Deep Fryers: Useful Infomation

Some of the new generation of deep fryers are not only amazing, but look great!  Read on for information on deep fryers, as well a a great recipe.

While you might have perfected a number of recipes with your new deep fryer, that doesn’t mean you have every aspect of the machine down. For example, many people new to this cooking phenomenon are a bit lost about when to change the oil within the fryer. While it certainly doesn’t need it fresh every time, there are a few things to look out for when it comes to the oil in your deep fryers.

For one, if deep fryers smoke at normal temperatures, it’s definitely time to replace the oil. You should also be wary of strongly discolored oil or oil that emits even a somewhat rancid smell. Both of these can indicate oil that has turned. Many deep fryers allow you to remove the oil after each use, which many chefs recommend. The method of choice is placing that oil in a cool, dark place. In this way, the oil should be good for upwards of three months.

FAQs:

Q: The unit is set up and plugged in, the heating element is set into the well and has the proper amount of oil, but the oil is still not heating up. What’s wrong?

A: Look under the unit to check that the two rubber feet on the bottom of the unit are securely in place. Ensure the safety switch, just below the control panel (located at the top of the heating element), is pushed in. It must be pushed in for the unit to function. Be sure that the deep fryer unit is set up properly. If the deep fryer is setup correctly yet is not functioning, press the red reset button.  Aroma Co.

Q: Is it safe to place the heating element directly into the oil?

A: Yes. These deep fryers were specifically designed for the heating element to sit directly in the oil. The heating element must be placed into the well before the oil is added. Aroma Co.

Recipe for Shrimp Tempura
Ingredients:

2 1/2 qts. Vegetable oil for deep frying,  Salt and black pepper to taste.  2 1/2 lbs. Shrimp, peeled, deveined
2/3 cup Cornstarch, more if needed

Tempura Batter:

1 1/2 cups Cold water,  2 tsp. Baking powder,  1 1/2 cups Flour,  1/2 cup Sesame oil

Method:

1. Fill the inner pot with oil. Preheat oil to 375°F (Fry), set timer to 1 hour, press "ON". Place frying basket into oil to preheat.
2. Combine tempura batter ingredients in a medium size bowl. Batter should be fairly thin - add more water if necessary.
3. Dry shrimp with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Dredge in cornstarch. Dip into tempura batter. Place shrimp in preheated fryer basket. Carefully lower into hot oil, raise basket to remove the shrimp.
4. Deep fry until batter is lightly brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels. Turn the unit off. Serve with tempura dipping sauce or your choice of sauce.