Using a deep fryer is not so complicated. There are certain steps following which could make it convenient for us to use it.
For effective use of deep fryers, it is essential to follow the instructions given in its manual because there might be a different method of using each deep fryer. The manual is also important to assemble different parts of a deep fryer, e.g. its lid, the frying baskets, the heating element, etc.
We will talk about using both electric and gas deep fryers. The way to use the two is almost the same but some major differences are still there.
Let’s move on to the steps for using a Deep Fryer easily and safely.
1. Assemble the Parts
The very first step is to assemble the parts of your deep fryer. As we said above, it’s good to read the manual’s instructions because the method of assembling the parts of each deep fryer may be different.
Some deep fryers have already fitted the oil containers.
Now, if your deep fryer has a separate oil container, attach it to the stainless steel housing carefully because the edges of the housing could be sharp.
After that, fix the heating element properly.
Note: Proper installation of the heating element is very important otherwise it won’t heat up adequately.
As for the basket and lid, keep the basket inside your deep fryer and if the basket has a detachable handle, fold it and keep it inside the basket and close the lid (when not using the fryer).
For Gas deep fryers, do the same.
2. Fill the Deep Fryer With Oil
The next step is to fill your deep fryer with oil. Choose the right oil because not every oil is suitable for deep frying. The most commonly used best deep-frying oils are:
- Vegetable Oil
- Canola Oil
- Sunflower Oil
- Peanut Oil
Most deep fryers need 4 to 12 cups of oil depending on the quantity of food you want to fry.
Note: Make sure that the deep fryer is switched Off before pouring the oil into it because if you pour oil into a hot deep fryer, the oil will splash over you or the kitchen counter and walls, which may lead to dangerous situations in the kitchen.
Minimum and maximum fill lines are also there in most deep fryers, oil should not be filled under the provided lines or above the maximum fill line.
In case your deep fryer does not have minimum or maximum fill lines, you should not add too much oil to it, because the oil tank can overflow when you put food into it. However, it’s better to fill it halfway.
You may also like to give a read to the top rated deep fryer: T-Fal Deep Fryer Review here.
3. Turn On the Deep Fryer
Now after pouring the oil, you need to turn On the deep fryer. Some Electric deep fryers will have an On and Off switch while others will just require plugging in the deep fryer with the help of a cord.
As for Gas deep fryers, set the gas valve to the pilot position on the deep fryer. While lighting the pilot, depress the gas valve and after 30 seconds hold it down.
Continue holding down the gas valve for about one minute, after lighting up the pilot. Let the pilot burn for about 2 minutes and turn ON the valve then set the temperature.
Note: Use a long grill lighter to avoid contact with your hands.
For propane Gas deep fryers, turn ON your propane tank’s gas valve and use a long match or lighter wand to light the burner.
Note that, if the burner doesn’t light, turn OFF the gas and wait for at least 2-3 minutes, and after that turn ON the gas again and light the burner.
Safety Tip: Do not use a Propane deep fryer inside your home.
4. Set up the Temperature
After turning On the deep fryer, close the lid and set the desired temperature for your food.
The temperature in most Electric deep fryers is between 250 to 375 degrees F.
Note: Many Electric deep fryers have an indicator light that turns On / Off (depending upon the deep fryer) when the oil is ready. Read your manual’s instructions to learn about it.
As for Gas deep fryers, do the same process. The maximum temperature in Gas deep fryers is 400 degrees F. Always keep an eye on the temperature of the oil.
In case the temperature goes above 400 Degrees F during frying, lower the temperature through the control dial to prevent the food and oil from burning.
Also, if your deep fryer doesn’t have any temperature control dial, you can use a Handy Temperature Indicator for noting the temperature of the oil.
Some Electric deep fryers have a digital display system that displays the temperature throughout the cooking process so you don’t need any separate indicators to check the temperature.
We have made this chart for the correct temperature of separate meals so you can take an idea from it.
| FOOD | TEMPERATURE |
|---|---|
| Fresh French Fries | 375 °F |
| Chicken Wings | 375 °F |
| Shrimps | 375 °F |
| Chicken Nuggets | 365 °F |
| Onion Rings | 375 °F |
| Donuts | 375 °F |
| Chicken | 375 °F |
| Cheese Sticks | 350 °F |
| Egg/ Spring rolls | 350 °F |
| Fish | 350 – 375 °F |
Note: For setting the accurate temperature you can get help from your deep fryer manual’s temperature chart as well.
5. Fill the Basket with Food
This step is a precautionary step as well.
If the food is wet, first dry it thoroughly with a tissue paper/dry paper towel and then add it to the deep fryer.
Other than that, if you are frying frozen food, defrost it first, otherwise, if you put it in the deep fryer without defrosting, it will splatter the oil.
Note: Do not put too much food in the basket because then the food will not fry well and will result in greasy and raw food.
6. Lower the Food Into the Deep Fryer
Now, when the oil reaches the desired temperature, lower the basket carefully in the fryer and close the lid to avoid any oil splatters/vapors.
If your Electrical deep fryer doesn’t have a frying basket, use a frying ladle or tongs. Also, if your deep fryer comes along with a handy lift and drain scoop, use that.
Do the same thing for Gas deep fryers.
