Image Source from sweetcaramelsunday

Air Fryer Breaded Mushrooms: A Crispy Delight

Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient that can elevate a dish with their rich umami flavour. When prepared with a crispy breading and cooked in an air fryer, they become a delectable snack or side dish. Whether you’re enjoying them with a dip, adding them to a salad, or serving them alongside your favourite main course, air fryer breaded mushrooms offer a guilt-free, delicious treat that’s hard to resist.

The Benefits of Air Frying

Air frying has gained popularity in recent years as a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By circulating hot air around the food, an air fryer can achieve that sought-after crispiness, all while using significantly less oil. This means that air-fried foods can be lower in calories and fat, making them a great option for those looking to indulge without the added guilt.

Ingredients

To make air fryer breaded mushrooms, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of fresh button or portobello mushrooms
• 100g plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 200g breadcrumbs (preferably panko for an extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for spraying

Optional Variations:

• Grated cheese: Adding some Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs can provide extra flavour.
• Herbs: Mix in herbs like dried oregano, thyme, or parsley for added taste.
• Spices: A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat.

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms

Start by cleaning the mushrooms thoroughly. Wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt. If you’re using larger portobello mushrooms, slice them into thick pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process:

1. Flour Bowl: Season the plain flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Egg Bowl: Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until combined.
3. Breadcrumb Bowl: Place the breadcrumbs in the final bowl. If you’re adding cheese or herbs, mix them in at this stage.

Step 3: Bread the Mushrooms

1. Coat the Mushrooms: Take each mushroom and coat it in the seasoned flour first, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip in Egg: Next, dip the flour-coated mushroom into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered.
3. Breadcrumb Coating: Finally, roll the mushroom in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.

Step 4: Preheat and Cook

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to around 180°C (356°F). Once preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded, as this will ensure they cook evenly and remain crispy.

Cook the mushrooms for about 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You may want to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides achieve that perfect crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm with your favourite dipping sauces, such as garlic mayonnaise, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha dip for a zingy kick.

Conclusion

Air fryer breaded mushrooms are a quick and easy way to enjoy a crispy snack packed with flavour. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served as a starter, a party nibble, or a side dish, these mushrooms are a delightful addition to any meal. So, dust off your air fryer and give this recipe a go — your taste buds will thank you!