Fried Oyster Mushrooms: A Southern Comfort Twist
Fried oyster mushrooms are a rare ingredient that can transport me anywhere in the world. They’re so simple, yet so full of possibilities. One minute, I’m imagining them in a New Orleans-style Po’ Boy, the next, I’m envisioning them alongside Southern-style chicken and waffles. That’s the beauty of these mushrooms—they’re not bound by just one identity. Who wants to be confined, anyway?
I have always been fascinated about mealtime. Perhaps it’s the forever explorer in me. Once a day you can put something on a plate that allows you to think about somewhere else in the world. I think imagining those moments is how you get to where you want to go. It’s like this… if you cook enough creme brûlée… surely you will end up in France one day. That goes for just about anything. Trust me on this one.
Dishes to Make With Fried Oyster Mushrooms
The possibilities with fried oyster mushrooms are truly endless, as it allots so much creative freedom. Once you master a simple fried mushroom, you can use it to make dishes from all around the world. Whether you are vegan or just love mushrooms… dare I say that these mushrooms will change you life? Some of my favorite ways to use the fried oyster mushrooms are…
- New Orleans Style Po’ Boy Sandwich
- Southern Style ‘Chicken’ and Waffles
- East Coast ‘Calamari’ Style with Cocktail Sauce
- Southern Fried ‘Chicken’ Dinner
- Vietnamese Banh Mi Sandwich
- Korean Style Fried ‘Chicken’
Where to Buy Oyster Mushrooms
If you cannot find oyster mushrooms at your local supermarket, then I would suggest going to your closest asian market or farmers market. If you have been following my blog for even one minute, you know that I am a ginormous Asian supermarket fan. They instantly transport me back in time to when I was volunteering in Vietnam. Honestly, they just make me feel peaceful and at home. A grocery store… can you believe it? Plus they have amazing deals on ingredients as most of them are whole-selling. My first choice will always be the farmers market though, because they are going to be local and freshly picked. Aside from frying the oyster mushroom, you can do so many other creative things with them. Check out my oyster mushroom gravy that I use for a Southern Style Biscuits and Gravy.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Max Ehrmann
