Frying Pots

A frying pot can help you turn a fresh catch, a batch of chicken or a mess of hush puppies into a meal worth gathering around. As you compare frying pots, start with what you plan to cook, how many folks you usually feed and the heat source you’ll be working with. Pot capacity tells you how much a vessel holds, but it isn’t the same as the amount of cooking oil you should add. Follow the manufacturer’s oil-fill directions and leave enough room for food displacement and bubbling. A deep frying pot should also fit your cooking setup, so check its dimensions and compatibility with your stove or outdoor fryer burner before making a choice. For larger foods, such as a whole turkey, look for equipment specifically intended for that job rather than choosing by size alone. Smaller batches can make it easier to manage the cooking process without crowding food together. Useful frying pot features depend on your menu and how you like to cook. If you’re considering a pot with a fryer basket, check that the basket fits properly and offers a practical way to lower, lift and drain the food. Handles should provide a secure grip with suitable heat protection, while a frying thermometer helps you monitor oil temperature throughout each batch. Pat food dry before frying, follow recipe guidance and let the oil return to the recommended temperature between batches for more consistent results. Set outdoor frying equipment on a level, noncombustible surface with the clearances required by the manufacturer, away from buildings, foot traffic, children and pets. Never leave hot oil unattended or add water to an oil fire. After supper, let the oil and equipment cool completely before draining or cleaning, then follow the care directions for your frying pot so it’s ready for the next backyard fish fry or family cookout.