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How to make crispy fried foods without using too much oil
26th May, 2026 08:31 AM
Many people love fried food for its crunchy texture and rich flavour. From fries and samosas to chicken and fish, crispy foods are hard to resist. However, one common concern in many homes is the amount of oil used during frying. Too much oil not only increases cooking costs but can also leave food feeling heavy and greasy.
The good news is that it is possible to make crispy fried foods without soaking them in oil. Small changes in preparation and cooking methods can make a big difference in the final result.
Choose the right coating
One of the easiest ways to achieve crispiness is by using the right coating before frying. Dry ingredients such as flour, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, or rice flour help create a crunchy outer layer that seals the food during cooking.
According to cooking information shared by Healthline, cornstarch is especially useful because it absorbs moisture and creates a lighter, crispy texture. Mixing flour with a little cornstarch can improve the crunch without needing excess oil.
Food should also be dried properly before coating. Excess water causes oil to splatter and can make fried foods soggy instead of crispy. Crispy food is not just about deep frying. Proper preparation plays a huge role in the texture.
Use the correct oil temperature
Temperature matters more than the amount of oil used. If the oil is too cold, food absorbs more oil and becomes greasy. If it is too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks properly.
Experts from Serious Eats recommend frying most foods at around 175°C to 190°C. This allows the outer layer to cook quickly and become crisp while preventing too much oil from entering the food.
A simple way to test oil without a thermometer is by dropping in a small piece of batter or a breadcrumb. If it fries immediately and rises slowly, the oil is ready. It also helps to avoid overcrowding the pan. Adding too much food at once lowers the oil temperature and affects crispiness.
Try healthier cooking methods
Deep frying is not the only way to enjoy crunchy foods. Air fryers and oven baking have become popular because they use little oil while still giving food a crispy finish.
The Mayo Clinic explains that air frying can reduce the amount of oil used in cooking while still achieving a texture similar to deep-fried foods. Lightly brushing or spraying food with oil before cooking can improve browning and crispiness.
Another useful trick is placing cooked food on a wire rack instead of paper towels. While paper towels absorb oil, they can trap steam underneath and soften the crust. A rack helps food stay crisp for longer.
By controlling moisture, using the right coating, and paying attention to temperature, home cooks can still enjoy crispy meals while cutting down on excess oil.
