Clicky

Best Small Deep Fryer For Home Use – 2022 Reviews & Buying Guide

If there’s one thing we love about the culinary world is that it knows no such thing as “out with the old, in with the new” boundaries. So, even though new food trends spring up like mushrooms here and there, most home cooks/foodies stay true to the flavors that make their taste buds swoon every time (even if that means they need to ignore their healthy eating goals for a little while).

Deep fried food is one of these guilty pleasures. Luckily, state fair food stands are not the only way to get access to your favorite crunchy, golden bites. Home deep fryers can also do the trick, helping you save a pretty penny down the line. Plus, they are so easy to use that deep-frying veggies and ice cream will feel like second nature after a while. So, if you are ready to up your cooking game and go all out during those cheat days, these top 7 small deep fryers for home will take you one step closer to your favorite crispy treats.

Best Deep Fryers for home use in 2021, Reviewed

Between the massive tank of a propane-fueled fryolator and the peace of mind that comes with an electric-powered model that shuts off on its own, now you know what it takes to choose the best deep fryer in the market. But still; scrolling through dozens of Amazon pages and trying to figure out which models are worthy of your countertop is a tedious and time-consuming task. To spare you a headache, we’ve gathered around the 7 best small deep fryers that can turn your otherwise crunch-less meals into heaps of crispy goodness with the push of a button. Let’s fry to moon and back, shall we?

1. Cuisinart CDF-200 Deep Fryer

Cuisinart CDF-200 Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you are looking for a large deep fryer to feed a crowd but hate to spend hours and hours on cleaning, then this model should be your go-to choice. Sporting a 4-quart frying chamber, this device can cook up to 2.3 pounds of food. From a culinary standpoint, that’s enough to feed a large family. It also features a pouring spout that makes cleaning a cinch. And still, this is just the beginning. Read on to find out everything else this deep fryer has to offer.

  • Easy to Clean

Whoever said that cleaning a deep fryer is a hassle never laid his/her hands on this model. The lid, the oil container, and the basket are dishwasher-safe, so you don't have to worry about scraping grease and burnt food off of the surfaces. Plus, it comes with a pouring spout which helps you dispose of the oil more efficiently.

  • Large Capacity

This model is designed to cook up to 2.3 pounds of food in one go. With that in mind, it can accommodate the needs of a largish family or a small-scale party.

  • Fast Heat-Up

Equipped with an 1800-watt heating element, this appliance is also known for its fast heat-up. That means that it can reach maximum temperature (360-375oF) in about ten minutes.

  • Fast Temperature Recovery

Did you know that when you submerge food in a deep fryer, the oil's temperature drops at least 20-30oF? To keep you from waiting until the temps are back up, this model's unique heating system makes sure the oil is reheated as quickly as possible between batches.

  • High-Quality Frying

Due to its unique immersion-style heating element, this product can help the unit keep a steady temperature throughout the cooking process. As a result, all foods are fried uniformly and acquire that restaurant-worthy flavor that could put any fast food menu item to shame.

  • Safe to Use

It comes with a lid that prevents oil from spitting and burning you. Not only that but the basket sports a cool-touch handle that prevents any accidents as you sink the food in or out the tank.

  • Compact Design

Despite its large frying capacity, this deep fryer has a compact design with clear lines and space-saving feats that make storing a breeze.

  • Easy-to-Handle Basket

This device features a small frying basket which is designed to hold almost 2.5 pounds of food. On top of that, it has a retractable handle that minimizes the appliance's footprint when not in use. You just tack it in the tank, close the lid and set the fryer aside or store it in your cabinet. It's as simple as that.

  • Durable Materials

The casing of the fryer, as well as the basket, are made of stainless steel, a long-lasting material that is resistant to corrosion. Since both of these parts are exposed to high temperatures and an acidic environment, this anti-corrosive material can prolong the device's lifespan with little to no maintenance.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • Misleading Thermostat

According to many reviews and our first-hand experience, this model has a somewhat unreliable temperature system. In particular, the thermostat tends to fluctuate a bit, often showing a deceptive temp value. For instance, it may indicate that the oil's temperature has reached 350oF while it's almost at 360oF.


