Crispy Air Fryer Oyster Mushroom “Fried Chicken” Dupe Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Fried Oyster Mushrooms make a perfect plant-based dupe for fried chicken. Marinated in buttermilk and coated with a seasoned flour mixture, these mushrooms are air fried to golden perfection with a crunchy exterior and juicy interior. A quick and delicious vegan-friendly appetizer or snack with simple ingredients and a healthy cooking method.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Marinade
- 2 heaping cups oyster mushrooms (125 g)
- 1 cup buttermilk (240 mL) – see notes for vegan substitute
Breading
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (200 g)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
For Cooking
- 1 Tbsp oil (15 mL) – or cooking spray for less oil
Instructions
- Marinate: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Clean the oyster mushrooms thoroughly, then combine them with the buttermilk in a large bowl. Let them marinate for 15 minutes to absorb flavor and moisture.
- Breading: In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour and all the spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin). Remove the mushrooms from the buttermilk, reserving the buttermilk. Dip each mushroom into the flour mixture to coat, shake off excess, then dip back into the buttermilk, and again coat with the flour. This wet-dry-wet-dry method ensures a crispy crust.
- Cook: Lightly grease your air fryer basket or pan with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded mushrooms in a single layer, making sure they have space around them. Air fry for 5 minutes, then remove and brush all sides with a little oil to promote even browning. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until the mushrooms are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- To make a vegan buttermilk substitute, combine 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice with 1 ½ cups plain soy milk and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use cooking spray instead of oil for a lighter version, which provides even coverage with less fat.
