How unhealthy are deep fat fryers?
We’re gonna say it: the deep fat fryer is every nutritionist’s worst nightmare. But although it’s universally acknowledged that fried food is unhealthy, being loaded with calories and trans fats, even the most health-aware among us enjoys a toothsome treat every once in a while and that’s where the deep fat fryer comes into its own.
While we’re not advocating using one on a daily basis, there’s no denying that what deep-fried food lacks in nutrients, it makes up for in taste. It’s really a case of all things in moderation.
What size deep fat fryer do I need?
Choosing the size of a deep fat fryer will depend primarily on how many are in your household and how much room you have available on your kitchen worktop or for storing it. Be aware that the oil capacity differs from food capacity, so be sure to check how much food the device can accommodate or how many portions it can cater for before parting with your cash. Generally speaking, a 1L or 1.5L model will serve one or two people, while 2L or 3L devices will cater for small or larger families respectively.
How to choose the best deep fat fryer for you
There are several factors to take into account when shopping for a deep fat fryer.
Capacity
This is arguably the number-one consideration and the capacity you opt for will depend on the number of people in your household. Most standard-sized deep fat fryers will have a food capacity of at least 1kg, while smaller, more compact models can hold as little as 400g.
Practicality
Is the deep fat fryer simple to use? Does it warm up and fry food quickly? How do you drain the oil? Will it fit on your kitchen worktop or in a cupboard when not in use? Read as many reviews as possible about the model you’re thinking of buying, and ask for fryer recommendations from friends and family members if possible.
Cleaning
How easy is it to clean? A deep fat fryer that comes apart or has parts that can go in the dishwasher will obviously be simpler to clean than one that doesn’t.
Safety
A device with features such as auto shut-off, a locking lid, viewing panel, non-slip feet and a cool-touch or foldable handle have safety in mind and help to avoid any spillages or splashes of hot oil. Side handles are also useful for easy carrying.
Additional features
What other features does the appliance have? For example, some models have a handy timer, indicator lights and automatic oil drainage and filtering.
Price
Ranging in price from under £20 to over £100, choose a deep fat fryer to suit your budget.
Finish
Whether you go for a model that’s black, white or stainless steel is simply a matter of personal taste.
Which deep fat fryer should I buy?
The best deep fat fryer is the Swan SD6040N 3 Litre Stainless Steel Fryer. Reasonably-priced, easy to use and with reassuring safety features, it’s ideal for smaller households – or possibly larger ones if you’re prepared to keep the food warm like they do down the chippy.
With seven temperature settings and a viewing window to monitor progress, it excels at cooking perfectly crispy chips. With this beauty in your arsenal, you may even forgo getting a takeaway again – the results are that good!
How we chose our recommendations
We first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out what Mumsnet users were saying about deep fat fryers, noting their feedback and favourite brands. From there, we did some research across the wider web, consulting independent review sites and looking at reviews of top-rated products. Having collated all that information, we picked the deep fat fryers we thought were worthy of taking the titles in an array of interest categories.