Deep frying is a popular cooking method used to make food crispy and golden brown. It involves cooking food by fully submerging it in hot oil. The right oil is important because it affects the taste, texture, and healthiness of the food.
There are many types of oils available for deep frying. Some oils have higher smoke points, which means they can handle more heat without burning. Oils like vegetable oil, peanut oil, and canola oil are often used because they stay stable at high temperatures and don’t change the flavor of the food.
When choosing oil for deep frying, the most important things to consider are the smoke point, flavor, and cost. A high smoke point means the oil won’t break down and produce harmful compounds when heated. A neutral flavor helps the food’s taste stand out. We looked at many oils to find the ones that work best for deep frying and balance these factors well.
Top 3 Oils for Deep Frying
When we choose oils for deep frying, we look for high smoke points and neutral flavors. These qualities help us cook food evenly without burning the oil or adding unwanted taste.
1. Canola Oil
Canola oil has a high smoke point around 400°F (204°C). It is light in flavor, making it great for most fried foods. It is also affordable and widely available.
2. Peanut Oil
Peanut oil has a smoke point near 450°F (232°C). It adds a slight nutty flavor but does not overpower the food. This oil is stable at high heat and suitable for long frying sessions.
3. Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil’s smoke point is about 440°F (227°C). It is mild in taste and works well for deep frying. The oil is rich in vitamin E and stays fresh longer than some other options.
| Oil | Smoke Point (°F) | Flavor | Cost | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canola Oil | 400 | Neutral | Low | Everyday frying |
| Peanut Oil | 450 | Slightly nutty | Moderate | Foods needing high heat |
| Sunflower Oil | 440 | Mild | Moderate | General purpose frying |
All three oils are solid choices. Our pick depends on what flavor and frying temperature we need.
Best Oils for Deep Frying
We have tested and researched a variety of oils to find the best options for deep frying. These oils offer the right balance of smoke point, flavor, and cost to give you the best results in your kitchen. Here is our list of top choices for deep frying oils.
Amazon Grocery Peanut Oil 128 fl oz
This peanut oil is a solid pick for deep frying thanks to its high smoke point and clean taste.
Pros
- Handles high heat well without smoking
- Has a mild peanut flavor that doesn’t overpower food
- Large bottle size gives good value for regular use
Cons
- Bulk size might be too much for occasional cooks
- Contains peanut, so not suitable for allergy sufferers
- Packaging can vary during brand changes
We’ve used this peanut oil for frying fries and chicken, and it stayed stable in the hot deep fryer. The taste was subtle, leaving our food crisp without any greasy aftertaste, which we liked.
Opening the bottle gives you a faint peanut scent, but it disappears during cooking. The high smoke point means we can cook at higher temps without worrying about burning the oil or food.
The size is generous, so it lasts for many uses in our kitchen. That also means it takes a while to go through if you only fry occasionally, but the price is fair for such a big bottle. Overall, it’s a dependable oil for consistent deep frying.
Planters Peanut Oil
Planters Peanut Oil is a solid choice for deep frying thanks to its mild flavor and high smoke point that helps create crispy, tasty food.
Pros
- Mild peanut aroma that enhances fried dishes
- High smoke point for longer frying sessions
- Resealable jar keeps oil fresh between uses
Cons
- Smaller 24 oz size may require frequent repurchasing
- Subtle peanut flavor might not suit all recipes
- More refined than some peanut oils, less peanut taste
We found this oil easy to use in our fryer. The mild peanut taste gave our fries and wings a nice, subtle boost without overpowering the food. It heated up quickly and stayed stable at high temperatures, which is key for deep frying.
The resealable jar helped us keep the oil fresh since we don’t fry every day. While the 24 oz bottle is convenient, big volume fryers might need more oil, so you’ll want to restock often.
Overall, it worked well for everyday frying, baking, and even homemade salad dressings. For anyone wanting a reliable peanut oil that won’t break the bank or flood flavors, this Planters oil is worth trying.
Amazon Grocery Vegetable Oil
This vegetable oil is a solid choice for deep frying when you need a large amount that cooks evenly without changing flavors.