2. T-Fal FR8000 Immersion Deep Fryer

T-Fal FR8000 Immersion Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you are on the market for a cost-efficient deep fryer that will not burn a hole in your wallet, then this model is a safe bet. Equipped with a patented oil filtration system, it automatically preserves the oil in a sealed box at the bottom of the fryer after every use. However, keeping you from recycling the oil every time you cook is just one of this model’s perks. Intrigued much? Here’s everything else this device has in store for you (both good and bad).

  • Oil Filtration System

This deep fryer features a patented oil filtration system which automatically drains the oil from the tank after every use. So, here's how it goes: Once the oil reaches room temperature (usually 2-3 hours after cooking), the device transfers it in a sealed box just below the tank. During this transfer, the appliance also filters away any food residues.

As a result, the inside of the fryer is free of grime or hardened oil, and most importantly the casing doesn't smell like fried donuts (or whatever it is that you were cooking) afterward. This patent doesn't just make cleaning easier; it also keeps the oil as fresh as possible for future use. That is a huge money-saver!

  • Large Capacity

Capable of frying 2.65 pounds of food in one go, this model is perfect for anyone who wants to produce massive amounts of their favorite fried treats with minimal effort. So, whether you are having a party or just want to treat your largish family to an all-American meal, this unit never fails to deliver.

  • Easy to Clean

As mentioned above, this model features a unique patent which makes the disposing of used oil a cinch. Not only that, but most of the unit's parts such as the lid, the frying basket, the oil box at the bottom and the inner bowl are dishwasher-safe.

  • Adjustable Temperature

Unlike many of its peers, this unit comes with an adjustable temp feature that allows you to fry each food according to the recipe's instructions. Now you can be 100% sure that your meals are cooked to perfection, and you can get the most out of your deep frying experience. It's also worth mentioning that the temperature indicator light switches off when the requested temperature is reached. That means that the device is now working to maintain the food's optimum frying temp.

  • Sturdy Construction

The parts that come in contact with oil, as well as the exterior side of the fryer, are made of brushed stainless steel. This material is known for being resistant to corrosion, acidic reactions, and high temperatures. That immediately makes the fryer a reliable and safe choice. Besides that, the plastic parts of this unit are heavily insulated to prevent heating up, melting and burning. Lastly, it comes with four plastic “feet” at the bottom (one for each corner) which keep the fryer grounded at all times.

  • 2-Position Basket

The frying basket of this model has two positions. The first one has to do with the unit's cooking part where the basket is completely submerged in the hot oil. The second one is all about draining the food. So, once you are done frying your meals, you attach the basket on the support hook that's located on the inside of the fryer, and all excess oil makes its way into the tank.

  • Efficient Heating System

As mentioned above, hot oil tends to lose some of its heat when you add cold/frozen food in the tank. However, this model sports a high-quality immersed heating element that helps the oil recover its temperature rather quickly. That prevents your foods from absorbing more oil than they should as they wait for the temps to come back up and reach optimum frying status. No more soggy chicken wings for you!

  • Odor Filter

It features a permanent odor filter mechanism and a ventilation area which prevent the odor from escaping and crowding your kitchen. It also has a transparent viewing window which allows you to check on the food without opening the lid and letting the smell of the frying foods leak throughout your house.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • Doesn't Fry Efficiently At 350oF and Above

Even though this model is known for its massive output at and below 350oF, it can't always produce the same high-quality results when it's set above that temperature. In fact, many previous owners mention that it takes forever to reach the desired temp, a practice that often takes a toll on the fryer's plastic parts, some of which end up melting.


3. Presto 05420 Fry Daddy Electric Deep Fryer

Presto 05420 Fry Daddy Electric Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you lack the kitchen space but need an efficient deep fryer that will meet your needs every single time, then this model is a dream come true for you. Sporting a tubular shape with a compact 7-inch diameter, this unit has a small footprint and is perfect for anyone with limited counter or cabinet space. Of course, its small size doesn’t mean that it lacks the potential. In fact, here are six reasons why this model can take your deep frying experience to a whole new level.

