Description

A crispy, golden, and flavorful sandwich featuring buttermilk-marinated and fried Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, delivering a satisfying, meat-free alternative to traditional fried chicken sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Buttermilk Marinade:

1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Mushrooms:

8 ounces Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, cleaned and cut into sandwich-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sandwich Assembly:

4 brioche buns, toasted
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Dill pickle slices
Mayonnaise or preferred sandwich spread

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Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Mushrooms:

In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add the Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.

2️⃣ Prepare the Dredging Station:

In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

3️⃣ Dredge the Mushrooms:

Remove mushrooms from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off.
Coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the process: dip back into the buttermilk and dredge again in the flour mixture.

4️⃣ Fry the Mushrooms:

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the coated mushrooms into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Remove and drain on paper towels; season immediately with a pinch of salt.

5️⃣ Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spread mayonnaise or your preferred spread on the toasted brioche buns.
Layer with lettuce, fried Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, tomato slices, and dill pickle slices.
Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Chicken of the Woods mushrooms have a meaty texture that mimics fried chicken—perfect for vegetarians and foragers!
For spicier flavor, increase the cayenne pepper or add extra hot sauce to the marinade.
Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete meal.