In this article, we’ll have a detailed look at the T-Fal FR800050, our best deep fryer pick.
T-Fal (t-falusa) is one of the leading companies in kitchenware worldwide. It has been manufacturing products since the 1950s. T-Fal “FR800050” is an electric deep fryer and the finest model of T-fal.
Although this model of T-Fal is quite old, it still holds the same importance due to its attractive features and ease of use.
It is very popular among other deep fryers in the market.
Let’s move on to the detailed review of this deep fryer.
Specifications of FR800050
Oil Capacity | 3.5 Liters |
Food Capacity | 2.65 pounds of food at a time |
Product Dimensions | 18.3 x 13.7 x 14.8 inches |
Product Weight | 16.5 pounds |
Color | Silver-Black |
Body Material | Stainless steel |
Wattage | 1700 watts |
Viewing Window | Yes |
What Comes in the Box
The package will include the following items;
- Stainless steel housing
- Frying Basket with handle
- Lid (permanent filter, filter cover, handle)
- Plastic oil storage box/container
- Control panel with the heating element
- Safety carrying handles attached to the housing
- Magnetic cord
- Oil container (removable)
Assembling the Parts
Assembling the parts is very straightforward. Just attach all the removable parts that come along with this fryer. The removable parts include:
- Frying basket
- Lid
- Oil container
- Oil storage box
- Control panel and heating element
First, place the oil container in the stainless steel housing, set the control panel and heating element properly in the oil container, put it in the frying basket with the handle, then in the end close the lid. As simple as it sounds.
Also, after unboxing these parts, thoroughly wash them before using the deep fryer for the first time (as suggested by the manual ). Except for the control panel, all the parts are dishwasher safe.
However, you can also use soap and water to wash the parts and for the control panel and heating element, you can use a damp cloth/wipe.
Note: Some parts like oil containers or stainless steel housing are quite large so they may not fit in a small dishwasher.
Features of T-FAL FR800050 Deep Fryer
Capacity
- Oil capacity
T-fal FR800050 has a standard oil capacity of 3.5 liters. The minimum and maximum fill lines are already marked on the oil container, one has to pour the oil according to these lines. Filling the deep fryer more than the maximum line can lead to oil splashes and oil may overflow when you add the food basket.
- Food capacity
This deep fryer can make up to 2.65 pounds of food at a time which is perfectly fit for a family of 3-5 people.
One should not overfill the basket with food otherwise some pieces will be overcooked and some will remain uncooked or raw. Always add a reasonable amount of food, which is the key to having tender and crispy food.
Automatic Oil Filtration System
It is the main characteristic of the T-fal FR800050. Who doesn’t love to preserve the oil easily and without creating any mess?
This system filters the oil automatically from the oil container to the built-in oil storage box for the next use. It is a mess-free procedure because one does not have to go through all that process of preserving the oil in a separate container through flasks or strainers.
Other than that, you also don’t need any separate containers/jars to preserve the oil because it already has one. It not only saves oil and time but also saves money.
One does not have to be impatient with this process, because the oil will be drained by itself. Once the oil is cooled down to room temperature, move the dial to the “oil filtration” setting and the rest will be done automatically by the fryer.
Note: Do not try to filter the hot oil immediately after the frying process. Wait until the oil cools down to room temperature.
One more benefit of automatic oil filtration is that it makes the deep fryer easier to clean.
- Oil storage box
Now let us talk about the oil storage box that comes along with this deep fryer. The material of this box/container is plastic. There are certain modes for the oil storage box;
- Once you set the control button to the “automatic oil filtration” position, the remaining oil will be filtered in the oil box.
- Once you set the control button to the “Fry” position, the storage box will be locked and you can’t take it out, which is a nice safety feature as well.
- Once you set the control button to the “oil box” position, you can take it out and store it in the refrigerator (if you want to), otherwise leave it in the fryer.