  • Easy to Clean

This model is made of a non-stick material (inside and out). While that means that you can't load it in the dishwasher, non-stick appliances like this one are easy to clean. You just remove any food residues, wipe the surfaces with a paper towel or cloth, and you are good to go. It's as simple as that!

  • Affordable

Costing less than 30$, this model is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to spend much on fancy equipment. It also features a small frying capacity which calls for just 4 cups of oil in one batch. That means that it allows you to save lots of money on ingredients, especially if you use it on a regular basis.

  • Compact Design

With a total of 9 square inches, this fryer is the epitome of a compact-sized appliance. As a result, it thrives in small spaces, whether that's your dorm room or a crowded kitchen.

  • Preset Thermostat

Equipped with a preset thermostat, this model takes the guesswork out of deep frying and manages the whole process automatically. If you are a deep-frying newbie, this feature may come in very handy.

  • Snap-On Lid

This product comes with a snap-on lid which allows you to store the used oil inside the fryer and avoid messing your counter or crowding your kitchen with foul odors.

  • Easy to Move Around

Since it weighs a little less than 4lbs, this fryer is ideal for camping trips and even tailgating parties. Just plug it in a nearby generator, and you can enjoy your favorite deep fried meals while on the go.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • Small Capacity

According to the manufacturer, this unit can cook up to 4 cups of food at once. While for some, this may be enough, households with lots of people may disagree. So, if you want to treat your large family to a serving of deep fried veggies, then this model is not for you.


4. Bayou Classic 700-701 4-Gallon Fryer

Bayou Classic 700-701 4-Gallon Fryer

View on Amazon

If your love for deep fried food runs deep and you want to enjoy just the very best flavors, then this model is all you need. Even though it’s not quite like the other home deep fryers on this list, this unit guarantees a perfect crunch every time thanks to the precision of a propane-fueled mechanism. Plus, it’s big enough to cook foods for 6-8 people. So, if you are ready to treat your friends to Shake-Shack-worthy bites, here’s what you need to know about this best-selling deep fryer.

  • Huge Capacity

This deep fryer is designed to hold about 4 gallons of oil at a time. That means that it can cook large quantities of food in one go. Thanks to its large capacity, this model is perfect for an outdoor party or a family with restless kids.

  • Long-Lasting Materials

Made of stainless steel, this model is known for its sturdy construction.

  • Fast Heat-Up

Despite its large tank, this fryer heats up rather quickly thanks to its high-quality heating system. Most users claim that it takes about 12-15 minutes to reach 350oF which is the optimum temperature for most foods. That's not long if you consider that the tank can hold up to 4 gallons of oil.

  • Easy-to-Handle Drain Valve

This model has a drain valve at the bottom and a removable hose which make the disposing of the oil a lot easier.

  • Temperature Adjustment

This fryer runs on propane. As a result, it comes with a gas regulator which allows you to control the oil temperature, depending on the foods you cook. You simply need to adjust the gas flow, and the temp will either increase or decrease. This unit also has a built-in thermometer that warns you when the oil reaches 400oF. At that point, you need to reduce the gas flow and give the oil some time to cool or else your food will burn.

  • V-Bottom Design

It also features an innovative V-shaped design which forces the oil at the bottom to be cooler than that on the surface. This way batter residues don't scorch, and the oil can be used for longer.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • Tricky to Store

Given its bulky size, this product can be tricky to store. So, unless you have a big yard and a sheltered area to place it during the winter months, it's best to opt for a smaller fryer.


5. Presto 05442 Cool Daddy Deep Fryer

Presto 05442 Cool Daddy Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you are a deep-frying newbie and would like to invest in a unit that guides you through the process, then this model screams your name. Equipped with indicator lights and a bunch of removable parts, this fryer leads the way, from the moment you turn it on until it’s clean-up time. So, are you ready to master the art of deep frying? ‘Cause this model has it all!

  • Odor Filter

This unit comes with a mesh charcoal filter that prevents frying odors from leaking throughout your kitchen.

  • Fast Heat-Up

Thanks to its 1500-watt power unit, this fryer takes about 12 minutes to heat up. That means that you don't just save time but also a significant amount of energy.

