With all of the emphasis on healthy eating and healthy lifestyles, deep frying has gotten a bad rap lately. If done correctly, it is typically no more fattening than other cooking methods, but the difference in flavor isn’t even close. Deep fried foods are moist, crispy, and flavorful. And the best part is that just about anything that you can eat can be deep fried.
We’re not talking about deep fried Oreos or Twinkies. We’re talking about quality foods prepared with care in a style that can trace its roots back to Ancient Egypt.
Deep Frying and Cooking in Dallas
If performed properly, deep-frying does not make food excessively greasy, because the moisture in the food repels the oil. The hot oil heats the water in the food, steaming it from the inside out. The cooking oil is prevented from penetrating the surface of the food because of the outward flow of steam from the food. As long as the oil is hot enough and the food is not left in the oil for too long, the oil only penetrates the outer surface, preventing the food from becoming overly fatty. However, if the food is cooked for too long, much of the water will cook out and the oil will penetrate the food. The correct frying temperature depends on the thickness and type of food, but in most cases it lies between 345–375° F.
Many foods are given a coating of bread crumbs or batter before they are fried. This enhances the browning and crispiness of the exterior while giving more insulation for the steaming of the food inside.
Learn the Art of Deep Frying
Some of the most popular deep fried foods are French fries, chicken, fish, tempura vegetables, donuts; and if you’re a Dallas chef, chicken-fried steak.
At some culinary schools you can learn the art of deep frying alongside other classical French and modern cooking styles. If you want to find out more look online for information about preparing for professional opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industry.
If school is not your thing, look for a local cooking club. There are many great sites such as MeetUp where you can connect with other likeminded cooks in your area. Sometimes the best way to learn is by practicing with friends and family. Don’t waste any time, start deep frying today!
This article is presented by Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts Dallas. Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts Dallas offers Le Cordon Bleu culinary education classes and culinary training programs in Dallas, Texas. To learn more about the class offerings, please visit Chefs.edu/Dallas for more information.
The jobs mentioned are examples of certain potential jobs, not a representation that these outcomes are more probable than others. Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts Dallas does not guarantee employment or salary.