Crispy Enoki Mushrooms

Ingredients

For the mushrooms:
8 oz enoki mushrooms
Neutral oil, for frying

For the batter:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
5 tbsp cornstarch
3/4 cup water

Seasoning (mix into the batter):
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp ground white pepper
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground mustard (optional)

Directions

Start by trimming the roots off the enoki mushrooms. Try to keep the base intact so the mushrooms stay loosely connected in slabs. Slice through the bundle lengthwise to create thin clusters — they’ll be easier to coat and fry evenly.

In a wide bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, all the seasoning, and the water. You should get a smooth, slightly thick batter that clings nicely to the mushrooms.

Heat about 2 inches of neutral oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), you’re ready to fry.

Dip 2–3 mushroom slabs at a time into the batter, let the excess drip off, and gently place them into the hot oil. Fry for about 2 minutes, flipping once, until the mushrooms are golden brown and the tops are crisp and lacy.

Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy. Great on their own or dipped into sauces like yum yum sauce, sweet chili sauce, or sweet & sour sauce.