For using the filtered oil next time, just simply move the control button to the “oil box” position and follow the further steps;
- Take out the oil storage box
- Open the cap
- Pour the oil into the fryer, close the cap of the storage box, and keep it back in its respective place. Then for frying the food, move the control button to the “Fry” position.
Also, the oil storage container/box is a little huge and it takes up a lot of space in the fridge, which is not that big a deal. But you can also use other small jars or oil containers as well (if you have one) or else you can leave it in the fryer as well.
Control Panel
T-fal FR8000’s control panel is very basic and includes the following;
- Temperature Control Dial
One can easily adjust the temperature through the control dial and the temperature in this deep fryer is alterable up to 374 degrees F. You can adjust it according to your food requirement.
For better temperature settings, one can get help from the manual as well. Because too low temperature will not fry the food completely and too high temperature may burn the food.
- Power and Ready Lights
It has dual indicator lights. One is the Power indicator, which shows that the appliance is plugged in and the other one is the Ready indicator, which signals that the oil is ready to fry the food.
Note: The ready indicator light automatically switches “OFF” when the oil gets hot or reaches the wanted level.
- Heating Element
This deep fryer comprises a powerful and professional immersed heating element attached to the control panel. The heating element is 1700 watts which helps the fryer to heat up faster. It also recovers the oil temperature quite quickly which ensures that the food is crispy and less greasy.
Two Positional Basket
T-Fal deep fryer has a large basket with a cool-touch handle. The basket is two-positional which is a really fine feature to have. The two positions are;
- For cooking purposes (you fill the basket and submerge the food in the oil where it cooks).
- For draining the oil from food (the frying basket drains out excess oil and prevents the food from being too oily).
Lid
The lid (cover) of this deep fryer consists of the following;
- Permanent filter
The permanent odor filter helps to reduce frying odors and keeps the environment of your kitchen good.
- Viewing window
It has a large viewing window which allows you to see the progress of food anytime. Although the window becomes blurry sometimes because of the steam and you are unable to see through it, still, the lid has a cool touch handle that makes it convenient for you to remove it and check the food whenever you want to.
Other Features
It has a magnetic cord as a safety feature that detaches easily when the fryer is pulled accidentally. The cord is almost 30 inches in length which is normal. In case you don’t have a nearby plug, you can use an extension board.
The whole exterior of this deep fryer is cool-touch including the handle of the basket, lid, and stainless steel housing. Although the exterior is cool touch still be careful about it, don’t touch it immediately after use.
Dishwasher Safe Parts
This model has removable parts which are dishwasher safe as well. The only part that can’t go in the dishwasher is the control panel with the attached heating element which cleans off easily in the sink or with wet wipes.
Cleaning with this deep fryer is a breeze. One just has to disassemble the parts i.e; the lid, oil container, basket, and stainless steel housing, and put them in the dishwasher.
If not in the dishwasher, simply make a mixture by adding any good dishwashing liquid in warm water and clean the parts with this mixture.
For cleaning this deep fryer or any other deep fryer, you can have a look at our detailed article on “How to clean a deep fryer“.
Pros and Cons of T-FAL FR800050
Now let’s have a quick look at the advantages and disadvantages of this deep fryer.
Pros
- Auto Oil-Filtration system with oil storage box
- Untroubled cleaning system
- Good quality
- Wide Range Temperature control
- Two positional basket
- Dishwasher safe parts
- Easy to use/clean
- Permanent odor filter
Cons
- Large in size; not suitable for small kitchen counters
- No timer
How To Use T-Fal Deep Fryer?
T-Fal FR800050 is quite simple to operate just like using any other deep fryer. For better understanding, we’ll do a step-by-step approach.
Step 1
First of all, assemble all the parts of this deep fryer i.e; attach the oil container to the stainless steel housing and place the control panel in the oil container properly.
Note: The control panel and heating element are the primaries, so place them properly otherwise the fryer won’t function.
