The All-American Guide to Fried Foods
Nothing screams “American” quite like a plate of crispy fried foods. From Southern classics to carnival favorites, we’ve all indulged in something deliciously fried at least once. But with rising health and nutrition concerns, can we still enjoy these golden treats without sacrificing our well-being? In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what fried foods American people want the most, explore their health implications, and provide some tips on how to make them healthier. Plus, we’ll discuss the differences between cooking oil and air fryers and highlight some of the best air fryers available in the US market.
Most Popular Fried Foods in America
Fried chicken - A staple of Southern cuisine, fried chicken is a mainstay on menus across the country, from fast-food chains to hole-in-the-wall diners. The iconic dish consists of chicken coated in flour and seasonings, then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
French fries - Whether as a side dish or as a snack, French fries are a beloved-fried favorite. Typically made from potatoes, they are sliced into thin pieces, soaked in water to remove excess starch, then fried until crispy and salted to taste.
Onion rings - Another classic side dish, onion rings are made by dipping sliced onions in batter or breadcrumbs, then frying until crispy. They can be found in diners, burger joints, and high-end restaurants.
Fried seafood - From shrimp to catfish, fried seafood is a classic Southern and Eastern coastal favorite. Seafood is typically coated in a batter or panko crumbs, then deep-fried until golden brown.
The Health Implications of Fried Foods
While fried foods are undoubtedly delicious, they are notoriously high in fat and calories. Studies have linked the consumption of fried foods to an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. To make fried foods healthier, consider alternative breading options such as almond flour, quinoa, or whole wheat breadcrumbs. Additionally, oven “frying” or an air fryer can help reduce the oil used and the overall calorie count.
Cooking Oil vs. Air Fryers
When it comes to frying foods, there are generally two options: cooking oil or air fryers. Traditional frying methods require deep-frying the food in oil, which can be high in calories and lead to health problems. On the other hand, air fryers use hot air to cook the food and can reduce the amount of oil needed. That being said, not all air fryers are created equal. Some models have a higher wattage and can cook food more quickly and evenly than others. Additionally, features like temperature control, size, and ease of use should be considered before purchasing.
Best Air Fryers Available in the US Market
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven - This all-in-one appliance can cook up to 3 pounds of food and has a spacious interior and adjustable thermostat.
GoWISE USA Electric Air Fryer - Available in various colors and sizes, this affordable air fryer can cook food to crispy perfection in just a fraction of the time of traditional frying.
Ninja Foodi - This versatile air fryer can cook, bake, roast, and dehydrate food with its six cooking functions, making it an ideal choice for those who cook at home.
In conclusion, fried foods can still be enjoyed healthier by using alternative breading options, oven frying, or an air fryer. When choosing an air fryer, it’s essential to consider factors such as wattage, size, and ease of use to determine which model is suitable for you. Whether you enjoy your fried foods with guilt or a side of nutritional science, there is no denying the enduring popularity of these delicious American classics.
