If you fall short when trying to recreate your favourite restaurant dishes at home, it could be because you’re cutting corners with your cooking technique. Sometimes, you need to go all in - whether that’s using a sous vide for the perfect salmon or a deep fryer for delicate tempura vegetables and soft shell crab.
With the right deep fryer in your kitchen you can lift your culinary game for special occasions, or add an authentic crunch to fish and chip night. With multiple options on the market, finding the perfect deep fryer may seem overwhelming, but fear not, we're here to simplify the process for you. Let's delve into the world of deep fryers so you can confidently buy the right model and become the fry master general of your kitchen!
Understand your cooking needs
Before you jump out of the frypan and into the deep fryer, take a moment to think about your cooking habits. How frequently do you plan to use the fryer? What kinds of dishes are you eager to prepare?
For occasional indulgences like homemade fries or doughnuts, a basic model would suffice. However, if you're an adventurous foodie keen on exploring a wide array of fried delights, from Southern-style chicken wings to French beignets, opting for a fryer with advanced features and a larger capacity may be more fitting.
Capacity and size matters
Deep fryers come in various sizes, catering to different kitchen setups and cooking needs. From compact units suitable for small kitchens or individuals to larger fryers ideal for families or gatherings, there's something for everyone.
When selecting the size, think about the quantity of food you intend to fry in one batch. A lot of domestic deep fryers will have an oil capacity of around 3 to 4 litres, which enables you to cook approximately 1-1.3kg of food. While a larger fryer allows for bigger portions and shorter cooking times, ensure you have space to comfortably store it when it’s not in use.
Advanced features
Some deep fryers boast advanced features like automatic oil filtration, which cleans the oil after each use, prolonging its life and ability to be reused. Smart food timers enable precise cooking, while cool-touch handles enhance safety during operation. Stainless steel exteriors, meanwhile, offer durability and easy cleaning, making them the preferred material for many home cooks.
Temperature control is key
Achieving that perfect golden crispness requires precise temperature control. Look for deep fryers equipped with adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to customise the heat according to the food being fried. This feature ensures consistent results with a crispy exterior and tender interior every time you cook.
Safety features
Safety should always be top priority in the kitchen. Choose deep fryers with safety features such as cool-touch exteriors, automatic shut-off mechanisms, and secure locking lids to prevent accidents. These features are especially important in households with children or pets around.
Ease of cleaning
Frying can be messy, but cleaning up afterwards doesn't have to be a hassle. Many fryers will have removable parts, like the fry basket, that are dishwasher safe and simplify the cleaning process.
Energy efficiency
More energy-efficient models heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature, reducing both cooking time and energy consumption. Not only does this benefit the environment, but it also saves you money on utility bills in the long run.
How much do deep fryers cost?
The price of deep fryers varies depending on size, features, and brand. Good quality countertop electric deep fryers typically range from around $100 to $300. Domestic deep fryers will generally come with a 1-year warranty. Larger commercial deep fryers suitable for commercial kitchens are a different proposition and will cost thousands of dollars.
A healthier way to deep fry
While deep-fried food is delicious, it's not renowned for being healthy. However, there are a couple of key ways to make it less unhealthy. Firstly, opt for healthier cooking oils such as olive or canola oil. Secondly, avoid overloading the fryer with too much food at once. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which results in longer cooking times and oilier food.
Deep Fryer Checklist
- Consider your cooking frequency and preferred dishes to choose between basic and advanced models.
- Balance capacity with kitchen benchtop space to find the perfect-sized fryer.
- Opt for fryers with adjustable temperature settings for precise frying control.
- Prioritise safety features like cool-touch exteriors and automatic shut-off for peace of mind while frying.
- Opt for fryers with dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.
- Select energy-efficient fryers to save on energy costs and reduce environmental impact.
- Compare prices and features to find a deep fryer that fits your budget and cooking needs.
- Use healthier oils and avoid overcrowding the fryer for healthier fried foods.
With these pointers in mind, you're ready to order your new deep fryer and elevate your home cooking to Masterchef heights!
Crispy delights are just a click away!
Appliances Online stocks highly rated deep fryers by Breville, Tefal and Kambrook, as well as other small kitchen appliances like air fryers, blenders and food mixers from Delonghi, Sunbeam and other leading brands.
Our legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population (enter your postcode at the top of this page to check your delivery location eligibility). And, if it’s in stock, you’ll usually receive it the day after ordering (Mon-Fri).
We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old appliances, from fridges and freezers to deep fryers and cooktops, away to be recycled, at no charge when delivering your new one. For more pointers on choosing everything from multicookers to bread makers, read our Buying Guides, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.