Comparing Commercial Open Fryers and Pressure Fryers: A Deep Dive into Equipment and Food Product Differences
Quick Summary ⮕ Let's talk about the differences between open fryer and pressure fryers! As an added bonus, we tell you the top fried chicken restaurants in NYC & NJ.
Christian Hernandez
NJ's Restaurant Equipment Expert
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When it comes to professional deep frying in commercial kitchens, two popular options are commercial open fryers and pressure fryers. These versatile pieces of equipment offer unique advantages and cater to different cooking needs. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between commercial open fryers and pressure fryers, including their features, benefits, and the types of food products they are best suited for. Additionally, we’ll provide statistics to shed light on their usage and popularity in the foodservice industry.
Commercial Open Fryers: Commercial open fryers are the traditional choice for deep frying in restaurants and food establishments. They consist of a large open vat filled with hot oil, where food is immersed for frying. Key characteristics and benefits include:
- Fast Cooking Time: Open fryers heat up quickly and provide high heat output, resulting in faster cooking times.
- Versatility: They can accommodate a wide range of food items, from french fries and chicken tenders to seafood and vegetables.
- Capacity: Open fryers come in various sizes, offering flexibility to match the volume and demand of the establishment.
- Ease of Use: These fryers are relatively straightforward to operate and require minimal training.
Statistics:
According to industry reports, open fryers account for approximately 75% of commercial fryer sales in the foodservice industry.
On average, restaurants and fast-food establishments in the United States use open fryers for 60% of their frying needs.
Pressure Fryers: Pressure fryers are designed to provide a unique cooking method that combines deep frying with pressure cooking. They are sealed units that utilize pressure to enhance cooking efficiency and seal in flavors. Key characteristics and benefits include:
- Moisture Retention: The sealed environment of pressure fryers helps to retain moisture in the food, resulting in juicy and tender fried dishes.
- Faster Cooking: The pressure cooking aspect significantly reduces cooking time while still achieving a crispy exterior.
- Safety Features: Pressure fryers are equipped with safety interlocks and pressure release mechanisms to ensure operator safety.
- Flavor Infusion: The pressurized environment allows flavors and seasonings to penetrate the food more deeply.
Statistics:
Pressure fryers are commonly found in fast-food chains and restaurants that specialize in fried chicken, accounting for approximately 30% of commercial fryer sales.
The pressure frying technique is widely recognized for its ability to produce succulent and flavorful fried chicken, making it a popular choice in the industry.
Food Products and Recommendations: While both types of fryers can handle a wide range of food products, certain items are particularly well-suited for each:
- Open Fryers: Open fryers excel at cooking foods that require quick and efficient frying, such as french fries, onion rings, tempura, and battered seafood.
- Pressure Fryers: Pressure fryers are ideal for achieving exceptionally moist and flavorful fried chicken, as well as other breaded and seasoned poultry items.
Commercial open fryers and pressure fryers offer distinct advantages and cater to different cooking needs in the foodservice industry. Open fryers are versatile workhorses, perfect for a wide range of fried foods, while pressure fryers excel at producing flavorful and tender fried chicken. Understanding the differences between these two fryer types, their features, and the types of food products they are best suited for will help restaurant owners and operators make informed equipment choices to meet their culinary requirements.
Best Fried Chicken in NYC & NJ:
- The Dirty Bird To-Go (East Village): The Dirty Bird To-Go has garnered a loyal following for its mouthwatering fried chicken. Their chicken is made to order, using all-natural, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free poultry. They offer a variety of flavors and styles, including classic buttermilk fried chicken, honey-dipped chicken, and spicy jalapeno-infused chicken. Their chicken is known for its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. The Dirty Bird To-Go also offers a selection of delicious sides and dipping sauces to complement their fried chicken.
- Hill Country Chicken (Flatiron): Hill Country Chicken brings the flavors of Texas to New York City with its delicious fried chicken offerings. Their chicken is brined for 24 hours, then coated with a signature blend of spices and buttermilk before being fried to perfection. The result is a crispy and flavorful exterior with moist and tender meat. Hill Country Chicken offers various cuts and styles of fried chicken, including classic Southern-style, spicy, and chicken tenders. Their menu also features tasty sides like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and coleslaw.
- The Chicken or the Egg (Beach Haven): Located in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island, The Chicken or the Egg, affectionately known as “Chegg,” is a beloved local institution. This 24/7 diner-style eatery is famous for its extensive menu and, of course, its delicious fried chicken. Their chicken is crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. Whether you prefer classic fried chicken, spicy buffalo wings, or creative twists like their “Cheggwich” (a sandwich with fried chicken, cheese, and bacon), The Chicken or the Egg has you covered. With a laid-back atmosphere and a range of tasty sides and sauces, this spot is a must-visit for fried chicken lovers.
- Krispy Krunchy Chicken (Various Locations): Krispy Krunchy Chicken is a Louisiana-based chain that has gained popularity across the United States, including several locations in New Jersey. Their fried chicken is known for its signature blend of spices, offering a flavorful and crispy experience. The chain focuses on fresh ingredients and a unique cooking process that results in consistently delicious chicken. In addition to their fried chicken, Krispy Krunchy Chicken also serves other Southern-inspired dishes like fried fish, jambalaya, and biscuits. With multiple locations throughout New Jersey, it’s easy to find a nearby spot to enjoy their tasty fried chicken.
