
Mushroom “Calamari” with Spicy Marinara
These crispy oyster mushrooms, coated in a light batter and fried to perfection, offer a delectable alternative to the classic seafood favorite. While other mushroom types can be used, the delicate "petals" of oyster mushrooms deliver an irresistible crunch that is simply addictive.
Ingredients
FOR SPICY MARINARA
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 tsp. dried oregano
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves, optional
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
FOR CALAMARI
- 12 oz. oyster mushrooms
- 1 c. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 c. panko
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 c. nondairy milk
- 1/4 c. nondairy plain yogurt
- Canola oil for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Make the spicy marinara: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, until garlic is soft, 3 to 4 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes; season to taste with salt and pepper. For a chunkier sauce, leave as is. For a smoother sauce, let cool slightly and transfer to a blender to puree.
- Make the calamari: Using your hands, pull apart mushrooms so they are separated into “petals.” In a medium bowl, combine flour, panko, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another medium bowl, whisk nondairy milk and yogurt to combine.
- Fit a deep skillet or pot with a deep fry thermometer and add canola oil to a depth of 3 inches. Place over medium high until thermometer registers 375°F.
- Working in batches, dunk mushroom pieces in milk mixture, shaking off excess. Dredge in flour mixture, making sure pieces are evenly coated. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and repeat until all pieces are coated.
- Fry mushrooms in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and season with salt. Serve with marinara and lemon wedges.
Nutrition
Calories: 1484kcalCarbohydrates: 87gProtein: 21gFat: 117gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 1714mgPotassium: 1759mgFiber: 12gSugar: 14gCalcium: 222mgIron: 10mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!