Parmesan Fried Mushrooms

Parmesan Fried Mushrooms Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Parmesan Fried Mushrooms are a delicious and crispy appetizer or side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender mushrooms coated in a flavorful batter and fried to perfection makes for a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of Parmesan Fried Mushrooms are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Italy, where Parmesan cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The recipe has since been adapted and modified by cooks around the world to create their own unique versions of this tasty dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) small cremini mushrooms or button mushrooms, washed, dried, and tossed in flour
0.33 cup flour
0.25 cup parmesan cheese
0.5 tsp salt and pepper
0.5 tsp paprika
0.75-1 cup beer or water or chicken broth
oil (for frying)

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and your choice of beer, water, or chicken broth.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer, deep skillet, or any preferred frying utensil to a temperature of 325°F (163°C).
Dip the floured mushrooms into the batter, then carefully place them into the hot oil.
Fry the mushrooms until they turn golden brown, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

Variations

Try using different types of mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake, for a unique flavor.
Add herbs and spices to the batter for extra flavor, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use small flour mushrooms for this recipe, as they will cook more evenly and have a better texture.

- Be sure to heat the oil to the correct temperature before frying the mushrooms to ensure that they cook evenly and become crispy.

- You can use beer, water, or chicken broth in the batter for added flavor. Experiment with different liquids to find your favorite combination.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Parmesan Fried Mushrooms as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or as a side dish alongside a main course.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to fry the mushrooms in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure that they cook evenly.

- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mushrooms from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use grated Romano or Asiago cheese as a substitute.

- You can use vegetable broth or even milk as a substitute for the chicken broth in the batter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the batter for the Parmesan Fried Mushrooms ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them. Be sure to mix the batter well before using it.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Parmesan Fried Mushrooms on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Parmesan Fried Mushrooms with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Parmesan Fried Mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Parmesan Fried Mushrooms contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Parmesan Fried Mushrooms contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Parmesan Fried Mushrooms contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Parmesan Fried Mushrooms contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, potassium, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (flour). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Parmesan Fried Mushrooms are a tasty and indulgent dish that is relatively high in fat and calories. Enjoy them in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Parmesan Fried Mushrooms are a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy coating of Parmesan cheese and spices, these mushrooms are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as an appetizer or side dish for a tasty and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah's house for a backyard barbecue. As the sun began to set, Sarah brought out a plate of golden brown mushrooms that smelled absolutely heavenly. I couldn't resist grabbing one and popping it into my mouth.

The burst of flavor that hit my taste buds was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The mushrooms were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a rich, cheesy flavor that made my mouth water. I immediately asked Sarah for the recipe, and she told me that it was a family secret passed down from her grandmother.

Determined to recreate the delicious dish at home, I begged Sarah to teach me how to make it. She agreed, and we spent the rest of the evening in her kitchen, frying up batch after batch of Parmesan fried mushrooms. As I watched her work her culinary magic, I knew that this recipe was going to become a staple in my own kitchen.

The next day, I went out and bought all the ingredients I needed to make the dish at home. I carefully followed Sarah's instructions, mixing the grated Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs and spices to create a flavorful coating for the mushrooms. As I heated up the oil in my skillet, the familiar scent of frying mushrooms filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of that unforgettable barbecue.

When the mushrooms were finally done, I couldn't wait to taste them. I took a bite and was instantly transported back to Sarah's backyard, savoring every crispy, cheesy morsel. I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my Parmesan fried mushrooms, tweaking the ingredients and cooking techniques to suit my own tastes. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. I even entered it into a cooking competition once, where it won first prize and earned me a shiny blue ribbon.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and memories it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and finding new recipes to add to my repertoire is one of my favorite things to do.

So, the next time you're in the mood for a savory and satisfying appetizer, why not give my Parmesan fried mushrooms a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be sure to savor each bite, and remember the story of how this delicious dish came to be.