Choose the Best Deep Fryer for Your Kitchen

Deep fryers were traditionally used in commercial settings, such as restaurants, hotels, cafeterias and concession stands. They're used to prepare large quantities of fried foods, such as French fries, chicken wings, onion rings, funnel cakes and much more. However, these days you can replicate the experience at home on a smaller scale. These deep fryers sit on your countertop to prepare family favorites in no time.

How Do They Work?
Deep fryers contain a heated base where the oil sits. Then wire metal baskets hold the food and are submerged into the oil pot to cook delicious meals. Deep fryers work best with oils that can withstand higher temperatures. These are called high smoke point oils. We recommend using canola oil, vegetable oil or peanut oil in your deep fryer.

The possibilities are endless with a deep fryer. Cook appetizers and sides, poultry, fish, ribs and even desserts. From American favorites like onion rings, French fries and chicken wings to Indian samosas or Italian arancini, there's something for every palette. Here are some of our favorites.

Sides
Cheese Bites
Fried Veggies (ex. okra , brussels sprouts or cauliflower)
Spring Rolls
Potato Chips
French Fries
Onion Rings
Calamari
Arancini
Ham and Cheese Croquetas
Samosas

Entrees
Fried Chicken
Fried Fish
Chicken Wings
Chicken Nuggets
Spare Ribs

Desserts
Corn or Apple Fritters
Doughnuts
Churros
Beignets

There are several types of deep fryers that are available for commercial or residential use. Residential deep fryers are smaller and typically more affordable, but they can still make delicious food for families or gatherings.

Fish Fryer
Fish fryers are used outdoors and sit on a heavy stand. They're ideal for preparing wings, fish and more. If you're headed out on a camping trip or tailgating at your favorite game, bring this appliance to feed your hungry crew.

Turkey Fryer
Fried turkeys have become a favorite at American tables during the holidays. A turkey deep fryer is used outdoors to produce a delicious moist turkey with crispy skin. These gas fryers can also be used for soups, seafood boils and other fried foods.

Countertop Deep Fryers
These deep fryers sit on your kitchen countertop and can prepare a full meal for your family in no time. Most fryers have one basket. With two or three baskets, you can simultaneously cook an entree and one or two sides. Look for deep fryers that have a lid to prevent splattering.

Deep fryers have numerous options and accessories to choose from. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a deep fryer for your home.

Oil Capacity
One of the most important decisions that you'll make when selecting a deep fryer is capacity. Are you usually cooking for a couple, a family or a large gathering? The size is measured in quarts and can range from 1 quart up to 60 quarts. The most popular sizes range from 3-5 quarts. Three quarts can prepare up to six cups of food at a time, while five quarts can fry up to twelve cups of food.

Dual Zone Feature
Cut your cooking time in half with the dual zone feature. Make double batches of the same item or you can simultaneously cook two different foods at separate temperatures.

Control Options
Most deep fryers use knobs to control the deep fryer. There are some that have a digital option.

Drain Feature
Removing leftover oil can be a messy exercise. A built-in system makes it easy to drain the oil from your fryer.

Cabinet or Counter Space
Check to see how much room your machine will take up. Do you have enough counter space, or will you have to store it after each use?

Watch Tutorials
How does this appliance work? What accessories do you need? Watch a few videos on how to use a deep fryer. You can also select a particular model and find videos that explain the options and how to use it.

Accessories
If you'd like an additional accessory or you need a replacement, you can purchase fry baskets, deep fryer filters, stainless steel racks and thermometers separately.

Although the directions for each fryer may vary, this should give you a general overview of what to expect. For specific step-by-step instructions, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your model.

1. Place the deep fryer on your countertop and ensure that the appliance is level. The cord shouldn't be hanging off the side. Many deep fryers have a magnetic cord that will break away to prevent the unit from being pulled off the countertop.
2. Remove the basket(s) from the deep fryer.
3. Add the oil to the oil pot. Don't exceed the max line. Put the lid back on.
4. Plug the deep fryer in and turn the appliance on. Set the desired temperature and let it preheat until the ready light comes on.
5. Remove the lid. If the food is battered, lower the basket into the oil and then carefully add the food. If the food isn't battered, put it in the basket and lower into the oil. Replace the lid.
6. When the food is done cooking, remove the lid and lift the basket out of the oil and hook it onto the side of the deep fryer.
7. Line a bowl or basket with paper towels and place the food inside. Unplug the appliance.

Your fryer will last longer and the food will taste fresher if you maintain your appliance. It's always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. But in general, deep fryers should be cleaned every three months if you're using it weekly. The oil should be changed out every three uses for breaded food and 6-8 uses for other food types.

Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to clean your deep fryer.