Mushroom Nuggets

Ensure that the mushrooms are clean. Cut (and discard) a thin slice off the base. Dip each mushroom into the beaten egg. Then coat in seasoned breadcrumbs. “Deep fry” in about ¾” of fairly hot oil – first on one side and then briefly flipped to the other side. The mushroom is edible raw, so you are frying these only to get a nice colour. Additional salt can be sprinkled on them as they come out of the frying oil.

 Tip

Breadcrumbs should be as fresh as possible – make at home or purchase from your local bakery. Some bakeries sell seasoned breadcrumbs, but you can make your own with your favourite flavour profile. For 1 cup of breadcrumbs add any/all of the following: 1/4 tsp dried thyme (or 1/2 tsp fresh, chopped), 1/4 tsp dried, crushed rosemary (or 1/2 tsp fresh, chopped fine), 1/2 tsp dried basil and/or oregano, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1 tsp garlic powder, a pinch of nutmeg, sage, and salt to taste – and also consider sprinkling salt on freshly fried mushrooms. Depending upon your mayo dip plans, add a touch of heat to the breadcrumbs with a pinch of cayenne. Although this is Hungarian, best not to add paprika to the breadcrumbs, since it burns when in contact with high heat.

For optimum control I tend to cook only 4-5 at a time and place them on paper towels as they are removed from the oil.

A spider or slotted spoon is great for quick removal from the oil

These are best when made/served fresh.

Serve with mayo dip(s). In Hungary that might be mayo mixed with some creamed horseradish – but one can get creative – and offer guests a small selection. Mayo Dips are all the rage at trend-setting Brooklyn’s Smorgasburg. Mayo blended with avocado or guacamole, sriracha, curry, mango, caramelized onion – you are limited only by your imagination and taste buds. Enjoy!