Fried Enoki Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 1 lb enoki mushrooms
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp five spice powder
• ¾ cup cold sparkling water (more as needed)
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Trim about 1 inch off the root end of the mushrooms. Slice vertically into ¼-inch layers.
2. Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 375°F.
3. Prepare a baking tray with a wire rack.
4. In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients. Add cold sparkling water and whisk until smooth.
5. Dip each cluster of mushrooms into the batter, shaking off excess, and carefully place into the hot oil.
6. If the batter is too thick, add more sparkling water 1 tbsp at a time.
7. Fry mushrooms for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Transfer to the wire rack to cool.
9. Season with salt and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.