Pros
- Neutral taste that does not affect food flavor
- Large one-gallon size is great for frequent use
- Affordable price with consistent quality
Cons
- Packaging can vary, which might confuse repeat buyers
- Not ideal if you want an oil with extra health benefits
- Can feel heavy for lighter cooking needs
We have used this oil for deep frying batches of fries and chicken. It heats up smoothly and holds temperature well, giving us crispy results without burning quickly.
The neutral flavor means your fried foods taste just like they should—crispy and fresh, not oily or greasy. We also appreciate the big bottle because it lasts through many cooking sessions.
If you want a dependable, no-fuss vegetable oil that works great for frying and other cooking types, this one fits the bill without making a dent in your budget.
KOOL8SHOP Peanut Oil – 3 Gallons
This peanut oil is a solid choice for deep frying thanks to its high smoke point and clean flavor.
Pros
- High smoke point keeps oil stable when frying
- Light, mild nutty flavor won’t overpower food
- Large 3-gallon size lasts through many cooking sessions
Cons
- The big container can be hard to store
- Price may be higher than other oils
- Not ideal if you have peanut allergies
We used this 3-gallon peanut oil mainly for frying turkey and chicken. The oil heated evenly and stayed stable at the right temperatures, which helped us get a nice crispy crust. Its mild nutty flavor gently enhanced the food without being too strong.
Handling the large container was a bit tricky at first, but it made it easy to fry large batches without constant refilling. We appreciated how versatile it was for other cooking methods like sautéing and baking as well.
This oil gave us consistent results every time, making it a dependable staple in our kitchen for frying and more. If you want a reusable, quality oil, this one fits the bill well.
Crisco Vegetable Oil
Crisco Vegetable Oil is a solid choice for deep frying thanks to its neutral taste and dependable performance.
Pros
- Light flavor that won’t overpower your food
- Made from soybeans and has no trans fat
- Affordable and widely available
Cons
- Takes a bit longer to arrive sometimes
- Not the highest smoke point compared to some specialty oils
- Packaging can be bulky for small kitchens
We’ve used Crisco Vegetable Oil several times for frying chicken and fries. It holds heat well, producing a crispy crust without the oil tasting heavy or greasy. The flavor stays neutral, which lets the food’s natural taste shine.
This oil works well for big batches since the gallon size lasts through multiple cooking sessions. It’s also great for baking or light sautéing, which makes it versatile beyond deep frying.
While it’s not the purest oil out there, Crisco’s balance of quality and cost makes it a dependable go-to for everyday kitchen use. We find it especially useful when frying large meals where you want consistent results without much fuss.
Crisco Canola Oil
Crisco Canola Oil works well for deep frying thanks to its light flavor and decent heat tolerance.
Pros
- Light, neutral taste that doesn’t affect the flavor of food
- Large bottle size gives good value for the price
- Low in trans fats and cholesterol-free
Cons
- Bottle design might not pour as smoothly as expected
- Not the highest smoke point oil on the market
- Slightly less robust than some specialty frying oils
We used Crisco Canola Oil for frying chicken and fries. The oil heated evenly and didn’t leave any strong aftertaste. Foods had a crisp outside and stayed light, which matters when frying.
The size of the bottle means you can cook many batches without reordering. It’s a solid option if you fry regularly and want a good balance between cost and quality. The bottle cap was simple but sealed well, keeping the oil fresh.
While it’s great for everyday frying, those wanting oils with super high heat tolerance might look elsewhere. Still, for basic frying, Crisco gives consistent results without adding heavy flavors or greasiness.
Amazon Grocery Canola Oil
This canola oil is a solid choice for deep frying thanks to its neutral flavor and good heat stability.
Pros
- Light taste that won’t overpower food
- Large 48-ounce bottle lasts through many cooking sessions
- No trans fats and cholesterol-free
Cons
- Packaging may vary during brand transition
- Not ideal if you want a more flavorful oil
- Can lack some richness compared to other oils
We found this oil heats evenly and holds up well when frying. The flavor stays neutral, so it doesn’t affect the taste of fried foods. It’s perfect when you want the food’s natural flavors to shine.
The bottle size is convenient for regular use without refilling too often. We also appreciate that it’s free from trans fats, which many prefer for health reasons.
