Blotting with paper towels is a common method for removing excess oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Gently press another paper towel on top of the food to absorb the excess oil. This method is effective in removing surface oil, but it may not be as efficient in removing oil that has penetrated the food.
Another way to use paper towels for blotting is to create a makeshift draining rack. Simply crumple up several paper towels and place them on a plate. Then, place the fried food on top of the paper towels, allowing the excess oil to drain away. This method is particularly useful for foods that are delicate and may fall apart if pressed too firmly with a paper towel.
Using a Wire Rack
Using a wire rack is another effective method for draining excess oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the food, helping it to cool and drain more effectively. This method is particularly useful for foods that are breaded or have a crispy coating, as it helps to prevent the coating from becoming soggy.
For smaller items such as chicken wings or onion rings, you can also use a cooling rack set over a plate. This allows the excess oil to drip down onto the plate while the food cools and drains. Using a wire rack is a great way to ensure that your fried foods stay crispy and delicious, without becoming greasy.
Absorbing with Bread or Potatoes
Absorbing excess oil with bread or potatoes is a unique and effective method for removing oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it on a plate lined with slices of bread or potato slices. The bread or potatoes will absorb the excess oil from the food, leaving it less greasy and more enjoyable to eat.
Another way to use bread or potatoes for absorbing excess oil is to create a bed of bread or potato slices on a wire rack. Place the fried food on top of the bread or potatoes, allowing them to absorb the excess oil as the food cools and drains. This method is particularly useful for foods that are heavily coated in batter or breading, as it helps to prevent the coating from becoming too oily.
Draining on a Plate with a Lip
Draining fried foods on a plate with a lip is a simple yet effective method for removing excess oil. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it on a plate with a raised lip around the edge. Tilt the plate slightly to allow the excess oil to drain away from the food. This method is particularly useful for smaller items such as fried shrimp or calamari, as it allows the excess oil to pool at one end of the plate for easy removal.
Another way to use a plate with a lip for draining is to line the plate with paper towels before placing the fried food on top. The paper towels will absorb the excess oil while the lip of the plate helps to contain any runoff. This method is great for foods that are delicate and may fall apart if pressed too firmly with a paper towel.
Using a Salad Spinner
Using a salad spinner is an innovative and efficient method for removing excess oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it in the basket of a salad spinner. Give the spinner a few good spins to help remove the excess oil from the food. This method is particularly useful for foods that are small and can easily fit into the basket of a salad spinner.
Another way to use a salad spinner for draining is to line the basket with paper towels before placing the fried food inside. The paper towels will absorb the excess oil while the spinning action helps to remove even more oil from the food. This method is great for foods that are heavily coated in batter or breading, as it helps to keep the coating crispy and delicious.
Using Cornstarch or Baking Soda
Using cornstarch or baking soda is an unconventional yet effective method for removing excess oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, sprinkle it with cornstarch or baking soda. Gently toss the food to coat it evenly, then let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the excess oil. This method is particularly useful for foods that are heavily coated in batter or breading, as it helps to keep the coating crispy and less greasy.
Another way to use cornstarch or baking soda for absorbing excess oil is to create a mixture of either ingredient with water and toss the fried food in it. The cornstarch or baking soda will help to absorb the excess oil while also adding a light, crispy texture to the food. This method is great for foods that are particularly oily, as it helps to make them more enjoyable to eat.
Using a Deep-Fryer Basket
Using a deep-fryer basket is a convenient and efficient method for draining excess oil from fried foods. After removing the food from the hot oil, place it in a deep-fryer basket set over a bowl or plate. The basket allows any excess oil to drain away from the food, leaving it less greasy and more enjoyable to eat. This method is particularly useful for larger items such as chicken tenders or fish fillets, as it allows them to drain without becoming soggy.
Another way to use a deep-fryer basket for draining is to line it with paper towels before placing the fried food inside. The paper towels will absorb any excess oil while the basket helps to keep the food elevated and away from any runoff. This method is great for foods that are delicate and may fall apart if pressed too firmly with a paper towel.
In conclusion, there are many different methods for draining excess oil from fried foods, each with its own unique benefits and advantages. Whether you prefer using paper towels, wire racks, bread or potatoes, plates with lips, salad spinners, cornstarch or baking soda, or deep-fryer baskets, there is sure to be a method that works best for your favorite fried dishes. By using these methods, you can enjoy delicious and crispy fried foods without feeling weighed down by excessive grease. So next time you’re frying up some tasty treats, be sure to try out one of these draining methods and see how much of a difference it can make in your final dish!
