Heat the oil in a deep pot over medium heat until it reaches 325-350 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl combine the cornmeal, flour and half of the salt and pepper. In another bowl combine the egg, buttermilk and spices
Working in batches, dredge the mushrooms in the cornmeal mixture
Then dip in the egg batter, then back into the cornmeal mixture.
Then carefully place the mushrooms into the hot oil and fry until golden. Move to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and continue on to the next batch.
Mix all of the ingredients for the Buttermilk sauce together and set aside.
Split the hoagies in half lengthwise then spread a thin layer of the buttermilk sauce on one side, top with lettuce and a few fried mushrooms then top that with a spoon full of chow chow and more buttermilk sauce.Serve and enjoy!