  • Adjustable Temp Settings

It also has a temperature-adjusting feature that allows you to switch between 250, 300, 340 and 375oF depending on the food you are cooking. That guarantees you'll always enjoy the crispiest treats with no signs of oily sogginess.

  • Cool-Touch Design

This device also features a cool-touch exterior which protects you against burns.

  • Newbie-Friendly Features

If this is your first time using a deep fryer, this model takes the guesswork out of the whole process with a bunch of user-friendly features. First of all, it has a handy indicator light which shows you when the oil has reached the desired temperature and is ready for frying. It also has a large viewing window which allows you to take a peek at your food as it's cooking so that you know when it's ready.

It's also worth mentioning that it comes with a locking lid that prevents oil from spitting during use. Last but not least, the basket is specially designed to lower into hot oil with the lid closed. That spares you the splattering mess and possible burns.

  • Large Capacity

This fryer can cook up to 6 cups of food at a time. Even though that's not a lot, it is enough to feed a medium-sized family.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • No Drainage System

Unlike many of the models on this list, this one doesn't feature a drainage system which makes the disposing of oil a tad more difficult.


6. Hamilton Beach 35034 Electric Deep Fryer

Hamilton Beach 35034 Electric Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you want to cook massive amounts of deep fried food with the least effort possible, then this model is your cup of tea. Designed to fit two baskets at the same time, it can produce about 12 cups of food in one go which is enough to feed a crowd. However, what makes this model stand out is its multiple user-friendly feats. From notifying you when the food is ready through an audible tone to heating up fast between batches, there’s not much that this high-tech fryer can’t do. Check out the rest of its perks down below.

  • Huge Capacity

According to the manufacturer, this device can cook up to 12 cups of food at once. The best part is that it comes with two small frying baskets and a large one to switch between them depending on what you have to cook.

  • Adjustable Temp Settings

It also comes with an adjustable temperature feature that enables you to choose between various temps depending on the foods you're cooking. These values range from 265oF (minimum) to 375oF (maximum).

  • Safe to Use

This high-tech deep fryer features a lid which prevents splatter when in use. It also has a viewing window which allows you to check the food as it's cooking without opening the lid and risking injuring yourself. Lastly, it comes with a breakaway cord which keeps the fryer from tipping over in case you stumble on it.

  • Efficient Cooking

This unit fryer is equipped with an immersed heating unit which boils the oil rather quickly and maintains its high temperature throughout the cooking process (even between batches).

  • Adjustable Timer

When you're cooking for lots of people, it's pretty easy to get distracted or lost in the moment. But, in moments like these, you often end up burning your food and ruining an otherwise perfect meal. With this fryer, there's zero chance of this happening ever again. The unit features an adjustable timer which allows you to determine for how long you want to cook your food. In the meantime, you can work on other things, and once your food is done, the distinct tune will notify you that it's time to pull it out.

  • Ready Light

This model also comes with a unique ready light which turns on when your food is cooked to perfection.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • No Filter Included

The only downside of this appliance is that it comes with no odor filter. However, it is compatible with Hamilton Beach's charcoal filter and is sold separately. So, you need to splurge a little if you don't want your kitchen to smell like fried food for the rest of the day.


7. Secura Triple-Basket Electric Deep Fryer

Secura Triple-Basket Electric Deep Fryer

View on Amazon

If you are looking for an affordable deep fryer that will do most of the work for you through an easy-to-navigate interface, then your search is complete. This model comes with an impressive set of features which include an accurate timer, adjustable heat control settings, a ready light and much more. If you want to take a closer look at the fryer’s capabilities, here’s what you should expect.

  • Fast Heating

This deep fryer is equipped with a 1700-watt power unit which can go from zero to hero in no time. As a result, the oil is heated in a short amount of time, allowing you to fry your favorite treats as soon as possible. This powerhouse of a unit also restores the heat loss between batches very quickly, preventing your foods from turning soggy and oily.

  • Easy to Clean

This device comes with a removable oil tank which makes clean-up and disposing of the oil a cinch. The baskets are also very easy to clean. You simply detach the handles from the main body of the basket and put both parts in the dishwasher. It's as easy as that!

