Expert QA

Simon Gault: Battering food

Why do my tempura always stick to the basket when I try to deep-fry them?

I’m hoping you can give me some tips regarding tempura vegetables and fish in batter. When using a home deep-fryer, I find fish and other items stick to the basket whenever I attempt to cook them!

Submerge the basket first, then slowly lower the fish or vegetables into the oil.

If you put them in the basket first, then lower it, it’s all over. Also, if you drop them in too quickly, they’ll hit the bottom of the basket and get stuck there.

Never put more than a couple of items in your fryer at a time. You’ll lower the temperature of the oil, and end up with soggy food, rather than that crispy finish you’re after.

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