If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate enoki mushrooms into a crispy, crave-worthy snack, the Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This dish brings together the delicate, slightly earthy flavor of enoki mushrooms coated in a light, bubbly batter that crisps up perfectly when fried. Paired with a creamy, spicy chili aioli, it creates an addictive combination of textures and flavors that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo during a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in delivering amazing flavor and perfect texture.
- 200g enoki mushrooms: The star of the dish, these slender mushrooms bring a unique tenderness and subtle umami flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the batter to achieve that light, crisp coating.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Adds extra crunch to the fried mushrooms by keeping the batter super crispy.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the batter stays airy and puffy during frying.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and seasons the batter perfectly.
- 3/4 cup cold sparkling water: The secret ingredient for a batter that’s both light and bubbly, thanks to the carbonation.
- Vegetable oil for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point that crisps the mushrooms without overpowering their taste.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creamy base for the chili aioli that cools down and complements the spicy kick.
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce: Adds that vibrant heat and depth to the aioli; adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 tsp lemon juice: Brings brightness and balances the richness of the mayo in the aioli.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Offers a flavorful punch that rounds out the chili aioli beautifully.
How to Make Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Chili Aioli
Start by mixing mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pop this into the fridge so it can chill and let the flavors meld while you prepare the mushrooms. This vibrant, creamy sauce will soon be the perfect companion to the crispy mushrooms.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients form the foundation of a batter that’s light yet satisfying.
Step 3: Add Sparkling Water
Slowly pour cold sparkling water into the dry mix, whisking gently as you go. The bubbles in the sparkling water create a batter that puff ups beautifully and crisps to perfection once fried. Aim for a smooth, easily coatable consistency—not too thick or too runny.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat a good amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 180°C (350°F). Maintaining the right temperature is key to getting a golden, crispy fry without soaking up too much oil.
Step 5: Coat the Mushrooms
Grab small bunches of trimmed enoki mushrooms and dip them into the batter one at a time. Let the excess batter drip off to avoid clumps and ensure a delicate crust.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place the battered mushroom clusters into the hot oil in batches, frying about 2 to 3 minutes each until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The sizzling sound and color change are the best signs your mushrooms are transforming into crispy delights.
Step 7: Drain the Excess Oil
Use a slotted spoon to remove the mushrooms from the oil and set them onto paper towels to drain. This step keeps the fried mushrooms crispy and removes any unnecessary greasiness.
Step 8: Serve Hot with Chili Aioli
Serve the piping hot fried enoki mushrooms alongside a generous bowl of the spicy chili aioli. The contrasting crispness and creamy heat will make every bite irresistible.
How to Serve Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe by sprinkling finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions on top. These garnishes add a fresh aroma and a pop of color that makes the dish visually inviting and flavor-packed.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides like a crisp Asian slaw or cucumber salad. The freshness of these sides complements the rich, fried mushrooms and balances the bold chili aioli, making for a well-rounded meal or appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the mushrooms on a rustic wooden platter with small bowls of extra chili aioli and maybe even some pickled vegetables. For a fun twist, turn this into party finger food by placing the mushrooms on mini skewers or atop lettuce cups, perfect for casual gatherings or game nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place the fried mushrooms in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within one to two days to maintain their crispiness and flavor.
Freezing
Fried enoki mushrooms are delicate and don’t freeze as well as some other fried foods. If you need to freeze, spread the battered mushrooms on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use within a month, though note the texture may soften upon reheating.
Reheating
To revive leftover fried enoki mushrooms and keep their crispness, reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes rather than microwaving. This method helps restore that satisfying crunch without making them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other mushrooms instead of enoki?
Absolutely! While enoki mushrooms have a unique texture and look, other delicate mushrooms like oyster or shimeji can also work nicely, though the cooking time and texture might vary slightly.
How spicy is the chili aioli? Can I make it milder?
The spice level depends on how much sriracha or chili sauce you use. For a milder aioli, start with less chili sauce and adjust gradually to suit your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
Is sparkling water necessary for the batter?
Using sparkling water creates light, bubbly batter which crisps up beautifully. You can use cold soda water or even chilled club soda as substitutes; just make sure it’s cold to get that airy texture.
Can I bake the mushrooms instead of frying?
Baking is possible but the mushrooms won’t achieve the same level of crispiness that frying delivers. If you prefer baking, try spraying the coated mushrooms with oil and bake at a high temperature to help crisp the batter.
What can I serve with this dish for a full meal?
Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe works great as an appetizer or side. For a full meal, pair it with steamed rice and a simple stir-fried vegetable dish to balance the flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe is a fantastic way to add a crispy, flavorful bite to any meal or snack repertoire. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and packed with textures and flavors that delight every sense. So grab some fresh enoki mushrooms and get frying – you’re in for a treat that will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe!
Print
Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
Crispy fried enoki mushrooms served with a spicy chili aioli make a delicious appetizer or snack. Lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, these mushrooms have a delightful crunch paired with a creamy, tangy aioli infused with garlic and sriracha. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for sharing and brings a burst of flavor to your table.
Ingredients
For the Fried Enoki Mushrooms
- 200g enoki mushrooms, trimmed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup cold sparkling water
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Chili Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the chili aioli: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and minced garlic until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until a smooth batter forms without lumps.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer and heat to 180°C (350°F). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is steady for frying.
- Batter the mushrooms: Take small bunches of trimmed enoki mushrooms and dip them into the prepared batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Fry the mushrooms: Carefully place the battered enoki mushrooms in the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried mushrooms from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the fried enoki mushrooms hot alongside the chilled chili aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Use cold sparkling water to create a lighter, crispier batter.
- Maintain oil temperature at 180°C for even frying and to avoid soggy mushrooms.
- Adjust sriracha in the aioli to your preferred spice level.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Enoki mushrooms are delicate; handle them gently when battering and frying.
