Vegan Crispy Enoki Mushrooms with Amba Mayo
Crunchy golden clusters of enoki mushrooms are lightly battered and fried until crisp, then paired with a bright and zesty vegan amba mayo — a mango-based condiment with bold Middle Eastern flavors. This dish is perfect as a street food-style snack or appetizer.
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Serves: 2–4
Ingredients
For the crispy enoki:
200g (7 oz) enoki mushrooms, ends trimmed and clusters separated
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp turmeric (for color)
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold sparkling water (or more, adjust for texture)
Neutral oil, for frying (e.g., canola or sunflower)
For the vegan Amba mayo:
2 tbsp amba sauce
3 tbsp vegan mayo
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp maple syrup
If you can’t find amba sauce, you can mix 1 tbsp mango chutney with 1/2 tsp ground fenugreek, cumin, and turmeric for a quick mock version.
Instructions
1. Prepare the enoki:
Trim off the tough root base of the enoki and gently separate them into small clusters. Pat dry.
2. Make the batter:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric, and salt.
Slowly add cold sparkling water until you get a slightly thick, pancake-like batter.
3. Heat oil:
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). A breadcrumb should sizzle and float.
4. Batter and fry:
Dip mushroom clusters into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Don’t overcrowd.
Transfer to paper towels to drain.
5. Make the amba mayo:
In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, amba sauce, lemon juice, and maple syrup (if using).
6. Serve:
Plate hot crispy mushrooms with a side of amba mayo for dipping or drizzle over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, sumac, or chili flakes.
Tips & Notes:
Super crispy tip: Keep your batter cold and fry in hot oil (350–375°F).
Oven or air fryer option: Spray battered mushrooms with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for ~15 mins or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 mins.
Amba flavor: It’s tangy, slightly spicy, with hints of fenugreek and mango — perfect contrast to the crispy mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use oyster or shiitake mushrooms instead?
Yes, but enoki creates the most delicate and lacy crunch. Slice other mushrooms thinly for crispness.
Q: Is amba sauce spicy?
Mildly to moderately, depending on the brand. You can adjust heat by mixing in more mayo or lemon juice.
Q: Can I prep these ahead?
The batter and mayo can be made ahead. Fry mushrooms fresh for best texture.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 230
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 20g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g