An electric deep fryer will make your kitchen more versatile, allowing you to add French fries, fried chicken and more to your menu. But finding the best fryer for your restaurant kitchen can be challenging when you have so many options.
We’re going to share some important things to consider when choosing your fryer. But first, let’s explore some of the benefits of an electric deep fryer.
The Benefits of Electric Deep Fryers
Fryers can be powered by electricity or gas. While they both have advantages, many restaurants prefer electric models.
Here’s why:
- Electric fryers have heating elements that sit inside the tank and heat the oil directly.
- Generally, electric models are more energy efficient when heating up.
- These fryers usually have a quicker recovery period in between batches.
- Their plug-and-play design makes them mobile and easy to install.
- Electric fryers are typically best for small kitchens, food trucks, and pop-ups.
- Clean-up tends to be quicker and easier.
One disadvantage of electric models is that they have lower maximum oil temperatures compared to their gas counterparts.
How to Choose the Best Deep Fryer for Your Restaurant
To find the best electric deep fryers for your restaurant, it’s important to know what to look for when comparing models. Here are some important things to consider.
Type of Deep Fryer Cooker
One of the first things to consider when choosing a deep fryer is its type. If you’re looking for electric models, your options are more limited, but there are still a few types to choose from:
Ribbon
Ribbon-style fryers have ribbon-shaped elements that run along the bottom of the unit. They’re quick to heat up and energy efficient. They’re also the standard option for electric models.
While efficient and quick to heat up, ribbon fryers are more difficult to clean underneath and behind the heating element. Because the heating element is submerged in the oil and can come in contact with the food, cleaning can sometimes be a chore. Newer models are designed to lift the heating elements up for easy care.
Flat Bottom
Flat-bottom-style electric fryers are also available. These fryers are ideal for wet batters that are dough-based, like funnel cakes and donuts.
With this type of deep fryer cooker, food floats freely to allow for even cooking. Because the heating elements do not obstruct the bottom of the unit, clean-up is quicker and easier.
These fryers do take a little longer to heat up, but they also allow you to add more popular fried foods to your menu. That said, flat-bottom fryers are not suited for high-sediment or high-volume frying.
Floor vs. Countertop Model
Along with the type of fryer, you also have to consider whether you want a countertop or floor model. Each has its benefits, but your kitchen layout and size may wind up making this decision for you.
Countertop Fryers
Countertop fryers are portable and save on space, making them a great option for small kitchens. Their small size also makes them user-friendly and easy to maintain.
If you run a food truck, concession stand, or a smaller restaurant, a countertop model will likely be your first choice.
You can also find ventless models that have special filtration systems for added convenience and safety.
The only major issue with a countertop model is that it may not be able to handle a high-volume operation.
Floor Fryers
Floor fryers have larger footprints, but they can stand up to high-volume demand and allow you to fry larger quantities of food at once.
These models have a quick recovery time in between batches compared to countertop models.
If you sell a lot of fried food, a floor fryer may be the better option for you. Just keep in mind that you will need hood ventilation for this type of fryer.
Durability
Once you’ve determined what type of fryer you need, you’ll need to consider durability. Commercial fryers are designed to stand up to heavy use, but for restaurants with very high-volume demand, higher durability may be required.
When it comes to durability, you have three options:
- Light duty: These models are designed for light commercial use, where frying is more of a niche than a mainstay. They are not built for constant use.
- Medium duty: These models can withstand more frequent use without compromising on performance.
- Heavy duty: These models are designed for continuous use in restaurants that sell high volumes of fried food.
When it comes to durability, your selection will depend primarily on how often you use the unit.
Advanced Options
Ease of use is another important thing to consider when choosing a fryer. Models with advanced control options may make it easier for staff to use the equipment and streamline your kitchen.
Some models offer:
- Oil filtration, allows you to maintain oil quality for a longer period of time. Cleaner oil will also ensure your food always tastes great.
- Smart controls. Some fryers have smart controls that can even send notifications when the food is ready, or the unit is preheated.
Electric models are naturally more energy efficient, but some also have additional features that further improve efficiency.
Best Deep Fryer 2022 - Winco EFS-16
We have a wide selection of electric deep fryers, but the Winco EFS-16 is one of our most popular models. If you’re looking for the best electric deep fryer, this unit may be a great option.
The Winco EFS-16 is a compact countertop electric fryer made of stainless steel. The unit is ideal for small kitchens, but it’s also a great option for restaurants where frying is more of a niche than anything else.
The EFS-16 has:
- One fry basket
- 16-ounce oil tank
- Quick heat-up
- Removable power head
Despite its small size, this unit has a large capacity, making it suitable for high-volume operations.
The single fry basket has an ergonomic handle. Winco also includes fry well covers for added safety and to prevent contamination in between frying sessions.
With a light weight of just 19 pounds, this small fryer is easily portable and quick to install virtually anywhere. The simple knob and button controls also make it easy for staff to use the fryer with minimal training.
If you’re in the market for an electric fryer, the Winco EFS-16 is a great option to consider. Use this guide to help you find the right model for your operation and kitchen layout.