To deep-fry fat back, slice it into strips and cook until golden brown and crispy.
Here's a detailed guide on how to deep-fry fat back:
Ingredients:
- Fat back
- Cooking oil (e.g., vegetable oil, peanut oil, canola oil)
- Salt (optional)
- Pepper (optional)
Equipment:
- Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels
- Thermometer (optional, but recommended for consistent results)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Fat Back: Cut the fat back into strips, approximately 1 inch wide. This ensures even cooking and a good crispy texture.
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Heat the Oil: Pour enough cooking oil into your deep fryer or pot to fully submerge the fat back. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer ensures the oil is at the correct temperature, crucial for proper frying.
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Fry the Fat Back: Carefully add the fat back strips to the hot oil in batches of 6-8 pieces to avoid overcrowding the fryer/pot, which can lower the oil temperature.
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Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the fat back for approximately 5 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside. Turn the strips occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried fat back from the oil. Place the strips on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Season (Optional): While the fat back is still hot, you can season it with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the fried fat back to cool slightly before serving. It will crisp up even more as it cools.
Storage:
Fried fat back can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the fryer: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, less crispy fat back.
- Maintain the oil temperature: Monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed to keep it consistent.
- Use a high-smoke-point oil: This prevents the oil from smoking and imparting an unpleasant flavor to the fat back.
- Dry the fat back before frying: Patting the fat back dry with paper towels before frying helps to achieve a crispier result.