The autumn menu prominently features the rich and earthy flavor of mushrooms, which can enhance a wide variety of dishes in delightful and unexpected ways. Oyster mushrooms, scientifically known as Pleurotus ostreatus, are increasingly cultivated commercially and have become quite familiar to many home cooks across various culinary landscapes. However, I still find it incredibly exciting and somewhat adventurous to stumble upon a wild oyster mushroom while exploring its natural habitat. These fascinating fungi grow on dead or decaying trees, often appearing in large, impressive clusters that can be quite a sight to behold. Notably, they tend to reappear in the same location in successive years, making it essential to remember and mark where you picked them during your foraging expeditions.

Oyster mushrooms are a popular choice for vegans and vegetarians, serving as an excellent substitute for meat. Nutritionally, oyster mushrooms are a valuable source of vitamins and minerals, particularly rich in potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins. They provide a significant amount of folic acid and vitamin B6, contributing to the health of the nervous system, supporting blood vessel function, and potentially lowering blood sugar levels. Additionally, some studies suggest that they may help inhibit the aging process of the body, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.

The cap of oyster mushrooms typically ranges from 5 to 20 centimeters across, which makes them an excellent choice for preparing a vegetarian dish that beautifully resembles a traditional Viennese schnitzel.

This recipe is for my father, an enthusiastic mushroom picker who inspired my love for nature. His careful teaching on identifying different types of mushrooms showed me how to forage successfully and respect the environment. Whenever I go out to collect mushrooms, I feel connected to him and his lessons. This dish represents our time together in the woods, honoring the wonderful flavors of nature that he loved.🍄💖

Breaded Oyster Mushrooms

By Zosia Culinary Adventures | Date: October 24, 2024

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients:

• 125 g fresh oyster mushrooms, carefully wiped with a damp cloth

• 1 egg

• 1/4 milk

• 1/2 cup flour for dusting

• 1 tsp Hungarian sweet paprika powder

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp white pepper powder

• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

• salt and pepper as per taste

• avocado oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Gently clean and thoroughly wipe the mushrooms using a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be present on their surface..

2. Prepare the flour mixture: thoroughly mix together the all-purpose flour with a pinch of fine sea salt, freshly ground white pepper, aromatic sweet paprika, and fragrant garlic powder to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

3. Coat the mushrooms thoroughly in the flour mixture, and then dip them carefully in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk .

4. Coat the mushrooms generously and thoroughly with Panko breadcrumbs

5. Fry the prepared mushrooms in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Place the fried oyster mushrooms on a paper kitchen towel to drain excess fat.

6. Serve hot with fresh lemon and sauce of your choice.

Nutrition Facts per One Serving

Calories 265 | Fat 6.7 g \ Saturated Fat 2.2 g\ Cholesterol 187 mg\ Sodium 77 mg\ Total Carbohydrate 30.7g\ Dietary Fiber 1.5g\ Total Sugars 1.7g\ Protein 11.6 g \ Vitamin D 18 mcg\ Calcium 46 mg\ Iron 3 mg\ Potassium 108 mg