7. Note the Time and Watch Your Food
Now, note the accurate time for your food.
Don’t walk away from the food. In case you are busy with other tasks, it is good to set an alarm on your cell phone or alarm clock to avoid over-frying the food.
Some new Electric deep fryers come along with a built-in Adjustable Timer. If your deep fryer has one, you just need to adjust the accurate time through the control dial. Once the food is ready, the timer will beep until you turn it Off.
Also, note that in some deep fryers the timer automatically turns Off the fryer completely when the adjusted time has elapsed. But others require you to turn it Off yourself. Read the manual’s instructions carefully before using the timer.
Like the temperature, we have also created a time chart so that you can get an idea of the accurate time for different foods.
| FOOD | TIME |
|---|---|
| Fish | 3 – 6 minutes (the accurate time also depends on the parts of the fish you are frying) |
| Chicken Nuggets | 3 – 4 minutes |
| Shrimps | 1 – 2 minutes |
| Chicken | 18 – 20 minutes |
| Donuts | 2 minutes on each side |
| Fresh French Fries | 5 – 6 minutes |
| Frozen French Fries | 6 – 10 minutes |
| Chicken Wings | 10 – 12 minutes |
| Cheese Sticks | about one minute or 30 seconds |
| Onion Rings | 2 – 3 minutes on each side |
| Frozen Hash browns | 4 ½ – 5 minutes |
Also, view the progress of the food through the viewing window( if your deep fryer has one).
In case the window becomes blurry, easily remove the lid and check on the food anytime because almost every deep fryer’s lid has a cool touch handle or else use a trivet/cloth to hold the handle.
8. Remove the Food and Serve
Now, when the food is done frying, carefully lift the basket with the help of the handle. In case the handle is hot, use a trivet/cloth to hold it.
Hook the basket on the fryer like this to let the excess oil drain from the food. When the oil is completely drained, take out the food and serve it.
9. Let the Fryer Cool and Clean it
When you have served the food, leave the deep fryer for an hour or two to cool down. Thereafter, pour the oil into a separate oil container or jar.
Then clean all the removable parts of the deep fryer thoroughly with soapy warm water or any good dishwashing liquid (if your deep fryer is dishwasher safe) otherwise you can clean it with wet wipes or paper towels.
And if you intend to use it frequently, then just clean the basket and the lid after every use. But don’t forget to clean the deep fryer properly once a week.
The same is to be done for the Gas deep fryers.
Make sure to check our article on comparison between a deep fryer & air fryer.
FAQs
How to dispose of deep fryer oil?
You can dispose of the deep fryer oil in several ways but the best ones are:
- Pouring it into a container (plastic sealable containers are recommended) once it is cooled down. And simply throw the container into the garbage bin. Make sure you have sealed the container/can tightly. If not, all the oil will spill into it and may even leak
- Other than that, you can pour the oil into a glass or plastic container/bottle/can, seal it tightly and freeze it. When it is perfectly hardened, take out the container and leave it for some time until it’s firm. After that, use a spoon to scoop the oil directly into the garbage bin.
How to cook frozen hash browns in a deep fryer?
It is super easy to fry hash browns in a deep fryer. Simply set the temperature to 350 degrees F, when the oil reaches the desired temperature, lower the basket of hash browns in the fryer and let it fry for about 4 – 5 minutes or until golden brown.
Also, don’t put too many hash browns at once, otherwise, they won’t turn out crispier and tender.
After they are golden brown, lift the frying basket and wait for at least 1-2 minutes or put them on a drying rack to drain the excess oil. And serve.
Can you reuse deep fryer oil?
Yes! Deep Fryer’s oil can be stored and reused approximately 6 – 8 times depending on the quality of the oil as well. However, if you often fry egg-coated foods and battered fish, you will have to change the oil more frequently. It’s good to strain the oil before storing it in the container.
When to dispose of the deep fryer oil?
When the oil changes its color and becomes dark and contains small leftover particles of the food, it’s time to dispose of the oil.
Also, if you are frying any battered or breaded food, oil should be used for three or maximum four times.
Is it necessary to leave the lid On when deep frying?
Yes! It is important to close the lid when you pour the food into the deep fryer. It will prevent the oil from splattering over you or the counter/walls and keeps the environment of your kitchen clean.
What are some precautions to take when deep frying?
Some major precautions of deep frying are:
- Do not fill the frying basket with too much food because it will always result in raw and greasy food.
- Do not overfill the deep fryer with oil because it will overflow when you place the food into it.
- For electric deep fryers, do not allow the power cord to be in touch with liquids like water or any other kind of liquid because it may result in electric shocks.
- Do not try to drain the oil immediately after frying. Let it cool for some time and then drain it carefully in containers or jars.
Wrapping Up
Using a deep fryer isn’t just about pouring oil and placing the food into it. One needs to follow the proper steps for the best results.
It takes some time and practice to perfectly use a deep fryer and ideally fry your food without any inaccuracy/accidents. Once you learn the do’s and don’ts, you will use it like a pro.
As the deep fryer requires thorough cleaning after use, you can have a look on how to clean a deep fryer easily for better tips and tricks.
What suggestions do you have for using a deep fryer more easily and safely?
