The Pitco Passport: European Fried Food Favorites

Cherished for its crispy textures and comforting flavors, European fried food also has plenty of cultural significance. In many cases, just mentioning certain dishes conjures images of famous European capitals from London to Lisbon. Many European fried food staples have historic roots and are today favorites all across the world. So grab your Pitco Passport, and let’s explore some of the best in European fried food.

The Best of European Fried Foods

Germany: Schnitzel

Schnitzel, a beloved German classic, typically consists of a tenderized piece of meat, usually veal or pork, coated in breadcrumbs. Fried to perfection, these golden delights are staples in Germanic cuisines. Wiener schnitzel is from the city of Wien, or Vienna. Topped with mushroom sauce it’s jaeger schnitzel, or “hunter’s schnitzel.” Hamburger schnitzel, a regional specialty from Hamburg, is often served with a fried egg on top. As the dish migrated to the United States, it evolved, particularly in the Midwest, where many German immigrants settled. A quick spin through Indiana or Iowa, for example, will surely reveal the famous tenderloin sandwich.

United Kingdom: Fish and Chips

Fish and chips, the iconic British dish, have a rich history that spans centuries. It is also rooted in a surprising blend of cultural influences and culinary innovations. The story begins in the Persian Empire of the 6th century. Persian kings enjoyed sikbaj, a sweet and sour beef stew preserved with vinegar. This dish spread beyond the empire, reaching coastal regions where fish replaced beef. In the 10th century, a Jewish merchant named Isaac Yehuda introduced a method of preserving fish with vinegar. This technique spread across the oceans and influenced dishes like ceviche in South America and escabeche in Spain and Portugal. These dishes were brought to cities like London by Sephardic Jews, who also added a new technique — frying. Fast forward, and you have the ubiquitous fish and chips served in a greasy newspaper.

Spain: Churros

Churros, the beloved Spanish fried dessert delicacy, have a rich history and cultural significance. Their origins can be traced back to Spanish shepherds who needed easy-to-make food while tending their flocks in the mountains. Over time, this humble snack evolved into a popular street food and dessert item across Spain and to the New World. Traditional frying techniques play a crucial role in achieving the signature crisp texture and golden-brown color that make churros irresistible. The dough is carefully piped into hot oil, forming long, ridged strips that are then fried until they reach the perfect level of crispiness.

Portugal: Pastéis de Bacalhau

One beloved Portuguese fried food is pastéis de bacalhau. Enjoyed as appetizers or snacks, their history is intertwined with Portugal’s rich maritime heritage and culinary traditions. Pastéis de bacalhau, the plural form of pastel, are made from a flavorful mixture of salted codfish, potatoes, onions, parsley, and eggs. This combination of ingredients reflects the resourcefulness of Portuguese cooks, who have long relied on preserved fish as a dietary staple. Bacalhau, preserved through salting, became an essential food source for long sea voyages and eventually found its way into numerous traditional Portuguese dishes. Pastéis de Bacalhau represents a delicious evolution of this culinary tradition.

Italy: Perfecting Arancini

Arancini, the delectable fried rice balls, are a staple of Italian cuisine and are fan favorites for many chefs. Originating in Sicily, arancini comes in various forms and fillings. Various versions include ragu (meat sauce), mozzarella, or even peas, encased in a ball of breaded and fried rice. Modern interpretations have expanded the range of fillings, including vegetarian options and creative flavor combinations. The key to perfecting arancini is achieving the ideal balance between a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. This delicate balance requires precise temperature control during the frying process. Pitco fryers have an impact on maintaining consistent temperatures, which is crucial to achieving the signature crispy coating while ensuring the interior remains moist and flavorful.

The Art of Perfect Frying with Pitco

Pitco fryers impact the art of perfect frying no matter what is food’s origin is, offering innovative solutions for commercial kitchens worldwide. Efficient oil management, precise temperature control, and a versatile product range make Pitco a top consideration no matter which European fried food you’re creating.

To help foodservice operators find the perfect fryer for their specific needs, Pitco developed an innovative fryer selector tool. This tool simplifies the selection process by considering factors such as food type, volume, and kitchen space. It helps operators choose the best Pitco fryer to recreate their favorite international fried dishes with precision and efficiency.