One thing to note is that the packaging might look different depending on when you order it, as it’s shifting from the Happy Belly brand to Amazon Grocery. Aside from that, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly oil for everyday deep frying.
Crisco Canola Oil
Crisco Canola Oil is a solid choice for deep frying because it stays light and doesn’t affect the flavor of food.
Pros
- Flavorless with a light texture
- Works well for frying, cooking, and baking
- No trans fat per serving
Cons
- Can catch fire if overheated
- Some may find it too mild in flavor
- Not ideal for recipes needing a strong oil taste
We’ve used Crisco Canola Oil mainly for frying chicken and fish. It heats evenly and doesn’t leave any greasy or heavy aftertaste, which is nice when you want your food’s own flavor to shine.
The oil’s mild taste means it won’t clash with spices or seasonings, making it versatile. It also pours easily from the large gallon container without spilling.
One thing we noticed is how it handles heat well but needs careful monitoring to avoid going over its smoke point. Overall, it’s a dependable oil if you want something straightforward and effective for deep frying.
Snappy Peanut Oil
This peanut oil works well for frying with a nice nutty flavor and handles high heat without breaking down.
Pros
- Adds a natural nutty taste to fried foods
- High smoke point stands up to deep frying heat
- Ready to use at room temperature without melting
Cons
- Strong peanut flavor may not suit every dish
- Slightly thicker pour than other oils
- Not organic or cold-pressed
We found Snappy Peanut Oil adds a pleasant, natural nutty flavor to everything we fried. It was especially good with popcorn and fried chicken, giving a crisp texture without burning. The oil held up well in our turkey fryer, staying stable even at high temperatures.
Pouring the oil was easy since it doesn’t need melting or special storage. It comes ready to use, which saved us time and fuss in the kitchen. The oil is also free from artificial colors and trans fats, which gives us confidence using it regularly.
While the peanut taste is noticeable, it wasn’t overpowering and worked well with most recipes. However, if you want a neutral oil, this might not be the best choice. Overall, it’s a solid, reliable oil for anyone who wants flavor plus performance in deep frying.
Iberia Premium Blend, Sunflower & Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This blend works well for those who want a light, heart-healthy oil that holds up under high heat.
Pros
- Mild flavor that doesn’t overpower food
- Good for high-heat frying and everyday cooking
- Large 68 oz bottle offers great value
Cons
- Not pure olive oil, mostly sunflower oil
- Olive flavor is subtle, may disappoint those wanting strong olive taste
- Bulky size can be hard to store in small kitchens
We found the Iberia blend easy to use when frying because it heats quickly and stays stable. Its mild taste lets the food’s flavor come through, which is handy when cooking many types of dishes. The oil feels light and doesn’t leave greasy residue after frying.
Because it combines sunflower oil and extra virgin olive oil, it offers a good source of healthy fats. We liked knowing the blend had a balance of heart-healthy nutrients without the stronger olive aroma. The bottle size is generous, making it a cost-effective choice for families or avid home cooks.
However, if you want a strong olive oil taste, this mix falls short. The olive oil here is mostly for health benefits and mild flavor, not rich olive notes. Also, the large bottle needs a decent space in the kitchen since it’s quite bulky.
Overall, Iberia’s blend is a solid option for deep frying and daily cooking, especially if a light, heart-friendly oil is a priority.
Crisco Canola Oil
We found Crisco Canola Oil to be a solid choice for deep frying thanks to its light flavor and high smoke point.
Pros
- Neutral taste that won’t overpower food
- Handles high heat without burning
- Versatile for frying, baking, and dressings
Cons
- Bottle design can be slippery when oily
- Lacks added antioxidants or nutrients
- Slightly thinner texture than some prefer
When we fried foods with Crisco Canola Oil, nothing masked the natural flavor of the ingredients. It did not leave any greasy or heavy aftertaste, which made it easy to use across different recipes. The oil heated quickly and held its temperature well, giving us consistent, crispy results.
Because it is unflavored and smooth, it worked nicely not just for frying but for baking as well. We also appreciated that it contains no trans fats and is cholesterol free, which adds some peace of mind when cooking regularly with it.
One small drawback was the bottle itself. It required careful handling to avoid spills when pouring, especially after some oil residue built up. Still, its affordability and reliability make it a dependable kitchen staple.
Overall, this Crisco oil delivered good frying performance without hassle or odd flavors. It’s a smart pick for anyone needing an everyday versatile frying oil.
AVO Peanut Oil
We recommend AVO Peanut Oil for deep frying because it delivers consistent crispy results with a mild nutty flavor.
Pros
- High smoke point keeps oil stable during frying
- Mild flavor enhances without overpowering food
- Large 1-gallon size is great for frequent use
Cons
- More expensive than some other cooking oils
- Retains some flavors if reused
- Not fully refined, which may affect delicate recipes
This peanut oil stood out when we used it for frying turkey and other large meals. It heats evenly and holds up well without smoking, which helps keep our food crisp and light. The nutty aroma is subtle but nice, adding a bit of extra taste.
We found the big size handy since it lasts through many cooking sessions, especially if you like to strain and reuse oil carefully. It’s clear and clean, but we noticed it tends to carry flavors over if reused several times.
While the price is higher than basic vegetable oils, the quality makes it worth considering if you want reliable, safe frying oil with a natural touch. Overall, this oil fits nicely in both home and professional kitchens.
Kevala Avocado Oil
We recommend this oil for anyone who needs a versatile and reliable oil that holds up well at high heat.
Pros
- High smoke point ideal for deep frying
- Neutral taste that doesn’t affect food flavor
- Large bottle provides good value
Cons
- Takes a bit longer to brown food compared to other oils
- Comes in a BPA-free plastic bottle, which some may not prefer
- Slightly higher price than some common cooking oils
This avocado oil works well for deep frying because it stays stable at high temperatures without smoking. We found it easy to cook with, and it didn’t add any strange aftertaste to fried foods.
The oil’s neutral flavor is a big plus. It lets the food’s natural flavors shine through, unlike stronger oils that can overpower a dish. Also, the cold pressing makes it feel like a cleaner, purer option.
While it takes a little more time to get a nice brown color on meat or fries, this didn’t affect the final taste. The large 128-ounce bottle lasts a long time in our kitchen, which makes it cost-effective despite a higher price point. Overall, it’s a solid pick for anyone frying often.
BetterBody Avocado Oil
This avocado oil is a solid choice if you want a clean, mild oil that handles high heat well for frying and more.
Pros
- High smoke point, great for deep frying
- Mild flavor that doesn’t overpower food
- Non-GMO and free of additives
Cons
- Pricier than common vegetable oils
- Bottle size might be small for frequent deep frying
- Subtle taste may feel bland for some
We found that BetterBody’s refined avocado oil works well for various cooking styles. It has a smooth flavor that lets the food shine without adding any strong taste. When frying, it stood up to heat without breaking down or smoking.
Its clean profile makes it easy to use in recipes beyond frying, like salad dressings or sautéing. We liked the fact it has no additives, which fits nicely with clean eating and keto diets.
Although it’s a bit more expensive than standard oils, it feels like a good investment for healthier cooking. The bottle is convenient, but you may need to buy more often if you deep fry a lot. Overall, it’s a dependable oil that suits many cooking needs.
Buying Guide
When we choose an oil for deep frying, we look for a high smoke point. This means the oil can stay hot without burning. Oils with low smoke points can produce bad flavors and harmful compounds.
Stability is another key factor. We want oils that do not break down easily when heated. This helps keep food tasting good and avoids harmful byproducts.
We also consider the flavor of the oil. Some oils have a strong taste that can affect the food. Neutral oils work best if we want the food’s natural flavor to stand out.
What to Look For
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | Prevents the oil from burning |
| Stability | Keeps oil fresh during long frying |
| Flavor | Affects the taste of the fried food |
| Price | Helps balance quality and budget |
| Health Aspects | Look for oils with good fats like unsaturated fats |
It’s also important to buy oils that are fresh and stored properly. We should check the expiration date and keep the oil in a cool, dark place.
By focusing on these features, we can pick the best oil for deep frying safely and enjoy tasty results.
Editor’s Choice
We recommend peanut oil as one of the best oils for deep frying. It has a high smoke point of around 450°F (232°C), which means it can handle high heat without breaking down. This makes food crispy without a burnt taste.
