—don’t rinse under water, as mushrooms soak up moisture. Halve or quarter them depending on size for bite-size pieces.

Optional: Lightly salt the mushrooms and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and helps keep them crisp.

Pat them dry before coating.

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Step 2: Set Up a Dredging Station

You’ll need three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: All-purpose flour mixed with salt and pepper.

• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs with minced garlic stirred in.

• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and herbs.

The garlic in the egg wash infuses flavor directly into the mushroom coating.

Step 3: Coat the Mushrooms

One at a time, dip each mushroom piece in flour (shake off excess), then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press lightly to ensure a good coating.

Pro tip: Double dip for extra crunch—repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.

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Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add mushrooms in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan.

Fry 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Alternative: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Or air-fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.

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Step 5: Finish with Garlic & Garnish

Optional but awesome: While still hot, toss the crispy bites with a little more freshly minced garlic, chili flakes, or chopped parsley. This adds even more depth and aroma.

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Step 6: Serve and Dip

Serve your Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites hot with your favorite dip:

• Garlic aioli

• Ranch dressing

• Spicy sriracha mayo

• Yogurt-dill sauce

Add a wedge of lemon on the side for brightness.

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Storage Tips

If you somehow have leftovers:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Re-crisp in the oven or air fryer—avoid microwaving, which makes them soggy.

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