Umami-rich oyster mushrooms are lightly battered and fried for this squid-free take on a seafood favorite. You can use other mushroom varieties, but the delicate “petals” of the oyster mushrooms get addictively crispy.
Ingredients
- 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
Description
- Step 1Make 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.
- Step 2Make 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.
- Step 3Fit 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.
- Step 4Working 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.
- Step 5Fry 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.
