Description
Southern comfort meets crispy perfection in Paula Deen’s signature deep-fry batter. Rich golden coating promises irresistible crunch that elevates simple ingredients into crave-worthy comfort classics you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 50 grams (1.76 ounces) plain flour
- 50 grams (1.76 ounces) cornflour
- 50 grams (1.76 ounces) rice flour
Leavening Agent:
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Liquid and Seasoning:
- 5–10 degrees cold water
- Salt to taste
Frying:
- 1 liter (33.8 fluid ounces) Frymax palm oil, for frying
Instructions
- Craft a versatile batter by blending 50 grams (1/3 cup) plain flour, 50 grams (1/3 cup) cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon baking powder in a spacious mixing bowl. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to enhance flavor, then gradually incorporate cold water while whisking vigorously until the mixture transforms into a silky, uniform consistency without any lumps. Allow the batter to rest and settle for 20 minutes, enabling the ingredients to meld together harmoniously.
- Prepare a deep saucepan and pour 1 liter (4 cups) of Frymax palm oil or vegetable oil. Heat the oil carefully until it reaches a precise temperature of 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit), ensuring an optimal frying environment.
- Create a light dusting station using rice flour. Gently coat each ingredient with a thin, even layer of rice flour, which will help the batter adhere more effectively and produce a delicate, crisp exterior.
- Immerse each ingredient into the prepared batter, allowing excess liquid to drip off momentarily. Carefully lower the battered item into the hot oil, ensuring it is fully submerged. Rotate the pieces periodically to guarantee uniform golden-brown coloration and consistent cooking.
- Once the ingredients achieve a rich, golden-brown hue, extract them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Transfer to a layer of absorbent paper towels to drain excess oil, preserving the crispy texture. Serve immediately while the food remains piping hot and wonderfully crunchy.
Notes
- Drain excess oil quickly on paper towels to preserve the crispy texture and prevent sogginess right after frying.
- Maintain precise oil temperature around 180°C (350°F) using a kitchen thermometer for consistent, golden-brown results every single time.
- Let batter rest for minimum 20 minutes to allow flour molecules to fully hydrate and create smoother, more delicate coating.
- Sprinkle a light layer of rice flour over ingredients before battering to help coating adhere perfectly and develop an extra-thin crunch.
- Select water temperatures between 5-10°C (41-50°F) for maximum batter crispiness, considering adding ice cubes or chilling water beforehand.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Dinner
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 208
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 167mg
- Fat: 16.8g
- Saturated Fat: 8.4g
- Carbohydrates: 12.8g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 0.9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg