Choosing the Right Method for Preparing Fries
Choosing the Right Method for Preparing Fries
The way fries are prepared in a professional kitchen depends largely on the equipment available. However, several other factors play a crucial role in determining the best approach, including the desired texture, consistency, order volume, and time efficiency. Below is a breakdown of key considerations to help you select the most suitable preparation method for your restaurant.
- 1. Volume of Orders
• Deep frying is best for high-volume, fast-paced kitchens (e.g., fast food or casual dining).
• Air frying is suitable for smaller volumes or when you have a limited number of orders for fries.
• Oven baking and combi-steaming can handle medium to high volumes, but they may be slower than deep frying.
- 2. Desired Texture
• Deep frying is the gold standard for crispy, golden fries with the most preferred texture.
• Combi-steamers and oven baking may give softer fries, though you can achieve crispiness by finishing them at higher heat.
• Air fryers offer a middle ground: some crispiness, but not as perfect as deep-fried.
- 3. Health Considerations
• Oven baking and air frying are the healthiest options with minimal oil usage.
• Combi-steaming is a good compromise between health and texture but may sacrifice some crispiness.
• Deep frying is the least healthy due to the high oil content.
- 4. Labor and Equipment Efficiency
• Deep frying and air frying are more labor-intensive but also faster.
• Oven baking and combi-steaming require less active labor, but cooking times can be longer.
• Combi-steamers are multifunctional, allowing you to prepare multiple menu items beyond fries.
- 5. Space and Equipment Costs
• Air fryers are compact and affordable.
• Oven baking requires an oven, which most kitchens already have.
• Combi-steamers are a larger investment and take up more space but offer versatility.
• Deep fryers require space and regular oil maintenance.
The right method for your restaurant will depend on balancing these factors to best fit your kitchen’s needs, menu, and customer preferences. Many restaurants use a combination of methods depending on the time of day, customer demand, and available kitchen resources. At the House of Fries we love to help you finding the best method and fries for you.
With over 50 years of experience in the development and production of fries, we are the experts in the preparation of potatoes. This is reflected in our wide range of products, which can be found in almost every restaurant and kitchen. We offer many possibilities. A small selection per way of preparation.
