As I was flipping through my collection of cherished family recipes, a memory washed over me—weeknight dinners filled with laughter, comfort, and the irresistible aroma of Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy wafting through the air. This vegetarian twist on a Southern staple makes for a creamy, indulgent experience, featuring crispy oyster mushrooms that satisfy cravings and evoke nostalgia. It’s an enchanting option for those busy nights when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss. Best of all, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal that even the most novice cooks can master. Are you ready to whip up this indulgent creation and impress your loved ones? What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try? Indulgent, this Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy is a crispy revelation that redefines comfort food! Quick and Easy, it requires just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Vegetarian Delight, the meaty oyster mushrooms offer a satisfying twist without sacrificing flavor. Rich Gravy, this luscious sauce elevates the dish, providing a creamy finish that’s simply irresistible. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort, it’s sure to impress friends and family, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Versatile Options, with simple substitutions, explore unique flavors and manage dietary preferences with ease. Enjoy it with a side of mashed potatoes or even as a topping for a hearty salad! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Ingredients • Dive into comfort with these essential ingredients for your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy! For the Mushrooms Oyster Mushrooms – These are your main ingredient, offering a wonderful texture and umami flavor; substitute with portobello for a meatier experience. Cremini Mushrooms – Boosts the gravy’s flavor profile; feel free to increase the amount of oyster mushrooms if desired. For the Coating All-Purpose Flour – Provides the crispy outer layer you love; gluten-free flour works well for a gluten-free option. Cornstarch – Helps achieve extra crunch; can reduce the amount of flour for a lighter coating. Sweet Paprika – Adds warmth and vibrant color; switch to smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy flavor. Garlic Powder – Intensifies the savory taste; fresh garlic can be a lovely substitute. Onion Powder – Complements the dish’s savory elements; optional if preferred. Turmeric – Gives a touch of color and earthiness; curry powder can be used for an alternative twist. Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; use regular salt with an adjusted quantity. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Elevates the dish with subtle heat and depth. For the Buttermilk Mixture Unsweetened Almond Milk – Forms the base for homemade buttermilk; other non-dairy milks can also be used effectively. Apple Cider Vinegar – Creates that characteristic buttermilk tang; lemon juice is a good substitute. For Frying and Garnishing Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; choose any neutral oil of your preference. Flaky Sea Salt – Perfect for finishing touches; sprinkle over just before serving. Vegan Butter – Adds richness to your gravy; can be replaced with regular butter as needed. Clove Garlic – Fresh aromatics meshing beautifully into your gravy. Chopped Chives – Use these for garnishing, offering fresh flavor and a pop of color. Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s transform your kitchen into a place of comforting indulgence! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Step 1: Prepare Buttermilk In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles and thickens. This homemade buttermilk is essential for coating the oyster mushrooms, giving them a flavorful base that will help the crispy coating adhere beautifully. Step 2: Prepare Coating Mixture In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ensure all ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and uniform coating mixture that will give your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms a delightful crunch. Step 3: Coat Mushrooms Take the oyster mushrooms, dipping each piece first in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Then, dredge the mushrooms in the prepared flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat them thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness and flavor, so take your time to ensure a good, even coating on all sides. Step 4: Heat Oil In a large frying pan, heat about 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to reach a shimmering point, which usually takes about 5 minutes. To test if it’s ready, drop a small amount of the coating mixture into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s perfect for frying your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms. Step 5: Fry Mushrooms Carefully add the coated oyster mushrooms in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the mushrooms to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing any excess oil to drain off for a perfectly crispy finish. Step 6: Make Gravy In the same frying pan, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of vegan butter. Once melted, add 1 cup of chopped cremini mushrooms and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, cooking for about 1 minute, then gradually add 1 cup of almond milk, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Step 7: Serve On a serving platter, arrange the crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms and generously drizzle over the rich gravy. For a pop of freshness, garnish the dish with chopped chives. This comforting dish beautifully balances crispy, crunchy textures with creamy, indulgent gravy, making it a must-try for any night of the week. Expert Tips for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Oil Temperature Check: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the mushrooms; too cool and they’ll become soggy instead of crispy. Thorough Coating: Dip the oyster mushrooms completely in the buttermilk and ensure they’re fully coated in the flour mixture for that perfect crunch. Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Frying in batches allows for even cooking and maintains the oil temperature for crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms. Gravy Consistency: For a thicker gravy, increase the flour slightly or cook it longer after adding the almond milk; stir continuously to avoid lumps. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to the coating mix to customize and enhance flavor in your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the fried mushrooms and gravy separately in the refrigerator to maintain their textures. Reheat in the oven for maximum crispiness. What to Serve with Indulgent Chicken-Fried Mushrooms with Gravy Imagine the delightful crunch of crispy mushrooms paired with just the right sides to create a comforting feast. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a rich, smooth contrast that perfectly balances the crispy texture of the fried mushrooms. They soak up the gravy beautifully! Homemade Coleslaw: This refreshing slaw adds a crunch with a tangy kick, complementing the savory notes of the dish while refreshing your palate with every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate, enhancing the meal with flavors that brighten and uplift the traditional comfort food experience. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes for the perfect vessel to mop up extra gravy, turning every bite into a little slice of heaven for your taste buds. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This indulgent side adds to the overall comfort factor, combining cheesy goodness that pairs delightfully with the savory mushroom dish. Crispy Kale Chips: For a healthy crunch, kale chips offer a delightful contrast and a burst of nutrients, making this meal not just delicious but also a bit nutritious. Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, complements the earthiness of the mushrooms, enhancing the overall flavor experience. Warm Apple Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note; a slice of warm apple pie brings comfort and nostalgia, creating a delightful contrast to the savory main course. Storage Tips for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed will help maintain their flavor and texture. Freezer: To preserve for longer, freeze the cooked Chicken-Fried Mushrooms individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness, especially for the fried mushrooms. Gravy Storage: Store gravy in a separate container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of almond milk to restore its creamy consistency. Make Ahead Options These Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the buttermilk mixture and coat the oyster mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also enhances the flavors as they marinate. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply heat your oil and fry the mushrooms until golden brown. For the gravy, you can chop the cremini mushrooms and garlic up to 3 days ahead; just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This ensures your dish remains just as delicious, with crispy mushrooms and creamy gravy ready in no time! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Variations Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists and substitutions that will tantalize your taste buds! Mushroom Medley: Use a combination of oyster, portobello, and shiitake mushrooms for a more complex flavor and texture. Each type brings its unique taste and earthiness, making the dish a savory sensation. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture for an exciting heat that can elevate the overall flavor profile. You could also drizzle some sriracha sauce over your finished dish for an extra zing! Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy a crispy coating without the gluten. You won’t miss out on the crunch you love! Smoky Flavor: Replace sweet paprika with smoked paprika to infuse a deep, smoky essence into your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms—perfect for those craving a little outdoor taste. Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the coating mixture for an aromatic touch that enhances the mushrooms’ savoriness. Fresh herbs can also be sprinkled on top for a bright finish. Creamy Dairy Finish: If you are not strictly vegan, replace vegan butter with regular butter for a rich, creamy gravy that brings a classic touch to the dish. The difference is subtle but delicious. Oat Milk Buttermilk: Mix oat milk with apple cider vinegar as an alternative to almond milk for a different flavor experience. This variation works beautifully and maintains the integrity of the dish. These variations not only allow you to tap into your creativity but also cater to individual preferences, making every meal a unique experience. Enjoy experimenting with flavors like in this Cooking with Herbs guide for more delicious twists! Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Recipe FAQs What type of oyster mushrooms should I use? Absolutely! Look for firm oyster mushrooms that are plump and unblemished. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this may indicate spoilage. If you can’t find oyster mushrooms, portobellos are a fantastic substitute as they offer a similar meaty texture. How should I store leftover Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy? Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve their flavor and texture, it’s best to keep the fried mushrooms and gravy in separate containers. Reheat the mushrooms in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispy texture. Can I freeze Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy? Yes, you can freeze the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms, but it’s important to freeze them individually first. Lay the fried mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer until heated through and crispy. What should I do if the batter is not sticking to the mushrooms? If you encounter trouble with the batter adhering, try ensuring the mushrooms are adequately soaked in the buttermilk mixture. If that doesn’t help, you can also sprinkle a bit more flour onto the coated mushrooms before frying. This will create a better binding surface, resulting in a crispier texture! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very much! This Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy recipe is a vegetarian delight, but if you’re making it for someone with allergies, be cautious about using non-dairy milk like almond milk, as it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies. If gluten is a concern, gluten-free flour can be used for coating without sacrificing the crispy goodness. Crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy to Satisfy Cravings Experience the indulgent flavors of Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy, a vegetarian twist on a Southern classic. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: American, SouthernCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Mushrooms12 oz Oyster Mushrooms Substitute with portobello for a meatier experience.8 oz Cremini Mushrooms Boosts the gravy's flavor profile.For the Coating1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works well for a gluten-free option.1/4 cup Cornstarch Helps achieve extra crunch.1 tbsp Sweet Paprika Switch to smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be a lovely substitute.1 tsp Onion Powder Optional if preferred.1/2 tsp Turmeric Curry powder can be an alternative.1 tsp Kosher Salt Use regular salt with adjusted quantity.Freshly Ground Black Pepper To taste.For the Buttermilk Mixture1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk Other non-dairy milks can also be used.1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Lemon juice is a good substitute.For Frying and Garnishing1 cup Vegetable Oil Choose any neutral oil.Flaky Sea Salt Sprinkle over just before serving.2 tbsp Vegan Butter Can be replaced with regular butter.2 cloves Clove Garlic Minced.2 tbsp Chopped Chives For garnishing. Equipment Frying panMixing BowlsSlotted spoonMeasuring Cupsmeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it curdles and thickens.In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.Take the oyster mushrooms, dipping each piece first in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge the mushrooms in the prepared flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat them thoroughly.In a large frying pan, heat about 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to reach a shimmering point.Carefully add the coated oyster mushrooms in batches to the hot oil, frying each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.In the same frying pan, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of vegan butter. Once melted, add 1 cup of chopped cremini mushrooms and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are softened.Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, cooking for about 1 minute, then gradually add 1 cup of almond milk, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens.Arrange the crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms on a serving platter and drizzle over the rich gravy. Garnish with chopped chives. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individually and reheat in the oven for maximum crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