Step 2
Attach the magnetic cord to the fryer and set the control button to the “Fry” setting. Pour the oil into the oil container (between the minimum and maximum fill lines marked).
Remember not to mix different oils because every oil has different frying temperatures and smoke points, and it may lead to some unfavorable conditions like; boiling over, and oils can release some chemical combinations into the food when they are heated above their smoke point which is unhealthy and the food may result in a burnt flavor.
However, it is best to use vegetable oil.
After pouring the oil, plug in the switch to turn ON the fryer. The “power indicator” will turn ON once you plug in the fryer.
Step 3
Set the temperature according to what you are frying and wait for the oil to reach the desired temperature. The “ready indicator” will turn OFF when the oil is hot enough.
Note: For accurate temperature settings, you can get help from the manual of this deep fryer as well.
Step 4
Now put the food into the basket and make sure the food is completely dried. Carefully lower the basket in the fryer and close the lid.
Note: Do not overfill the basket with food.
Step 5
Now, wait for the food to fry. Note the correct time for the food that is also mentioned in the manual. You can get help from that.
Here are some of the cooking time settings for you to have a sharp idea about timings.
FOOD | TIME |
---|---|
Fresh French Fries | 12-15 minutes |
Frozen French Fries | 14-16 minutes |
Chicken Nuggets (Fresh) | 18-20 minutes |
Fish Nuggets (Frozen) | 5-6 minutes |
Shrimps (Frozen) | 4-5 minutes |
Fish Filets (Fresh) | 5-6 minutes |
Fish Filets (Frozen) | 7-8 minutes |
Keep an eye on the food through its viewing window so that the food is not over-fried. In case the window becomes blurry simply remove the lid when you need to check the food.
Step 6
Now when the food is done frying, carefully remove the lid, lift the basket to drain the oil from the food, and serve the food.
Step 7
Unplug the fryer and let the oil cool to room temperature. Once it is cooled down, set the control button to the “Oil filtration” setting and let it drain the oil. Approximately it will take about 10-12 minutes for the oil to be drained (also depending on the quantity of oil).
When the oil is completely drained, you can leave the oil reservoir/storage box in the fryer, or else you can simply take it out, close its lid and place it in the fridge or somewhere on the shelf in a cool place.
Step 8
Now disassemble the parts and clean them thoroughly with soapy warm water or directly place them in the dishwasher.
You can also add hot water in the fryer with some dishwashing liquid and leave it for at least 20 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with cool water (one can use scrub as well to clean stubborn grease).
Clean the heating element and control panel with slightly wet wipes and make sure not to immerse it in the water or any other dishwashing liquid mixture.
After that let all the parts dry thoroughly.
Once the parts are completely dried, assemble them properly again for the next use.
Our Expectations Vs. How it Really Performed
As T-fal is a worldwide leading brand, our expectations were quite high. It is very basic to operate. Well, we fried chicken wings, French fries, shrimp, onion rings, cheese sticks, and much more, and all of them turned out so well. The resulting food was always crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Other than that, in terms of functionality, it won the game.
After testing this deep fryer for some time, we found it to be a very good, durable, and functional deep fryer. However, some things have weakened over time such as the oil filtration system.
After some years the oil drainage vat won’t play its role completely and the oil left in the last section won’t drain towards the valve.
You will have to pour that oil into the container/storage box by yourself. But try to give special consideration to it, don’t use the oil filtration very frequently so that it can last long.
Overall, it performed very well in every way and according to our expectations, and that’s one of the reasons why we chose it as our best pick.
Consumers Ratings & Reports
Hundreds and thousands of people used this deep fryer and rated it 4.6 out of 5. Almost 77% of people rated it a 5 star.
Consumers reported that, T-Fal FR800050 worked perfectly fine for them. They found it easy to assemble and easy to use as well.
Almost everyone loved its unique self-oil filtration system because it made it easier for them to filter the clean oil and it also made cleanup much more easy. It takes approximately 7-8 minutes for it to heat up.
