Pitco Fry Guy Focus: Introducing Dheeraj Kumar

While everyone has their favorite use for a fryer, it’s those chefs who use one to create unique dishes that cause our mouths to water. Chef Dheeraj Kumar is the perfect example of that. The Corporate Chef at Middleby Celfrost in India, his career is marked by innovation and a passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences. We sat down with Chef Dheeraj, who’s this month’s Pitco Fry Guy, to learn more about how restaurants can use Pitco fryers to bring out Indian flavors and textures.

Indian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and diverse textures. How do Pitco fryers help you achieve these characteristics when preparing Indian street food?

Pitco fryers play a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in Indian fried street food. Their precise temperature control allows me to cook various ingredients at their optimal point. For example, I can use the fryer to create crispy yet fluffy samosas without overcooking the filling. Additionally, the high-efficiency filtration system ensures consistent oil quality, preventing flavor transfer and maintaining the vibrant colors of our dishes.

What are some popular Indian street food items that can be easily prepared using a Pitco fryer?

The possibilities are endless! Here are a few crowd-pleasers:

• • Samosas: As mentioned earlier, Pitco fryers are perfect for achieving that golden-brown, flaky samosa exterior.
  • Pakoras: These bite-sized fritters, made with vegetables or meat dipped in a chickpea batter, come out perfectly crisp and flavorful when fried.
  • Fried Chicken: Pitco fryers deliver consistent heat and efficient oil filtration, ensuring perfectly golden and flavorful fried chicken every time.
  • Kachori is a crispy Indian hand pie filled with savory lentils. And Mathari is made of gram flour. A Pitco fryer ensures perfect kachoris by delivering fast, even heat for a golden, flaky crust without burning.

As a chef who prioritizes both efficiency and food quality, what are your thoughts on Pitco’s filtration systems?

I’m a big fan of Pitco’s filtration systems! Efficient oil filtration is crucial for maintaining oil quality and extending its lifespan. Pitco’s systems are user-friendly and minimize downtime, allowing chefs to focus on creating delicious food. This not only saves on oil costs but also ensures consistent flavor and texture in fried dishes. Oil is one of the costliest ingredients in the frying business. Pitco’s filtration system and high-efficiency burners ensure that oil stays fresh for a long time.

Speaking of oil, why do you think operators think oil filtration is a waste? What’s the disconnect between throwing away oil constantly and the option to filter and reuse?

I often hear concerns from operators who view oil filtration as a time-consuming hassle. They might question if it’s worth the effort. However, in my experience, neglecting filtration leads to more problems down the line. Discarded oil is a wasted cost; worse, it can negatively impact food quality. Regular filtration with a good system like Pitco’s is an investment that pays off in the long run. It saves money, reduces waste, and ensures consistently delicious fried food!

In your experience, how has fryer technology evolved to meet the demands of modern kitchens?

Fryer technology has come a long way! Today’s fryers prioritize efficiency and control, making them ideal for fast-paced kitchens. Features like digital controls, rapid heat recovery, and automatic filtration systems ensure consistent results and minimize downtime. Additionally, innovations in energy efficiency help reduce operating costs, making them a win-win for chefs and businesses. Temperature accuracy is the key in frying. I am amazed by Pitco’s accuracy and shorter recovery time. It helps me in getting perfectly fried food consistency.

What are the most common questions you get about commercial fryers?

I often hear, “What features are essential for a high-performance fryer?” and “Can we fry Indian snacks in Pitco’s fryers?” The answer to the second question is absolutely yes!

What are common frying mistakes that you see?

One of the most common mistakes I see is overcrowding the fryer basket. This disrupts oil temperature, leading to unevenly cooked food – some soggy, some burnt. Another big one is neglecting to filter the oil regularly. Oil breaks down over time, affecting flavor and texture. Finally, not using the right oil for the job can be a problem. Different oils have different smoke points, so choosing the right one ensures safe and delicious results. By following these simple tips, chefs can elevate their fried food game!

What is the best piece of advice you would give someone who wants to add fried food to a menu?

For anyone looking to add fried food to their menu, my top advice is to invest in a high-quality fryer that prioritizes both efficiency and oil management. This means features like rapid heat recovery and digital controls for consistent cooking. But here’s the secret weapon: a good oil filtration system. I recommend Pitco’s filtration technology. It takes the hassle out of keeping your oil clean, extending its life, and saving you money. This allows you to focus on creating delicious and perfectly fried food, something your customers will love! I also love Pitco for its added features like shake THE BASKET alarm, profile cooking, multiple programs, etc. I always (advocate) for Pitco’s high-efficiency fryers.

What are the most important accessories to have for fryers?

In my experience, there are a few key accessories that make a big difference when working with fryers. Here at the top of my list:

• • High-quality fryer baskets to ensure even cooking and prevent food from falling apart.
  • Good metal tongs because they allow for safe and precise handling of hot food.
  • A good and safe cleaning chemical will help keep the fryer new for a long time without harming the components.
  • Last, but certainly not least, a proper oil filtration system like those offered by Pitco!

What are your three best pieces of advice for a restaurant trying to make more money with fried food?

1. 1. Invest in High-Quality Equipment: Get a reliable fryer like those from Pitco. It will ensure consistent cooking, reduce downtime, and extend the life of your oil, saving you money in the long run.
   2. Master the Art of Frying: Train your staff on proper frying techniques, including temperature control and oil management. This will minimize waste and lead to perfectly cooked, delicious fried food that keeps customers coming back. Pitco high-efficiency fryers do all of it automatically.
   3. Increase Your Menu: Don’t just settle for basic fries. Explore creative new menu items that showcase the versatility of your fryer. This could include anything from unique appetizers to unexpected flavor combinations. By offering exciting fried options, you can increase your profit margins and attract new customers.

Ready to try some Pitco Fry Guy tips but aren’t sure which commercial fryer is best for your foodservice business? Use our product selector tool to find out: