The simplest way to remove excess oil from fried food is to blot it with slices of bread or paper towels immediately after frying.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of effective methods:
Blotting Methods
- Bread: Bread is highly absorbent and a readily available option. Gently press slices of bread against the fried food to soak up the excess oil. Replace the bread slices as they become saturated.
- Paper Towels: Line a plate or tray with paper towels and place the fried food on top. The paper towels will absorb the excess oil. Replace the paper towels as needed.
Other Techniques
- Wire Rack: Place the fried food on a wire rack after removing it from the fryer or pan. This allows excess oil to drip off. You can place paper towels underneath the rack to catch the dripping oil.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to lift the food from the oil. Briefly hold the food above the hot oil to allow some of the excess to drip back into the fryer.
- Temperature Matters: Frying at the correct temperature is crucial. If the oil isn't hot enough, the food will absorb more oil. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the optimal frying temperature for your specific food.
Choosing the Right Frying Oil
While not directly related to removing oil, choosing the right frying oil can minimize absorption in the first place. Oils with higher smoke points (like refined peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil) are generally better for frying.
Example: Fried Chicken
When frying chicken, after removing it from the hot oil, place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels. You can also gently blot the chicken with a clean paper towel to remove additional surface oil.
By using these techniques, you can reduce the amount of oil in your fried foods, making them slightly healthier and more enjoyable.
