Deep-frying means cooking food in a big pan of hot fat, such as vegetable oil or lard. This makes the outside brown and crispy and keeps the inside moist. Foods that are usually deep-fried include onion rings, egg rolls, doughnuts, fried chicken, and fish and chips (French fries). Because food absorbs fat when it is fried, this is not a healthy way to cook. back to top

Deep-frying tips

• Many foods that are deep-fried can be cooked in more healthful ways. For instance, you can grill or broil chicken and bake French fries or onion rings. And fresh spring rolls or steamed dumplings are a tasty alternative to fried wontons and egg rolls.
• Stir-frying and sautéing are more healthful ways to fry. Food prepared in this way is cooked quickly or browned in a little hot fat. Use just enough oil or butter to keep the food from sticking to the wok or frying pan.
• If your family makes deep-fried foods, get a deep-fry thermometer from a kitchen store so you can make sure the fat is 365 degrees. If the fat isn't hot enough, the food will soak up even more fat than usual. back to top