As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of frying enoki mushrooms enveloped me, beckoning me to indulge. These crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Chili Crisp Mayo are not just an appetizer; they are a culinary experience with a delightful crunch and a hint of spice that’ll keep you coming back for more. What I love most is how this vegan-friendly treat is not only easy to whip up but also a huge crowd-pleaser for gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine entire clusters of these golden gems, light and airy on the inside, paired with a zesty dipping sauce that elevates their subtle flavor. Are you ready to discover the secret to achieving that perfect, addictive crisp?

Why Are Fried Enoki Mushrooms So Irresistible?

Crispy Texture: The enoki mushrooms create a delicate crunch that is simply addictive, making them a perfect snack you won’t want to put down.

Vegan-Friendly Delight: This recipe is delectably versatile, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty bites, regardless of dietary preferences.

Quick and Easy: With a straightforward batter, these fried enoki mushrooms come together in no time—ideal for unexpected guests or a movie night.

Flavorful Dipping Sauce: Pair them with the spicy chili crisp mayo for a burst of flavor that elevates your snacking experience to new heights.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a party appetizer or a cozy night in, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests and keep them asking for more! Make sure to also check out our recipes for Cinnamon Fried Apples and Sweet Potato Rounds for more crowd-pleasing snacks!

Fried Enoki Mushrooms Ingredients

• Create the perfect crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Chili Crisp Mayo by gathering these key ingredients!

For the Mushrooms

Enoki Mushrooms – These delicate fungi serve as the star, offering a light texture and flavor that make them irresistible.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides a crispy coating; if you’re gluten-sensitive, try using gluten-free flour instead.
Cornstarch – Amplifies crispiness; feel free to swap with arrowroot powder for a similar effect.
Baking Powder – Key to achieving a light, fluffy batter; no substitutes recommended for best results.
Garlic Powder – Adds a delicious flavor kick; fresh minced garlic can be used for an even more robust taste.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a smoky depth; if needed, regular paprika works well as a substitute.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to your liking for the perfect balance.
Cold Water – Helps achieve the right batter consistency; add more if it’s too thick.
Neutral Oil – Necessary for frying; options like vegetable or canola oil will do just fine.

For the Spicy Chili Crisp Mayo

Japanese Mayo – Creamy and rich, this serves as the base; feel free to replace it with regular mayo for a different twist.
Chili Crisp – Brings a delightful heat and crunch; tailor the amount to match your spice preference.
Sriracha – Optional extra heat; add according to your comfort level with spice.
Rice Vinegar – Balances and brightens the sauce’s flavors; apple cider vinegar makes a suitable alternative.
Granulated Sugar – A touch of sweetness to elevate the flavor; agave syrup can be used for a different sweetener choice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Crisp Mayo

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Start by trimming the brown ends off the enoki mushrooms, then slice them into ¼-inch bundles to keep their delicate integrity. Rinse the mushrooms gently under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving the best crispiness when frying your Fried Enoki Mushrooms.

Step 2: Make the Dipping Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Japanese mayo, chili crisp, sriracha (if using), rice vinegar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust the spice level or sweetness as desired. Set the dipping sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld, creating a delightful accompaniment for your crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a separate medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free, adjusting the consistency as necessary—aim for a thick yet pourable texture. This batter is key to achieving the crispy coating for your Fried Enoki Mushrooms.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
Pour neutral oil into a heavy pot or deep fryer, filling it with about 3-4 inches of oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F, using a thermometer for accuracy. This temperature is essential for getting that crunchy exterior on your Fried Enoki Mushrooms without absorbing too much oil.

Step 5: Fry the Mushrooms
Once the oil is hot, carefully dip each mushroom bundle into the batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off. Fry the enoki mushrooms in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Take care not to overcrowd the pot, which can lower the oil’s temperature and result in soggy mushrooms.

Step 6: Season and Serve
After frying, transfer the golden, crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms onto a wire rack to cool slightly, which helps maintain their crispness. Season them with salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne for added flavor. Serve the fried mushrooms warm alongside the spicy chili crisp mayo for an irresistible snack that’s sure to impress.

What to Serve with Crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Spicy Chili Crisp Mayo

Creating the perfect meal around these crispy delights opens up a world of flavor and comfort.