  • Automatic Timer

It also features an automatic timer which can be set up to 60 minutes. So, when the time is up, it automatically shuts down the heating rods, allowing the oil to reach room temperature and preventing your foods from burning.

  • Ready Signal

It also has a ready signal which shows you when the oil has reached the requested frying temperature. That's very helpful for cooking multi-taskers (so, all of us).

  • Odor Filter

Being the top-rated deep fryer that it is, this model has a high-quality carbon filter which keeps any smells from lingering in your kitchen. This filter is located on the inside of the lid. So, when you have it on, all vapors exhumed from the tank pass through it, and most of the foul odors are captured and contained. According to the manufacturer's recommendations, you need to replace this filter once a year.

  • Adjustable Temperature Settings

It also comes with an adjustable heat control feature which enables you to fry food at the desired temperature. In fact, you can choose between 6 settings (250oF, 275oF, 300oF, 325oF, 350oF, 375oF).

  • Large Capacity

With a 4.2-liter oil tank, this deep fryer can help you cook massive amounts of food in one go. The best part is that it comes with three different frying baskets, two of which can be used side by side due to their small size. That means that you can cook two different types of food at the same time such as fish and chips or onion rings and French fries. The third one is a jumbo-sized basket that is perfect for deep frying large chunks of food such as chickens, turkey, etc.

 

Check Current Price on Amazon
  • Flimsy Handles

Many past owners claim that the handles are somewhat fragile. That occurs because they are designed to detach from the basket's main body. To avoid breaking them altogether, make sure you don't overload them and add more weight than they can handle.


What Is A Deep Fryer?

deep fryer chickenAlso known as a deep fat fryer, a deep fryer is a box-shaped kitchen appliance that is used to cook food by submerging it in hot fat, most commonly oil. In particular, the device features a tank and a heating system around it which brings the fat of choice to a boil. So, once the oil is hot enough, you simply sink the food in the tank and wait for it to turn into the crispy, golden goodness you know and love.

Even though this appliance has adopted many of the basic frying techniques, it takes them one step further and adds the submersion element to the mix. So, unlike traditional frying pans, a deep fryer makes sure all (and not just parts) of the food are dunked in oil; hence the nickname. That said, deep frying shouldn’t be confused with shallow frying or sauteeing.

How to Use A Deep Fryer

deep fryer fishContrary to popular belief, deep frying your foods is as easy as 1, 2, 3. However, since there are many electricity-powered parts involved (let’s not also forget about the boiling hot oil), things can take a turn for the worse if you are not careful. To prevent any accidents from occurring, here are the eight steps you need to take to use your brand new fryer as efficiently and safely as possible.

  • Step 1

Choose the right kind of oil. The truth is that there’s no shortage of cooking oils these days. But, not all of them are suitable for deep frying. So, before you go ahead and sizzle those chicken fillets to perfection, make sure you choose the right kind.

To do that, check out the high smoke point of the oil you’re about to use. PS: That’s just chef lingo for the temperature in which the fat starts breaking down and making your food burn. Oils with high smoke points are ideal for deep frying ’cause things can get very steamy very fast in that tank. So, skip the olive oil for once and opt for vegetable, peanut, soybean or canola oil instead.

  • Step 2

Add enough oil in the deep fryer. The first thing you need to keep in mind during this step is whether the device is off and cool. Never (we repeat, NEVER!) pour oil in a deep fryer while the heating plates are hot. If you do, chances are the oil will splash on you and burn your skin. Not to mention that it may combust due to the sudden temperature change. No one wants that, amiright?

Once you are 100% certain that the device is off, fill the tank with the fat of choice. To make sure you put enough oil in there, check the fryer’s minimum and maximum fill lines and proceed accordingly. Once again, keep a close eye on these lines so that you don’t overflow or underfill the tank because in both cases, accidents may occur.

