Ask the Expert: deep-fryer (2024)

What De-Longhi F18311 deep-fryer

Who Kim Kenig, head chef, Flying Fish.

First impressions Compact and a good size for domestic use. However, because it is white it will be hard to keep clean.

Test I made hand-cut chips with the machine the way we do for the restaurant - blanched first on 130C and then fried on 180C. The machine has a slanted oil bowl that rotates as the food cooks. To me this is a bit gimmicky, as it doesn't take many chips for the basket to become full and therefore they are only half-submerged while they cook. It would work better for shoestring fries or something lightweight.

The manufacturer recommends you cook with the lid down. Why would you deep-fry with a lid at all? It creates condensation, which then drips back into the oil and also partially steams the food, which defeats the point of deep-frying. It has a charcoal filter inside the lid, which is effective for absorbing the oil odour at home.

I opened the lid and continued with the test and results were pretty good in small batches. Chips were crispy and evenly coloured and comparable to our commercially made ones. It has a great drainage system where you unplug a small flexible tube, which releases the oil for disposal and makes for easy cleaning.

Verdict The results from battered fish and chips, tempura and small items were all excellent when the lid was open. For domestic use the machine is well priced and functional and cooking with the lid down would help to avoid that oily odour that comes from deep-frying. The manual was easy to follow and the machine was easy to operate. For the price it is a quality appliance.

Tip Open the lid and fry in small batches. If making chips, fry in cottonseed oil for the best results.