Fried fish is a popular dish enjoyed across various cuisines, and the secret to achieving that perfect crispy texture lies in the oil used for deep frying. The right oil can make all the difference as it not only affects the flavor, but also the health benefits and even cooking temperature. With a variety of oils on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is best suited for deep frying fish.
Different oils have their characteristics, such as smoke points, flavors, and nutritional profiles. The smoke point is particularly important for deep frying as it indicates the temperature at which the oil begins to break down and produce smoke. For deep frying fish, it’s essential to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent burning and an unpleasant aftertaste. Besides the smoke point, the oil’s flavor should also complement the fish without overpowering it.
When looking for the best oil for deep frying fish, consider factors like smoke point, flavor, and health benefits. Additionally, take note of the oil’s accessibility and cost-effectiveness. It’s essential to strike a balance between these factors to ensure a delicious meal without compromising on quality.
I have spent extensive hours researching and testing various oils, looking for the ones that yield perfectly crispy and flavorful fried fish. Read on to find out the top contenders that will help elevate your deep-fried fish experience to the next level!
Best Oils for Deep Frying Fish
I’ve gathered a list of the best oils for deep frying fish just for you. Indulge in the flavors and crisp textures of perfectly fried fish with these top-notch products.
A budget-friendly peanut oil choice for those looking to fry up delicious fish dishes.
Pros
Excellent value for a 128-fluid ounce bottle
Delivers a pleasant, light flavor to fried fish
Versatile for various cooking styles, including wok cooking
Cons
Packaging may vary, possibly causing confusion
Not suitable for those with peanut allergies
Some may prefer different oil types for frying
This Amazon Fresh Peanut Oil provides a great value for a full 128-fluid ounce bottle. I fried some fish with it recently, and it imparted a nice, light flavor to the dish without overpowering it. The oil is quite versatile and can be used for general cooking as well as wok cooking.
I should note that the packaging on this product may vary as it’s transitioning from the Happy Belly brand to the Amazon Fresh brand. Keep in mind that while the packaging may change, you still get the same quality oil inside. Despite being a peanut oil, Amazon Fresh ensures that their product is made with high-quality standards, making it a perfect choice for those seeking budget-friendly cooking oil options.
However, for those with peanut allergies or preferences for other oil types, this may not be the ideal choice. When using this oil, be cautious when frying, as with any cooking oil, to avoid smoke or spattering. Overall, I would recommend the Amazon Fresh Peanut Oil for anyone looking for a good value and excellent performance when deep frying fish.
Perfectly fries a variety of foods including fish, French fries, turkeys, and tofu
Gluten-free
Kosher Pareve
Cons
1-gallon size might be excessive for some users
Heavier in weight compared to other oils
Some may prefer a different oil for specific tastes
I recently fried some fish using the Crisco Frying Oil Blend, and I must say, I was quite impressed. It heated quickly and maintained a consistent temperature, allowing the fish to cook evenly and achieve a golden brown exterior. The oil didn’t overpower the fish’s taste, delivering a satisfying flavor without being too greasy.
Moreover, the fact that this oil is gluten-free and kosher pareve opens up its use for different individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences. It also proved to be versatile by handling other food items, such as French fries, turkeys, and tofu admirably.
On the flip side, I found the 1-gallon size a bit cumbersome for storage in my kitchen. If you cook for a smaller household or don’t fry food regularly, you might find it excessive too. Also, the oil’s weight seemed heavier compared to some others I’ve used. Taste-wise, it met my expectations, but some people may prefer other oils for specific flavors.
In conclusion, the Crisco Frying Oil Blend is an excellent product for deep-frying fish with its ideal blend of oils. It caters to a wide range of dietary needs while delivering consistently tasty, crisp results. Though the container size and oil’s weight may not be ideal for everyone, it’s worth considering if you find yourself frying fish and other foods often.
When I first tried Admiration’s Heavy Duty Canola Liquid Frying Oil, it was a gamechanger for frying fish at home. The high-quality canola oil provided a perfect base for locking in flavors and allowed the fish to cook evenly without absorbing excess oil.
What I’ve noticed in my experience with this oil is its heavy-duty performance, which made it ideal for deep-frying fish. The fact that it’s used in many restaurants across the US speaks volumes about its quality. The taste of the fish was outstanding, making it clear why chefs trust this oil to deliver that restaurant-quality flavor.
However, there were some drawbacks, such as the size of the container it comes in. At 35 pounds, it was slightly inconvenient to store and handle, especially for small kitchen spaces. I also noticed that there weren’t any other flavor options available, meaning I had to rely on additional seasonings for variety. Additionally, the container didn’t have a resealable feature, which would have been a useful addition to prevent spillage and maintain freshness.
Despite these minor inconveniences, my overall experience with Admiration’s Heavy Duty Canola Liquid Frying Oil was highly satisfying. The quality and taste were exceptional, and it definitely made frying fish an enjoyable culinary experience.
I recently had the chance to deep fry some fish using Member’s Mark Bakers & Chefs Clear Frying Oil. My experience with it was quite satisfactory overall. The oil heated up quickly, ensuring a fast turnover time for my frying needs. Being gluten-free and containing no cholesterol, it felt like a healthier option for deep frying without compromising on taste.
