Frying Pan 101: Choosing the Perfect Pan for Deep Frying

The type of pan you use for frying depends on what and how you’re frying, but I generally only use two kinds of pan for deep frying. Keep reading to find out which ones.

I get this question a lot, especially recently because of all the deep-fried recipes I’ve been sharing… #SorryNotSorry

Deep-fried food is a big part of the food scene, especially here in the US. I grew up with a Southern mom and a Chinese Dad, so fried (whether deep or stirred) was a big part of my food culture. When I say I can fry almost anything, I mean, I can fry almost anything.

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When I’m frying things, I like to use cooking items that I know can be used a lot and not just for one thing. So I personally have 2 pans that are my frying go to’s (although, I do have a deep fryer (click the link to read more on the deep fryer I use), because when you’re frying chicken for 20 people, a pan, no matter the size is bit tedious for the job. Yes, I have fried chicken for 20 people).

The Best Pans For Frying

1. The Wok
2. The Cast Iron Deep Skillet

Otherwise, keep reading. I get into why these are my go to’s and which are great for what.

The Cast Iron

What I love about a cast iron skillet is the versatility that comes with it. You can fry in it, cook in it, bake in it. It’s the one-stop shop as far as cookware goes. You can even bake a cake in them (See my Strawberry Shortcake Recipe)! And yes, you really can use them on an open flame or over a fire (I have made cobbler in a dutch oven camping).

Cast Iron Skillets are what my mother swears by. These pans need to be seasoned prior to use. If you don’t season the pan it will rust. Period. They also take work to maintain them and you can’t just put them in the dishwasher, but once you know how to take care of them, they will defiantly be one of your favorite items to cook in (how to care for cast iron pans coming soon).

The cast iron you see in the photos is actually my husband’s grandmother’s. So it’s old. But this Lodge Cast Iron Deep skillet is pretty darn close to what I have and I do own and love Lodge Cast Iron.

What to fry in a Cast Iron

Cast Iron Skillets are great for really anything you deep fry, but especially for items that take a little longer, like fried chicken, larger fish fillets for your beer batter fish, or chicken fried steak. I highly recommend you use a cast Iron. They hold heat longer and more consistently, so you’re less likely to burn your food, as long as you don’t crank up the temp on your burner. If you’re new to frying always use a thermometer.

The Wok

I literally bought this one a year ago after my last wok handle broke off (I go through a lot of woks). This wok is by far my favorite! This Bielmeier Brand wok is fantastic and has quickly become my favorite. The handle removes making seasoning your wok easy.

Much like cast iron, there is maintenance. If you don’t season the pan it will rust. Period. If that makes you nervous, don’t worry, this pan actually comes with directions on how to season your wok and continued care.

If you enjoy Chinese (or any Asian/Asian American food), you will need a wok. It cooks the food the best, especially stir fry. They are also the best for steamer baskets when making steamed wontons or bao.

What to fry in a Wok

Other than the obvious stir fry, deep frying in a wok is great for things that fry quickly like Cheese Curds, Wontons, or Shrimp. A Wok heats quickly, so be careful not to get antsy and crank the heat. If you’re new to frying always use a thermometer.

Don’t Want to Use a Pan?

Although I personally recommend a frying pan, a Fryer is another option. Fryers can be a little less messy cooking-wise. However, they are a major clean-up job after you’re done cooking. You have to clean the oil, the fryer, and the baskets. They’re not dishwasher safe, and are pretty much just used for frying. They are an option if you would rather not fry in a pan.

I have one, but I use it when I have a lot of company and don’t want to spend all night at the fryer (I also use it camping). The one I use is the Presto Dual Basket ProFry (affiliate link). I love this one and definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a deep fryer.

All products below available on Amazon:

Presto Stainless Steel Dual Basket Pro Fry Immersion Element Deep Fryer

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