  • Step 3

Turn on the fryer. These days most deep fryers come with an ON/OFF switch which makes the whole process much more accessible to you. However, there are models which feature adjustable temp settings, allowing you to cook your foods just the way you like them. Either way, make sure you don’t go lower than 325oF and higher than 375oF because that is pretty much the sweet spot for successful deep frying. Pro tip: If you see smoke coming out the fryer, it means that you’ve overheated the oil. In this case, turn the temp down a notch, or your food will burn.

  • Step 4

Prep the soon-to-be-fried food. By now you probably know that hot oil and water don’t mix. So, before tossing your favorite foods in the deep fryer, pat them down with a paper towel and remove all excess moist/water. This way you’ll prevent oil from spitting and splashing on you, potentially burning you.

  • Step 5

Submerge your food in the deep fryer. Some models come with a heat-proof basket. If that’s the case, add your goodies in the basket and slowly submerge it into the tank. If your model doesn’t have a basket, make sure you dunk the foods in the hot oil carefully (preferably one at a time). The safest way to do that is to use a pair of tongs. If your unit features a lid as well, top the tank with it and avoid the mess and possible splashing. PS: Never use plastic utensils around a deep fryer.

  • Step 6

Remove the foods once they turn golden/brown. Every food has a different frying time. So, each time you use the device, check the recipe’s instructions for the exact cooking time of the food you are about to cook. Also, keep in mind that most bites are cooked through in about 15 minutes, so make sure you never get past that timeframe or your deep fried goodies will get burnt. One easy way to avoid all these is to check how the food looks by lifting the basket. If the food hasn’t turned golden just yet, then it needs more time.

  • Step 7

Get rid of the excess oil. Once the food is cooked through, lightly shake the basket over the tank to remove excess oil and transfer the contents to a plate/pan lined with paper towels. The paper will absorb as much of the oil as possible, making your food taste that much better.

  • Step 8

Turn off the deep fryer and dispose of the oil. Unplug the device and let it cool down. Once the oil reaches room temperature -usually in a couple of hours-, transfer it into a sealable metal or plastic container (think coffee cans or milk jugs) and dispose of it at a grease collecting facility or in the trash. Whatever you do, though, don’t pour it down the drain or flush it down the toilet because it may clog your pipes. Not to mention that it is likely to cause an awful lot of damage to the environment.

If you are planning to use the oil again in the future, just strain it through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove any burnt food or batter residues. This way you’ll keep them from ruining the oil’s taste, smell and overall quality and your future batches will taste just as good as the first one.

Types of Deep Fryers

outdoor propane deep fryerFor some, deep fried food is considered an occasional treat, especially on a cheat day. But for others, indulging in crispy, golden meals at least once a week is a way of living. With that in mind, manufacturers have created two types of deep fryers, each of which is designed to meet different needs and eating habits. Whether you fall into the first or second category, here’s what you need to know about these two very different types of deep fryers.

  • Electric Deep Fryers

As the name implies, electric deep fryers are powered by electricity. This type of fryers is the most common option out there as it is safe to use indoors and can produce enough food for a whole family. That is, of course, if you opt for a model with a large tank. What’s also great about this type of fryers is that they are often more affordable than their propane-powered counterparts.

On the flip side, many fried food aficionados believe that this type of fryers simply can’t deliver the same crispy results as a propane fryer due to its limited power output. It’s also worth mentioning that smell tends to linger inside the tank whereas propane-fueled fryers don’t face such issues.

  • Propane Deep Fryers

If you want your food to be crunchy AF and have a big yard, then propane deep fryers are a no-brainer. This type of fryers utilizes gas (propane, in particular) to create enough power to sizzle your favorite treats to perfection, from veggies to meat. They are also known for their fast cooking times, allowing you to spend more time eating your food than frying it.

However, despite their wow-worthy results, propane fryers come with higher risks, especially if you don’t follow the recommendations to the tee. Another downside is that they can only be used outdoors. That limits their potential during wintertime and becomes a further nuisance to you in terms of storing.

 

What to Look For When Shopping For the best home Deep Fryer

“How hard can it be to deep fry a chicken?”, you think to yourself. “You just heat the oil, dunk those tenders in the tank and wait for them to get that appetizing golden glow that reminds you so much of KFC’s Zinger.”

