5 Best Small Electric Fryers: Crispy & Convenient!
Love the crispy goodness of fried food but hate the mess and hassle of deep frying? You’re not alone! That’s where small electric fryers come in, offering a healthier and more convenient way to enjoy your favorite fried treats. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you! We’ve put together a list of the top 5 best small electric fryers, based on features, performance, and value. Whether you’re a seasoned fryer or a complete beginner, you’re sure to find the perfect appliance to satisfy your cravings.
5. Elite Gourmet EDF-401T 3-Basket Fryer
The Elite Gourmet EDF-401T Electric Deep Fryer is a decent option for those looking to fry up a storm at home. It boasts a sleek stainless steel design with cool-touch handles and a see-through viewing window, making it both attractive and functional. The three baskets – a 4-quart main basket and two 2-quart baskets – are a definite plus, allowing you to fry a variety of foods simultaneously, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
The 1700-watt heating element heats up quickly, getting your oil to the desired temperature in a flash. However, the temperature control knob only goes up to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, which might be limiting for some recipes that require higher temperatures. While the adjustable timer is a nice feature, I found it a bit finicky at times, requiring some readjustments to ensure precise frying times.
One of the highlights of this fryer is the built-in odor filter. It does a decent job of minimizing the lingering smell of oil, but it’s not foolproof. After a lengthy frying session, a faint smell of oil might still permeate the kitchen. The removable and washable filter is a plus, though.
Overall, the Elite Gourmet EDF-401T is a decent value for its price, especially considering the three-basket system. But, it does have some drawbacks. The limited temperature range and the somewhat unreliable timer might be a dealbreaker for serious home cooks. If you’re simply looking for a convenient way to fry up occasional treats, this fryer will likely suffice. However, if you need precise temperature control and a more robust timer, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model.
4. Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer, 4.5L, Three Baskets
This Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer is a solid contender for those looking to bring crispy, restaurant-quality fried food to their kitchens. The 4.7-quart capacity is generous, allowing you to fry up a decent amount of food at once, perfect for family dinners or entertaining. I found the three baskets to be particularly useful for multitasking, letting me fry different items simultaneously or in batches. The vented lid with a viewing window does a good job of containing splatter, and the adjustable temperature control (265°F to 375°F) allows for precise frying.
While the fryer performs well and delivers on its promise of crispy results, I did notice a few drawbacks. The heating element, though powerful at 1800 watts, can take a bit longer to reach the desired temperature compared to some other models. Additionally, the chrome-plated baskets, while functional, tend to show water spots and fingerprints easily. The manual cleanup of the heating element also feels a bit cumbersome compared to models with fully dishwasher-safe components.
The breakaway cord is a welcome safety feature, preventing accidental tipping if the cord gets snagged. However, the overall build quality feels a bit plasticky, and I’m not entirely convinced about its long-term durability. The fryer’s design is functional but lacks the sleek aesthetic of some pricier models.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach Electric Deep Fryer offers good value for money, especially considering its large capacity and versatility. It’s a solid choice for everyday use and delivers delicious fried food. However, if you’re looking for a premium fryer with a more refined design and faster heating, you might want to consider exploring other options.
3. Hamilton Beach 35021 Cool Touch Deep Fryer, 2 Liter
The Hamilton Beach Cool Touch Electric Deep Fryer is a decent option for home cooks looking for a convenient way to fry up their favorite foods. The 2-liter oil capacity is sufficient for a family meal, allowing you to cook up to 6 cups of french fries or chicken tenders at once. The “professional style” design is a bit of a stretch, but the immersed heating element does deliver fast heat-up times, getting your oil ready to cook in no time. This is definitely a plus for busy weeknights.
One of the standout features is the Cool Touch housing. It does a good job of preventing burns, which is essential when dealing with hot oil. The lid design is also commendable, as it minimizes splatters and allows for easy draining of the basket even while the lid is closed. However, the viewing window, while providing a glimpse into the frying process, is quite small and doesn’t offer a clear view of the food. This can make it a little tricky to monitor the cooking progress and avoid overcooking.
The adjustable temperature control with a ready light is a helpful feature, taking the guesswork out of frying. But the temperature dial is quite basic and lacks fine-tuning options, which might be a drawback for more experienced fryers who prefer precise temperature control.