The easy-to-pour jug design was a nice touch, as I didn’t have to worry about spillage during the transfer of oil into my fryer. Additionally, the oil was versatile enough to use for both pan frying and deep frying, perfect for a variety of dishes I prepared.
However, one drawback I noticed is that the oil is soybean-based, not peanut oil. Some people might find this disappointing if they were expecting peanut oil specifically. Also, the price feels a bit steep for the quantity provided, considering similar products available in the market. Lastly, while I did not personally experience any off smell, I did come across a few users that reported a rancid smell.
In conclusion, Member’s Mark Bakers & Chefs Clear Frying Oil is a functional option when it comes to deep frying fish. Its gluten-free nature, versatility, and easy-to-use jug design make it worth considering, despite its soybean base and slightly high price point.
Happy Belly’s Vegetable Soybean Oil is a quality, versatile oil that’s perfect for deep frying fish.
Pros
Light, non-greasy flavor
Affordable and great value
Cholesterol-free and 0g trans fats per serving
Cons
Made from soybeans, which may not be suitable for those with allergies
Packaging may vary
Requires caution while heating to avoid burning
I recently started using Happy Belly’s Vegetable Soybean Oil in my kitchen and I’m loving the results. The light, non-greasy flavor enhances the taste of the fish without overpowering it. The large 128-fluid ounce bottle ensures that I’m getting fantastic value for my money, making it an economical choice for frequent use.
As someone who’s conscious about my health, I appreciate that this oil is cholesterol-free and contains 0g of trans fats per serving. It’s nice to know that I can fry fish without compromising my well-being. However, I must mention that this oil is made from soybeans, which may not be suitable for those with allergies.
One thing to keep in mind is that the packaging may vary, so don’t be alarmed if you receive a different container than what’s shown in the image. Always remember to take caution when heating the oil – don’t leave it unattended and reduce heat if the oil starts to smoke. This is to prevent burning and potential injury.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Happy Belly’s Vegetable Soybean Oil for deep frying fish. Its light, non-greasy flavor, affordability, and health-conscious properties make it a solid choice for any kitchen.
Buying Guide
When I’m looking for the best oil to deep fry fish, I consider several features to make my choice. To make it easier for you, I’ve listed down the essential factors that should be taken into account.
Smoke Point: The first thing I pay attention to is the smoke point of the oil. It’s the temperature at which the oil starts to break down chemically and produce smoke. For deep frying fish, I’d recommend choosing an oil with a high smoke point, ideally above 375°F (190°C), so the oil doesn’t break down during frying.
Health Benefits: While deep-frying may not be the healthiest cooking method, I still prefer using oils with some health benefits. Oils with lower amounts of saturated fats and higher amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are considered a healthier option. So, I usually pay attention to the fatty acid composition of the oil.
Here’s a quick reference table to help you compare some common oils:
Oil Type
Smoke Point (°F/°C)
Flavor
Saturated Fat (%)
Monounsaturated Fat (%)
Polyunsaturated Fat (%)
Vegetable
400/204
Neutral
13
31
54
Canola
400/204
Mild
6
62
32
Sunflower
440/227
Mild
11
20
69
Cost: Finally, I also take into account the cost of the oil. Some oils are more expensive than others, so I try to find a balance between price and the features mentioned above.
By considering these factors, I can choose the best oil for deep frying fish that suits both my taste and budget. Hopefully, this buying guide helps you make an informed decision as well.
Best Oil to Fry Fish: We Test 5 in our Kitchen
These options are sure to be a hit. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
In my experience, the healthiest oils for frying fish are those that are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats can contribute to better heart health. Some options include canola oil, sunflower oil, and peanut oil. Remember to use them in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
Which oils have high smoke points for deep frying?
Having a high smoke point is essential for deep frying, as it prevents the oil from breaking down and creating harmful substances. Some oils that I have found with high smoke points are refined peanut oil, soybean oil, and vegetable oil. These oils are suitable for deep frying fish, as they remain stable at high temperatures.
Can I fry fish in olive oil?
Yes, you can deep fry fish in olive oil, but I would recommend using light or extra light olive oil, as it has a higher smoke point than extra virgin olive oil. The light variety will allow you to fry fish effectively without risking burning the oil or the fish itself. However, olive oil may impart a stronger flavor compared to more neutral oils.
What oil do professional chefs use for frying fish?
Many professional chefs prefer using oils with high smoke points and neutral flavors when frying fish. Some popular options among chefs are peanut oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil. These oils handle high heat effectively and don’t overpower the flavor of the fish.
How does avocado oil perform in deep frying fish?
Avocado oil is an excellent option for deep frying fish. It boasts a high smoke point of around 500°F (260°C), which is ideal for the task. Additionally, its mild flavor allows the taste of the fish to shine through. Plus, avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, making it a healthier choice compared to some other options.
Which oil works best for frying fish in a cast iron skillet?
When frying fish in a cast iron skillet, it’s essential to use an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. In my experience, canola oil, grapeseed oil, and vegetable oil are all great options for this purpose. These oils allow you to cook your fish without risking any off-flavors or harmful byproducts from burning.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