Well, even though high-quality deep fryers are super simple to use, in most of the cases, they can be a hassle to buy. And not just because there are so many models to choose from these days, but simply because home cooks often neglect to pay attention to the qualities that matter, whether that’s the tank’s capacity or the fryer’s built-in safety features.

So, if you want to get a bang for your buck and invest in the most efficient model possible, here’s a list of all the features you need to look for in a deep fryer.

  • Type

As mentioned above, there are two types of deep fryers, those that are powered by electricity and those that are fueled by propane. While the first ones are recommended for indoor use, propane deep fryers can only be used outdoors. That said, you need to determine whether you want to cook your foods in the likes of your kitchen or take the deep frying party outside with your friends and family by your side. So, which one is it going to be?

  • Frying Capacity

Another thing you need to keep in mind when shopping for a deep fryer is the tank’s capacity. Each model can cook up to a specific volume of food, accommodating different needs. To avoid getting stuck with an unsuitable model, first, consider the type of foods you want to deep fry and then, how many people you want to serve.

For example, if you want to use it primarily for party snacks such as chicken wings or deep-fried Twinkies which always come in generous batches, then you should opt for a model with a large tank. On the flip side, if you occasionally want to treat your family to a serving of French fries, then you’d better consider investing in a small deep fryer.

  • Adjustable Temperature Setting

Even though it’s not a must-have feature (especially if you’re buying a small deep fryer), this element can make a huge difference in the food’s taste. That occurs because every food holds a different amount of water. As a result, each of them has a different temperature at which it starts frying.

That means that if the temperature is higher than it can handle, the food will lose all its moisture rather quickly and eventually get burnt. So, being able to adjust the temps allows you to cook your meals according to the recipe’s instructions and hit that sweet spot that is perfect for each ingredient.

  • Easy-to-Clean Design

It’s no secret that deep fryers can be a pain to clean. From leftover grease to burnt food residues, there are a lot of things left in those tanks that may take forever to remove. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get your hands on a model that is easy to clean. You just need to look for a fryer that features a non-stick interior and detachable (preferably dishwasher-safe) parts.

Also, make sure the basket -if there’s any- is made of stainless steel which is resistant to pitting corrosion. After all, you’ll be using the thing more times than you can count. You don’t want any of its metallic coating to make its way into your food, right? Lastly, keep an eye out for a model with drainage tubes that simplify the draining process and make it easy for you to dispose of the oil.

  • Safety Features

We know it, you know it, everyone knows it. Deep fryers may help you cook the tastiest batch of onion rings or corn dogs you’ve ever made, but they can be downright dangerous to use, especially when certain precautions are not met. That’s why you need to invest in a model that prioritizes your safety through the application of certain features.

That said, it’s best to invest in a fryer with a touch-cool body and handles which can prevent all sorts of accidents (ahem, burning), a rise-and-fall basket to add foods in the oil easily, an automatic shut-off setting that will turn the device down when the oil gets too hot, a lid that will keep the hot oil from spitting and burning your hands as well as the surrounding objects and a viewing window on top of the device to monitor the process without having to open the lid.

Lastly, even if it’s not a must-have feature, it’s best to buy a model with a detachable cord to avoid getting tangled to it and tipping it over as you pass by. That feature may spare you the first-degree burns more times than you can count.

  • High-Quality Materials

Another thing you need to consider before adding any deep fryer to your cart is the material it’s made of. Since this device is going to be exposed to an acidic environment and very high temps, it’s best to opt for a model that is either made of stainless steel inside and out or at least features parts that are made of the durable material.

 

 

 

Small deep fryer reviews summary

Let’s be honest: From those delicious, melt-in-your-mouth chicken nuggets to a crunchy batch of onion rings, deep fried food has been, is and will always be everyone’s guilty pleasure. But, what if we told you that you don’t have to drive all the way to Chick-Fil-A to get your weekly fix of deep fried goodness?

Home deep fryers are here to bring your most beloved foods to a mouth-watering golden crisp with just the flick of a switch. If you are ready to jump in on the action and fun, these top 7 deep fryers will satisfy your fast-food cravings the healthy (a.k.a. homemade) way.