For those following a ketogenic diet, finding satisfying and delicious snack or side dish options can sometimes be a challenge. Look no further than keto fried mushrooms! This recipe delivers all the crispy, savory goodness of traditional fried mushrooms without the carbs. Whether you air fry them or bake them in the oven, these mushrooms are sure to become a new favorite.
Why Mushrooms are Keto-Friendly
Mushrooms are an excellent choice for a keto diet. They are incredibly low in carbs, with approximately 1.6 grams of net carbs per cup of white mushrooms. Additionally, mushrooms contain protein, potassium, and B-vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your meal plan. Their versatility allows them to be used in various recipes, making them a staple in keto cooking.
Choosing Your Mushrooms
The best mushrooms to use for keto fried mushrooms include cremini (baby bella), shiitake, white button, and portobello mushrooms. These varieties have lower carb contents and offer a rich, umami flavor. When selecting mushrooms, look for those that are unbroken, fresh-smelling, and similar in size for even cooking.
Air Fryer Keto Fried Mushrooms
Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying. It uses a fraction of the oil and circulates hot air evenly around the food, resulting in a crispier texture with fewer calories. Air fryers are easy to use, making them a convenient option for quick and healthy meals.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Mushrooms
- Mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- Almond flour or ground pork rinds (such as Pork Panko)
- Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Garlic powder or granules
- Onion powder or granules
- Smoked paprika
- Dried parsley
- Salt and pepper
- Avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil
- Coconut oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt or debris. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg(s) well.
- Make the Breading: In a separate bowl or food processor, combine almond flour (or ground pork rinds), Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and basil. Pulse or mix until well combined. Using a food processor is the quickest way to grind the pork rinds into crumbs, similar to bread crumbs.
- Coat the Mushrooms: Dip each mushroom in the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, transfer the mushroom to the almond flour mixture and coat completely.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 360-400°F (180-200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with coconut oil spray or non-stick cooking spray. Place the coated mushrooms in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them. Spray the mushrooms lightly with oil.
- Cook: Air fry for 6-10 minutes, flipping or shaking the mushrooms halfway through to ensure even cooking and crisping. For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 30 seconds to one minute.
- Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Mushrooms
- Don't Overlap: Ensure the mushrooms are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.
- Shake or Flip: Shake or flip the mushrooms halfway through the cooking process to ensure they crisp up on all sides.
- Adjust Cooking Time: All air fryers cook differently, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavor.
- Don't Double Dredge: Avoid double-dipping the mushrooms in the egg and flour mixtures, as this can result in a soggy coating.
Oven-Baked Keto Fried Mushrooms
If you don't have an air fryer, you can still enjoy crispy keto fried mushrooms by baking them in the oven. This method requires a bit more oil but still delivers a satisfying crunch.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Ingredients for Oven-Baked Mushrooms
- Mushrooms
- Almond flour or sunflower seed powder
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Eggs
- Garlic powder
- Sea salt
- Paprika
- Dried parsley
- Avocado or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly oil a baking sheet with avocado or olive oil.
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse and dry the mushrooms. In a zippered storage bag, combine almond flour (or sunflower seed powder), garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese. In a small bowl, beat the egg(s).
- Coat the Mushrooms: Dip each mushroom in the egg mixture, then place it in the zippered bag with the almond flour mixture. Shake until the mushroom is fully coated.
- Bake: Place the coated mushrooms on the oiled baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook: Bake for 12-14 minutes, flipping the mushrooms halfway through. For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn them.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Mushrooms
- Use a Baking Sheet: Cover the baking sheet with avocado or olive oil to avoid sticking.
- Broil for Crispness: Turn on the broiler for the last few minutes to achieve a crispier coating.
- Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on the mushrooms while broiling to prevent burning.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breading for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese in the breading, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
- Herb Garden: Use a variety of fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to enhance the flavor.
- Garlic Butter Dip: Serve the mushrooms with a garlic butter dipping sauce for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Keto fried mushrooms can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Appetizer: Serve them as a delicious and satisfying appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Side Dish: Pair them with grilled steak, fish, or chicken for a complete keto meal.
- Snack: Enjoy them as a quick and easy snack any time of day.
- Holiday Side Dish: With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, this recipe makes for the perfect holiday side dish as it is both keto friendly and also vegetarian, meaning it can be served to your non meat eating guests as well.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover fried mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer, oven, or a skillet until heated through. You may need to add a little butter or oil to prevent them from drying out.
Dipping Sauces
Fried mushrooms are traditionally served with a dipping sauce. Here are some keto-friendly options:
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that pairs well with the savory mushrooms.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce made with butter, garlic, and herbs.
- Spicy Mayo: Combine mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: A creamy and tangy option that complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.
Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce Recipe
- 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Smash the garlic cloves and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add the butter to the bowl.
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until the butter is melted.
- Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with the air fryer garlic mushrooms.
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