Ingredients
Ranch Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (divided)
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
Batter and Mushrooms
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (remaining from the 1 ½ tablespoons)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (remaining from the 1 ½ teaspoons)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (remaining from the 1 teaspoon)
- 1 ¼ cups beer
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 pound whole button mushrooms
Instructions
- Prepare Ranch Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Add dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make Beer Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, Old Bay seasoning, remaining ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Gradually pour in the beer while stirring until smooth. Let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes to develop texture and flavor.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), ideal for deep frying.
- Batter and Fry Mushrooms: Dip each whole button mushroom into the beer batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Carefully place the battered mushrooms into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes, or until mushrooms are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Drain Mushrooms: Remove fried mushrooms from the oil using a slotted spoon or spider and drain on a cooling rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Repeat with remaining mushrooms.
- Serve: Serve the crispy beer-battered fried mushrooms warm alongside the chilled homemade ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pot when frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Letting the batter rest improves its texture for a lighter, crunchier coating.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature between 350°F-360°F for optimal frying results.
- The homemade ranch dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour and beer with gluten-free alternatives.
- Old Bay seasoning adds a subtle spiced flavor but can be omitted or replaced with Cajun seasoning if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
