Around the World with Pitco Fryers: Expert Tips from Global Kitchens

Frying isn’t just a cooking technique. It’s an art form shaped by regional flavors, culinary traditions, and the expertise of chefs who take it to the next level. From bustling street stalls in Southeast Asia to the classic kitchens of Europe, frying connects cultures. To unlock the secrets behind some of the world’s best frying practices, we turned to a group of seasoned experts: the Pitco Fry Guys. These chefs have represented global kitchens that use Pitco fryers. So, let’s listen to their insider tips, techniques, and inspirations that make fried foods unforgettable.
What Is the Most Common Question You Get About Fryers?
Chef Antonio Leon, Middleby Mexico
Customers in Latin America and the Caribbean often ask which fryer will provide the most cost savings and suit their specific operations.
Chef Gavin Yu, Middleby China
The top questions are about temperature stability, oil longevity, and fryer reliability.
Chef Hernan Vasquez, Middleby Innovation Kitchens, Madrid
Operators frequently ask how to improve efficiency and oil quality and extend oil life through filtration processes.
Let’s Talk Oil. Why Do You Think Operators Think Oil Filtration Is a Waste?
Chef Antonio
Many operators are unaware of the benefits. They’re used to discarding oil, contributing to pollution, and don’t see how filtration improves food quality and saves money.
Chef Gavin
Operators often see filtration as an extra cost because of filter paper and powder. They overlook the long-term savings.
Chef Hernan
Operators hesitate to spend on filtration systems without realizing how high oil costs make filtration a critical investment.
And What Are Some Common Frying Mistakes That You See?
Chef Antonio
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- Frying at the wrong temperature
- Not shaking food at the right time
- Ignoring frying time
- Not filtering or changing oil promptly
- Using the same fryer for multiple food types (fish, chicken, etc.)
Chef Gavin
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- Starting to fry before the oil reaches the correct temperature
- Using incorrect settings
- Frying with oil that doesn’t meet food safety requirements
Chef Hernan
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- Not changing the oil often enough
- Overloading fry baskets
- Overbreading ingredients
- Using manual fryer programs improperly
How Would You Recommend Fixing Those Mistakes?
Chef Antonio
Through proper training. Operators need expert guidance to understand best practices for frying.
Chef Gavin
Ensure the oil reaches the proper temperature before frying, set accurate parameters, and use the fryer’s filtration function to maintain oil quality.
Chef Hernan
Better staff training is key to solving these mistakes and improving frying efficiency.
Can You Share the Best Advice You’d Give Someone Adding Fried Food to a Menu?
Chef Antonio
Focus on quality. Choose the right product, oil, and frying process, and ensure your fryer fits your needs. Create a specific frying station for maximum efficiency.
Chef Gavin
Maintain a consistent oil temperature and avoid frying large amounts of heavily coated foods at once.
Chef Hernan
Invest in professional fryers, train culinary staff, and ensure everyone feels passion for cooking.
What Are Your Three Best Pieces of Advice for a Restaurant Trying to Make More Money with Fried Food?
Chef Antonio
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- Invest in a high-efficiency fryer with accessories like automatic filtration and timers.
- Use quality products that maintain the cold chain and consistent temperatures.
- Choose the right oil for your menu—corn, palm, sunflower, or hydrogenated.
Chef Gavin
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- Develop standardized frying processes.
- Use oil filtration regularly to reduce waste and maintain quality.
- Clean and maintain fryers regularly to extend their lifespan and improve efficiency.
Chef Hernan
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- Invest in professional fryers.
- Train culinary staff to operate efficiently.
- Bring passion to cooking and focus on food quality.
Is your foodservice business ready to find the best fryer to increase profits? The Pitco selector tool can help:
Topics
- Foods & Trends (85)
- Fryers (77)
- Oil (50)
- Fried Food (45)
- Filtration (28)
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