Using Appliances: Deep Fryer Tips
Source of Recipe
www.crisco.com
Recipe Link: http://www.crisco.com/newsletter/jun2001/article2.htm
Follow these tips to get the best results with your deep-fried foods.
Preparing Food
* Have foods at room temperature when possible so that the temperature of Crisco shortening or oil is not drastically lowered by cold foods.
* Have food pieces a uniform size to allow each to cook in the same amount of time.
Preparing Fryer
* Proper temperature is important for best results. Use a deep-fry thermometer in fryers that don't have a temperature guide. Thermometer should be placed in fryer at the start of frying.
* If a deep-frying thermometer is not available, use this simple test to see if the fryer has reached the correct temperature:
* Fry a one-inch square of bread for one minute. If cube browns, the temperature will be about 365ºF.
* Actual heating time for Crisco shortening or oil in a deep fryer may vary with the brand of fryer. Plan on a minimum of ten minutes.
* Follow manufacturer's directions to determine the correct amount of shortening or oil to use, as deep fryers vary in size. Do not fill fryer over halfway. But for best results, do not skimp on the amount of shortening or oil. There should be enough to cover food and permit easy movement.
* Setting temperatures too low can result in greasy foods. Outside will not brown quickly enough to form a crust that will prevent entry of Crisco shortening or oil.
Cooking Food
* Here are safe ways to lower hot food into Crisco shortening or oil:
* Use a basket or slotted metal spoon to lower small pieces of food such as French fries and vegetables.
* Use tongs to lower larger pieces of food such as chicken.
* Use a teaspoon or tablespoon to carefully push batter or dough into hot Crisco shortening or oil.
* Use metal pancake turner to slide doughnuts or fish into Crisco shortening or oil.
* Do not use a fork to lift foods from the fryer. It will put holes in the food that will allow juices to escape and shortening or oil to enter. Tender foods will fall apart if picked up with a fork.
* Turn foods with slotted metal spoon, tongs, or metal pancake turner to prevent disturbing coating or puncturing the food.
Serving Food
* Keep foods warm on an ovenproof plate or pan in a very low temperature oven. Use low settings or 250ºF. Since fried foods are best when first fried, try to minimize warming time.
* Drain foods on paper towels. Place food in a single layer, then turn.
Reusing Crisco Shortening/Oil
Crisco can be reused for deep frying only. Fry at 365º to 375ºF. Cool the used Crisco about 1/2 hour, then carefully transfer to another container while straining through cheesecloth. Store in a cool place such as the refrigerator.
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