Another top option is canola oil. It has a smoke point near 400°F (204°C), making it suitable for most frying tasks. Canola oil is also mild in flavor, so it doesn’t overpower the food.
We also like sunflower oil for deep frying. Its smoke point is about 440°F (227°C), and it has a neutral taste. This makes sunflower oil versatile for different types of fried foods.
| Oil | Smoke Point (°F) | Flavor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peanut Oil | 450 | Mild, Nutty | Moderate |
| Canola Oil | 400 | Neutral | Low |
| Sunflower Oil | 440 | Neutral | Moderate |
These oils balance heat tolerance and flavor well. They help us get crisp, golden results without adding strong tastes to the food. We suggest using these oils to achieve good frying results safely and efficiently.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We found that Amazon offers a wide variety of oils for deep frying. The site has options that fit most budgets and cooking needs.
Some popular oils on Amazon include:
- Canola Oil: Affordable and has a high smoke point.
- Peanut Oil: Great for flavor and heat stability.
- Sunflower Oil: Light taste and good for high heat.
- Avocado Oil: Higher price but very healthy with a high smoke point.
Amazon often has deals on larger bottles, which is cheaper if you fry food often. You can also find bundle packs that combine different oils.
We suggest checking the “Amazon’s Choice” and “Best Seller” tags. These help identify products that are popular and well-reviewed by other buyers.
Prices on Amazon update regularly. It’s smart to compare a few brands and sizes to get the best value.
We also recommend reading customer reviews. They give insight into the oil’s quality and shipping experience.
Here’s a quick table of typical price ranges on Amazon (subject to change):
| Oil Type | Price Range (per 1L) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canola Oil | $5 – $10 | Most affordable |
| Peanut Oil | $8 – $15 | Good flavor, mid-range |
| Sunflower Oil | $6 – $12 | Light taste, common |
| Avocado Oil | $10 – $20 | Healthier, premium price |
Using Amazon makes it easy to explore different oils without leaving home.
FAQs
What makes an oil good for deep frying?
We look for oils with a high smoke point. This means the oil can handle high heat without burning. Oils with neutral flavor are also helpful, so they don’t change the taste of our food.
Can we reuse frying oil?
Yes, but only a few times. After frying, let the oil cool, strain out food bits, and store it in a sealed container. Throw it away if it smells bad or looks cloudy.
Is olive oil good for deep frying?
It depends. Extra virgin olive oil has a lower smoke point, so it’s not ideal for deep frying. However, lighter olive oils with higher smoke points work better for frying.
Why avoid butter or unrefined oils?
Butter and unrefined oils have low smoke points. They burn quickly, making food taste bitter and can create harmful compounds.
What if we don’t have specific oils?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are often safe bets. They usually have high smoke points and neutral flavors. We recommend these for everyday deep frying.
| Oil Type | Smoke Point (°F) | Good for Deep Frying? | Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peanut Oil | ~450 | Yes | Mild |
| Canola Oil | ~400 | Yes | Neutral |
| Extra Virgin Olive | ~375 | No | Strong |
| Vegetable Oil | ~400 | Yes | Neutral |
| Butter | ~350 | No | Strong |
Conclusion
When choosing oils for deep frying, we focus on those with high smoke points. These oils handle heat well without breaking down. This helps us cook food that is crispy and tasty.
Some great options include peanut oil, canola oil, and sunflower oil. They each have smoke points above 400°F, making them safe for deep frying.
We also consider flavor. Oils like peanut and avocado add mild taste, while vegetable oils keep the flavor neutral. This lets us control how our food tastes.
Using the right oil helps us cook efficiently and safely. It also helps keep the food texture just right. Avoid oils with low smoke points to prevent burnt flavors and harmful compounds.
| Oil Type | Smoke Point (°F) | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Peanut Oil | 450 | Mild, nutty |
| Canola Oil | 400 | Neutral |
| Sunflower Oil | 440 | Light, neutral |
| Avocado Oil | 520 | Slightly buttery |
Our goal is to pick oils that fit our cooking needs and health care. By knowing the right oils, we can fry foods better every time.