Additional features such as two positional baskets, temperature control, a multifunctional lid, and an adjustable thermostat were very appreciated by the consumers and they were satisfied with their purchase. They admired the price range as well for what it offers.
Comparison to its Alternates
Now that we have reviewed the T-fal FR800050, it’s time to have a look at its alternatives. Although there is a lot in common between all the deep fryers, still some things are different based on the model, size, capacity, and some features as well.
Now without further ado let’s talk about the alternatives to FR800050.
T-FAL FR800050 | T-FAL FR600D51 | T-FAL FR390051 | KALORIK 3.2 Quart | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Product Dimensions | 18.3 x 13.7 x 14.8 inches | 17.44 x 9.25 x 10.53 inches | 17.3 x 14.6 x 13 inches | 16.25 x 9.5 x 11.5 inches |
Product Weight | 16.5 Pounds | 11 Pounds | 13 Pounds | 9.36 Pounds |
Oil Capacity | 3.5 Liters | 3.5 Liters | 4 Liters | 3.2 Quarts |
Food Capacity | 2.65 pounds of food at a time | – | Triple frying baskets (large food capacity) | – |
Body Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
Wattage | 1700 watts | 1800 watts | 1800 watts | 1700 watts |
Color | Silver-black | Silver-black | Silver | Silver |
Viewing Window | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Timer | No | Yes | No | Yes |
T-FAL FR800050 Vs T-FAL FR600D51 Deep Fryer
The main section of FR800050 is its “oil filtration system” that automatically filters the clean oil for next use. While the main section of FR600D51 is its “unique active filtration system” that reduces the frying odors up to 75% during frying the food and lets you have odorless cooking that keeps your kitchen and house free of all that smell.
FR600D51 also has a built-in timer that is adjustable for up to 30 minutes. While FR800050 lacks a timer.
FR600D51 also allows you to lower and raise the food basket with the lid closed and prevents you from oil splatters or any burns and also keeps the kitchen countertops clean.
Other than that, the viewing window of FR600D51 comprises an “anti-fog system” which keeps the window away from steam or fog and you can clearly watch the progress of the food. FR800050 doesn’t have these features.
However, the T-Fal FR800050 is still more expensive than the FR600D51.
The FR600D51 has the same feature of removable and dishwasher safe parts as the FR800050, which makes cleanup a breeze.
Both these fryers perform well in terms of functionality. We will recommend the T-Fal FR600D51 if you want a less expensive deep fryer with all the great features and good quality, except for the “oil filtration system”. If filtering oil is not a problem for you, then you may go for FR600D51.
T-FAL FR800050 Vs T-FAL FR390051 Deep Fryer
The major difference between FR800050 and FR390051 is the number of baskets and food capacity.
T-Fal FR390051 has triple frying baskets (one large, two small). You can fry two different items at a time with two small baskets, and a big batch of food in the large basket, while FR800050 has one single frying basket.
FR390051 also comprises a cool zone technology located below the heating element that keeps the oil clean for a longer period of time and prevents the batter from burning.
The feature in common between the two is the professional heating element that heats up faster and makes sure that the food absorbs minimal oil for healthier results.
The FR390051 doesn’t have a viewing window in the lid, which means you will need to remove the lid every time to see the progress of food.
Other than that, we have noticed that cleaning the basket, after frying battered foods, is quite difficult and takes a lot more time than usual. It is because the batter sticks to the basket wires during frying.
But it’s not a big deal, one can preheat the basket in the oil for about 3-4 minutes, then add the food carefully in the basket already immersed in the oil (good to wear gloves while doing such a thing).
Overall, FR800050 and FR390051 both are good at frying food perfectly and both have dishwasher safe parts for easy cleanup.
However, in terms of price, FR390051 is more expensive than FR800050.
We’ll recommend the FR390051 if you want a large food capacity and triple frying baskets, good quality, and an easy-to-use deep fryer. And if you are looking for an inexpensive deep fryer with other amazing features then you may go for FR800050 or FR800050.
T-FAL FR800050 Vs KALORIK 3.5 Quart Digital Deep Fryer
Kalorik 3.5 Quart digital deep fryer is the forthright competitor to T-fal FR800050 deep fryer.
Both of them feature the unique “oil filtration system” that automatically filters the clean oil into a storage container with just a mere touch of a button. It is the main section of them both. They also come along with separate oil containers/storage boxes, which save you time as well as money.
One thing that makes Kalorik Deep Fryer better than the T-fal FR800050 is the “Digital Display” on the control panel. The screen displays the settings for temperature and time, you can adjust them with a mere touch of a button on the control panel. The “adjusted/selected” Temperature and Time are also displayed on the digital screen.
It has a built-in adjustable timer for up to 30 minutes, while FR800050 lacks these two amazing features.
Everything else in the Kalorik Digital deep fryer is the same as the FR800050. They both have removable and dishwasher safe parts i.e; frying basket, lid, oil container, and housing, which are easy to clean.
As far as price is concerned, Kalorik Digital Deep Fryer is affordable and less expensive than the T-fal FR800050. However, in terms of durability, FR800050 is much better.
If you are looking for a good quality deep fryer with an oil filtration system, not a burden on the pocket i.e; less expensive, and other new features such as digital controls, and a built-in timer, then we will recommend you the Kalorik Deep Fryer over T-fal FR800050.
You may also like: Air Fryer Vs. Deep Fryer Comparison
FAQs Regarding T-Fal Deep Fryer
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding T-Fal Deep Fryer that we have answered.
Is it okay to leave the oil storage box in the fryer while frying the food?
Yes, it is absolutely okay! The settings are made in such a design that hot oil remains separated from the plastic oil storage box. And when in the “Fry” position, the storage box is locked and you can’t take it out until and unless you set the control button to the “oil box” setting.
How often should I change the oil in this deep fryer?
In T-Fal FR800050, the oil remains clean for a longer period of time because of its unique EZ clean oil filtration system. Normally, the oil in every deep fryer is changed after 8 to 10 uses, but in this deep fryer, you can change the oil even after 12 uses (also depends upon the condition/color of the oil). If the color of the oil is changed to dark brown, then change the oil.
What problems can one face with the EZ clean filtration system?
There are not many problems with the EZ clean oil filtration system but according to what we have noticed, after some years the oil drainage vat won’t play its role completely. The oil left in the last section won’t drain towards the valve.
You will have to pour that oil into the container/storage box by yourself. The solution to this problem is that one should not use the oil filtration system very frequently so that it can last for a longer run.
What is in the T-fal deep fryer’s manual?
The manual of T-fal contains all the information about the deep fryer, even the small details. You can get help in terms of the following;
- How to assemble it
- Safety precautions
- Parts and features
- How to use it for the first time
- Do’s and don’ts
- Cleaning and Maintenance
It also mentions the accurate temperature and time settings for different foods.
Conclusion
T-Fal FR800050 is one of the few best deep fryers, all due to its enchanting features and amazing performance. It has a wattage of 1700 watts and an Oil capacity of 3.5 Liters. We liked this deep fryer because it is very simple to use and easy to control.
Its adjustable thermostat and temperature control system also helps us to fry the food perfectly and avoid over-fried food. The EZ clean oil filtration system is the main key of this deep fryer and we love how easy it made it for us to filter the “clean” oil with no effort.
Everything about its features is great. Cleaning this deep fryer is also not a big deal because of its dishwasher safe parts.
Not heavy on the pocket, with all of the impressive characteristics that a deep fryer should offer, we consider this the best one for a family of 3-5 people. Overall, we love this deep fryer and we will rate it 9.5 stars out of 10.
Other than that, we have some amazing alternatives to this deep fryer and we’ll recommend them as well if they suit your requirements.
Let us know which deep fryer you end up considering buying.