Fresh Garden Salad: A light, citrusy salad brings brightness to the rich fried mushrooms, balancing textures beautifully. The crisp greens and tart dressing will cleanse your palate between bites.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice acts as a perfect neutral base, allowing the mushrooms and dipping sauce to shine, soaking up any extra flavor for a comforting experience.
Sesame Noodles: The nutty sesame flavor and soft noodles complement the crunch of fried enoki mushrooms, creating a satisfying bite with every forkful—a lovely nod to Asian fusion.
Stir-fried Bok Choy: With its mild flavor and crunchy bite, bok choy makes an excellent accompaniment, providing a fresh, leafy crunch that enhances the overall meal. A drizzle of soy sauce can elevate its taste further.
Spicy Kimchi: Adding a layer of fermented flavor, kimchi brightens the meal and brings a delightful spice that pairs nicely with the crispy mushrooms. The contrasting textures offer an exciting mouthfeel.
Chilled Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles, paired with a light soy dipping sauce or sesame dressing, offer a cooling contrast to the warm, crispy mushrooms, enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
Light Beer or Sparkling Water: To wash it all down, a refreshing light beer or a fizzy sparkling water adds a fun twist while cleansing the palate for more of those delicious fried mushrooms.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this dessert combines creamy coconut milk and sticky rice topped with ripe mango, making a delightful and satisfying end to your meal.

Each of these pairings adds unique elements that elevate your dining experience, ensuring that the crispy fried enoki mushrooms with spicy chili crisp mayo are the star of a truly memorable meal.

Fried Enoki Mushrooms Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these crispy fried enoki mushrooms to suit your taste!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same crunchy exterior without gluten.
Seasoned Up: Add spices like curry powder or cayenne to the batter for an exciting twist that will elevate your flavors.
Fresh Garlic: Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic to give the batter a robust, aromatic kick that’s truly irresistible.
Batter Boost: For a richer texture, substitute half of the water with sparkling water—this will make your batter extra airy and light!
Flavorful Oils: Try frying in sesame oil for a nutty depth or use coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
Creamy Swaps: Replace Japanese mayo with vegan mayo or tahini for a different creamy, plant-based experience.
Sweet Heat: Introduce sweet chili sauce into the dipping sauce for a delightful balance of sweet and spicy that you won’t forget!
Crowd-Pleaser Pairing: Serve these fried mushrooms as an appetizer alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a side of crispy tofu for an Asian-inspired feast. Don’t forget to also check out our Pumpkin Chili Cozy for a heartier option perfect for cooler days!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Chili Crisp Mayo are a great choice for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can slice and pat dry the enoki mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the dipping sauce by mixing the Japanese mayo, chili crisp, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sugar a day ahead; simply refrigerate it until ready to use. When it’s time to enjoy, heat your oil, dip the prepped mushrooms into the batter, fry them for 2-3 minutes until golden, and serve them hot for that delicious crunch just as if they were made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Fried Enoki Mushrooms

Fridge: Store leftover crispy Fried Enoki Mushrooms in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To retain as much crispiness as possible, avoid stacking them.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled fried mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To regain their crunch, reheat thawed fried mushrooms in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.

Serving Tip: When ready to serve, pair them with freshly made spicy chili crisp mayo for an extra flavor boost, ensuring they feel just as delightful as when they were first made.

Tips for the Best Fried Enoki Mushrooms

Correct Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 350°F before frying; this is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture in your Fried Enoki Mushrooms.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This helps maintain oil temperature, ensuring that each mushroom gets the crispy coating it deserves.
Wire Rack Cooling: After frying, place the mushrooms on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from softening your Fried Enoki Mushrooms, keeping them delightfully crispy.
Adjust the Batter: If your batter is too thick, gradually add more cold water until it reaches the right consistency—thick yet pourable will yield the crispiest results.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dipping sauce before serving, and feel free to adjust the spice levels or sweetness to suit your taste preference for the best overall experience!

Fried Enoki Mushrooms with Chili Crisp Mayo Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best enoki mushrooms?
Look for enoki mushrooms that are firm, with a bright white color and no dark spots. The caps should be small and tightly closed, indicating freshness. If the mushrooms start to look slimy or have a strong odor, it’s best to avoid them.

What is the best way to store leftover Fried Enoki Mushrooms?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain their flavor and texture. To help them stay crispy, avoid stacking them and place them in a single layer if possible.

Can I freeze Fried Enoki Mushrooms?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the fried mushrooms completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month.

What should I do if my batter is too thick?
If you find that your batter is too thick and doesn’t coat the mushrooms well, simply add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency. This will help ensure an evenly crispy coating when fried!

Are these mushrooms safe for pets?
While enoki mushrooms are non-toxic to pets like dogs and cats, it’s best to consult with your vet before sharing any human food. Keep in mind that the batter’s spices or the spicy dipping sauce can be harmful to pets, so it’s best to give them plain cooked mushrooms without any seasoning.

What if I don’t have certain ingredients for the dipping sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have Japanese mayo, regular mayo works just fine. For chili crisp, you can substitute with garlic chili oil or a dash of hot sauce. If you lack rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative to keep that balance of flavors. Just adjust to your taste, and you’ll still have a delicious dipping sauce!