While the removable lid, heating element, and enamel-coated oil tank facilitate cleanup, I found that oil residue can still be stubborn to remove. The overall user experience is decent, but the lack of a wider viewing window and finer temperature control slightly detract from the overall experience. At its price point, the Hamilton Beach Cool Touch Electric Deep Fryer offers decent value for money, but it might not be the best choice for those who prioritize advanced features and ease of cleaning.
2. OVENTE FDM2201BR 2 Liter Deep Fryer, Viewing Window
The OVENTE Electric Deep Fryer is a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy crispy, golden-brown fried foods at home. I was impressed with its rapid heat-up time, thanks to the powerful 1500W heating element. The 2-liter capacity is perfect for feeding a family, and the adjustable temperature control (275°F to 375°F) allows you to customize the frying process for different foods. I tested it with everything from french fries to chicken tenders, and the results were consistently delicious.
One of my favorite features is the viewing window on the lid. It lets you keep an eye on the frying progress without having to lift the lid and let out heat. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and prevents oil splatters. The locking lid also provides an extra layer of safety, and the replaceable odor filters are a great touch, minimizing any lingering grease smells in the kitchen.
Cleaning up after using the fryer is a breeze. The enameled oil container is dishwasher safe, and the removable frying basket can also be tossed in. The control box and heating element are easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. The cool-touch handles make it safe and comfortable to handle even when the fryer is hot, and the LED indicator lights clearly show when the fryer is heating up and when it has reached the desired temperature.
While the OVENTE Electric Deep Fryer doesn’t have the fanciest design, it delivers on functionality and performance. It’s a reliable and user-friendly appliance that produces restaurant-quality fried food. The price point is also very competitive, making it an excellent value for the money. My only minor complaint is that the viewing window could be a bit larger, but overall, this is a great deep fryer that I highly recommend.
1. Presto FryDaddy 05420 Electric
The Presto 05420 FryDaddy Electric Deep Fryer is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially those with limited counter space. As the top-ranked fryer in its category, it consistently delivers delicious, crispy fried foods without the hassle of traditional deep frying methods.
What impressed me most about the FryDaddy is its compact design. It’s small enough to fit comfortably on my countertop, yet it can still comfortably fry enough food for a family of four. The four-cup oil capacity is perfect for smaller batches, saving both oil and counter space. The automatic temperature control is a real time-saver. It effortlessly maintains the ideal frying temperature, ensuring my chicken, fries, and even onion rings come out perfectly cooked every time. I no longer have to constantly monitor the temperature, which was a major pain point with my previous fryer.
Another standout feature is the ceramic nonstick surface. It’s not only PFAS-free, which is a huge plus for health-conscious cooks, but it also makes cleanup a breeze. Food releases easily, and any residue wipes away effortlessly. The included fry scoop is also a handy addition, allowing me to easily lift and drain food from the hot oil without burning myself.
While the FryDaddy is incredibly efficient and easy to use, there’s one minor drawback: the oil capacity is a bit limited. If you’re frying a large amount of food for a crowd, you may need to cook in batches. However, for everyday use and smaller gatherings, this is a minor inconvenience. Overall, the Presto 05420 FryDaddy Electric Deep Fryer offers an excellent combination of features, ease of use, and value for money. It’s a fantastic investment for anyone who loves crispy, delicious fried foods without the mess and hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size electric fryer is best for a small kitchen?
A 2-3 liter capacity electric fryer is generally considered ideal for small kitchens. This size allows you to cook plenty of food for a family of 2-4 without taking up too much counter space.
What features should I look for in a small electric fryer?
When choosing a small electric fryer, consider features like adjustable temperature control, a timer, and a cool-touch handle.
Look for fryers with pre-set cooking programs for popular foods like french fries and chicken, and consider a model with a removable basket for easy cleaning.
What is the difference between a traditional deep fryer and a small electric fryer?
Traditional deep fryers typically use large amounts of oil and require more space.
Small electric fryers, on the other hand, use less oil and are more compact, making them perfect for smaller kitchens and individuals. Electric fryers also heat up faster and are generally easier to clean.
Conclusion
Choosing the best small electric fryer depends on your individual needs and cooking style. From compact models perfect for single servings to larger options for family meals, there’s a perfect fryer out there for everyone. Consider factors like capacity, features, and ease of cleaning when making your decision. Whether you’re a seasoned fryer enthusiast or just starting out, these top-rated options will help you enjoy crispy, delicious fried foods with ease.
