Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of savory frying fills the kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. There’s something undeniably comforting about Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy, especially when you realize they provide a plant-based twist on a beloved classic. These satisfying oyster mushrooms boast a crunchy exterior that mimics fried chicken perfectly, and when smothered in creamy, homemade gravy, they’re simply irresistible. Not only is this dish quick to whip up in just 30 minutes, but it also transforms simple ingredients into a scrumptious comfort food that everyone will adore. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a delightful indulgence, this recipe has got you covered! What will you serve alongside this mouthwatering dish? Why Are Chicken-Fried Mushrooms so Irresistible? Indulgent flavors abound in this dish, offering a perfect comfort food experience. Crispy texture: The golden-brown coating on the oyster mushrooms mimics traditional fried chicken, delivering that satisfying crunch. Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing taste. Vegan-friendly: Enjoy a plant-based twist that everyone can love, making it a hit for all dietary preferences. Versatile options: Consider pairing with Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms for a delectable side or serve alongside classic mashed potatoes for a comforting Southern meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Ingredients For the Mushrooms Oyster Mushrooms – Main ingredient mimicking chicken; offers a hearty texture. Substitute with portobello mushrooms for a firmer bite. All-Purpose Flour – Provides the coating for frying; creates crispiness. Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option. Cornstarch – Aids in achieving extra crispiness in the coating. No direct substitute; increases fry texture. Sweet Paprika – Adds depth and color to the batter. Smoked paprika can offer a different flavor dimension. Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor profile. Fresh garlic can be substituted, but may alter texture. Onion Powder – Adds savory notes to the batter. Optional if desiring a less intense onion flavor. Turmeric – Gives a warm color and subtle earthiness. Can be omitted if not available. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Table salt can be used, but reduce the quantity slightly. Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat. Adjust according to taste preferences. For the Buttermilk Unsweetened Almond Milk – Base for buttermilk; provides moisture. Regular milk or any plant-based milk could be substituted. Apple Cider Vinegar – Combines with almond milk to create a buttermilk substitute. Lemon juice can serve as an alternative. For Frying and Gravy Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; contributes to the crispy texture. Canola oil is a good substitute. Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the gravy. Regular butter can be substituted if not vegan. Cremini Mushrooms – Additional texture and flavor for gravy. Button mushrooms can be a good alternative. Garlic (minced) – Fresh flavor for the gravy; can be omitted for simplicity. Chopped Chives – For garnish, providing freshness and color. Green onions can be used instead. Finishing Touch Flaky Sea Salt – For finishing touch; enhances flavor contrast. This delightful blend of ingredients ensures that your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy not only looks appealing but also tastes like a warm hug on a plate! Enjoy cooking and savor the delightful comfort it brings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This homemade buttermilk base adds moisture and tang to the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms, making their coating stick beautifully. Step 2: Make the Coating Mixture Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and your spices in a large bowl: 1 teaspoon each of sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a flavorful coating for the mushrooms that’s essential for that crispy texture. Step 3: Dredge the Mushrooms Take the oyster mushrooms and dredge them first in the dry coating mixture, ensuring they are well-covered. Then, dip them into the prepared buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, return the mushrooms to the dry mix for a second coating that guarantees a crunchy finish when frying. Step 4: Heat the Oil for Frying In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat—aim for a temperature around 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop in a small piece of the coating mixture; if it sizzles and starts bubbling, you’re ready to fry the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms to a delicious golden brown. Step 5: Fry the Mushrooms Carefully place the coated oyster mushrooms in the hot oil, frying them for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden-brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, flipping gently to achieve an even fry and ensure they are cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Step 6: Prepare the Mushroom Gravy In a separate pan, melt 3 tablespoons of vegan butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of finely chopped cremini mushrooms and sauté until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using minced garlic, toss it in now and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, creating a base rich in flavor for the gravy. Step 7: Make the Gravy Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the sautéed mushrooms and stir well to combine. Gradually pour in 1 cup of almond milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens, releasing the delicious aroma. Season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the creamy consistency of your gravy. Step 8: Serve and Garnish To serve your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy, plate the crispy fried mushrooms generously topped with the creamy mushroom gravy. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a pop of freshness and color, creating a comforting and indulgent meal that will warm your soul. What to Serve with Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Elevate your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms experience with delightful pairings that tickle the senses and create a memorable meal. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up all the delicious gravy, creating a comforting, hearty plate. They’ve always been a classic choice for any Southern-inspired feast. Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic offer a bright, crunchy contrast to the rich mushrooms, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal. Their crispiness and freshness will delight the palate. Southern Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing element, balancing the heaviness of the fried mushrooms and gravy. The tangy dressing complements the savory dish beautifully. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful textural contrast and a touch of sweetness, making each bite even more inviting. It’s a staple in any Southern-inspired dinner! Crispy Fried Pickles: These addictive bites bring a zesty crunch that pairs remarkably well with the savory mushrooms. Their tangy flavor will have your guests coming back for more. Sweet Tea: A classic Southern drink, sweet tea is the perfect accompaniment to this comfort food, offering a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the meal. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey sweetness rounds out the meal, making it a truly special occasion for everyone at the table. Choose any combination of these delightful sides to transform your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy into a memorable feast that warms the soul! Expert Tips for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Hot Oil Check: Always ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; test it with a small piece of batter for perfect crispiness. Double Coating: For extra crunch, don’t skip the second coating of the dried mixture after the buttermilk dip; it makes a world of difference! Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh mushrooms and spices for enhanced flavors; stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results in your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy. Avoid Greasy Finish: Don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying; this ensures even cooking and prevents greasy mushrooms by maintaining the oil temperature. Thick Gravy: If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer; stirring continuously helps achieve the desired creamy consistency without lumps. Make Ahead Options These Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the oyster mushrooms and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay extra crispy when fried. Additionally, the creamy mushroom gravy can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just remember to reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk to maintain its creamy consistency. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the mushrooms straight from the fridge and top them with the warmed gravy for a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy your delicious creation! How to Store and Freeze Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Room Temperature: Allow the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms to cool completely before storing them at room temperature for up to 2 hours to avoid any spoilage. Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat frozen Chicken-Fried Mushrooms in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. Serve with freshly made gravy for the best results! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Variations Feel free to experiment and make this recipe truly your own. The savory possibilities are endless! Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra layer of heat that brings the flavor to life. Spice lovers will rejoice when they feel that warm tingling sensation with every bite. Mushroom Mix-Up: Swap in shiitake mushrooms or portobello mushrooms for different textures and flavors. Portobello mushrooms provide a meaty bite, while shiitakes offer a deeper umami taste. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the coating for a delightful alternative. You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this indulgent dish. Herb-Infused Gravy: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the gravy for a fragrant twist. The aromatic notes will elevate the comfort food experience, making each mouthful even more delightful. Creamy Cashew Sauce: Substitute the gravy with a creamy cashew sauce for a rich, dairy-free twist. Blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice for a velvety alternative that’s equally satisfying. Coleslaw Addition: Serve alongside a crunchy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the mushrooms and gravy. The crisp textures and tangy flavors create a well-rounded meal. Richer Gravy: For a rustic touch, add some mushroom broth in place of almond milk in the gravy. This will deepen the color and flavor, creating a gravy that feels like a warm hug on a rainy day. Herbed Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick herbed yogurt dip with vegan yogurt, dill, and lemon juice for a zesty complement to your fried mushrooms. Dipping transforms the experience into an interactive culinary delight! As you wander through these variations, don’t forget to try pairing your dish with some delicious Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms or enjoy it with Potsticker Soup Mushrooms for a delightful dinner ensemble! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best oyster mushrooms? Absolutely! When selecting oyster mushrooms, look for ones that are firm, plump, and have a fresh smell. Avoid any that show signs of dark spots or sliminess, as these indicate spoilage. If you’re substituting with portobello mushrooms, choose caps that are dark and unblemished for a firmer texture. How should I store leftover Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy? Very! After your meal, allow the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use an oven or air fryer to maintain that delightful crunch instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy. Can I freeze Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy? Absolutely! To freeze, first let the fried mushrooms cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. What can I do if my gravy turns out too thin? No worries! If your gravy is too thin, just let it simmer over medium heat while stirring continuously. This allows it to thicken. If you want to speed up the process, you can mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch in a little bit of water to create a slurry and stir it into the gravy until it reaches your desired consistency. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! This Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy recipe is vegan-friendly, making it perfect for those following a plant-based diet. However, if you have a gluten allergy, be sure to use gluten-free flour and cornstarch. Always check the labels for any allergens, especially with condiments like apple cider vinegar and vegetable oil. Can I add spice to my Chicken-Fried Mushrooms? The more the merrier! For some added heat, you can incorporate cayenne pepper into the flour mixture before breading the mushrooms. Just adjust the amount according to your heat preference. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side for those who want to kick it up a notch! Crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy That Comforts Your Soul Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy is a comforting, plant-based twist on a classic dish, featuring crunchy oyster mushrooms smothered in creamy gravy. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mushrooms1 cup Oyster Mushrooms Main ingredient mimicking chicken1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used1/4 cup Cornstarch No direct substitute1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can be used1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be substituted1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional for less intensity1 teaspoon Turmeric Can be omitted1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Table salt can be used1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to tasteFor the Buttermilk1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk Any plant-based milk can be substituted1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Lemon juice can serve as an alternativeFor Frying and Gravy1 cup Vegetable Oil Canola oil is a good substitute3 tablespoons Vegan Butter Regular butter can be substituted1 cup Cremini Mushrooms Button mushrooms can be used2 cloves Garlic (minced) Can be omitted for simplicity2 tablespoons Chopped Chives Green onions can be usedFinishing Touch1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt Equipment Large mixing bowlLarge SkilletSeparate pan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & GravyIn a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until thickened.Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon each of sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.Dredge the oyster mushrooms in the dry coating mixture, dip into the prepared buttermilk, then return them to the dry mix for a second coating.Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until reaching 350°F (175°C).Fry the coated oyster mushrooms for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.In a separate pan, melt 3 tablespoons of vegan butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of finely chopped cremini mushrooms and sauté until softened.Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over sautéed mushrooms, stir well, gradually pour in 1 cup of almond milk while whisking to prevent lumps.To serve, plate the crispy fried mushrooms topped with creamy mushroom gravy and garnish with chopped chives. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor extra crunch, don't skip the second coating after the buttermilk dip. Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
