If you’re looking to buy fried foods online, you’ll find plenty to choose from: fish fingers and chicken nuggets, chips, Asian snacks, Korean street food specialities and handy kitchen equipment. But product photos alone won’t tell you whether an item is right for your household.
There are three common reasons for choosing the wrong product:
The instructions on the packaging matter more than general marketing claims. For frozen products, it should be clear whether they can be cooked straight from frozen and which cooking method is recommended.
Examples from the range:
A single temperature recommendation isn’t a promise of quality, but it can help you check that a product is compatible with the equipment you have. If you deep-fry regularly, look for a fryer with enough capacity and an easy-to-read temperature control.
With coated products, it’s not just the meat or fish content that matters: check the coating and sauces too. Iglo Fish Fingers, for example, contain 65% Alaska pollock fillet and wheat. Vossko Chicken Nuggets are listed as containing 57% chicken, while the accompanying dips include allergen information for ingredients such as soy, milk, celery and mustard.
It’s worth checking the ingredients carefully for Asian specialities:
If you have an allergy or intolerance, always check the information on the current packaging. Product details may change.
Frozen products generally need to be stored at −18 °C or below. Many items must not be refrozen once thawed. Plan how you’ll store your delivery and check that you have enough room in your freezer.
Pack sizes vary considerably:
Shelf-stable items such as fried onions, sardines and instant noodles don’t need to be kept frozen. Once opened, though, they still have their own storage instructions, such as keeping them in a cool place or using them within a few days.
If you want to cook chips, chicken nuggets or fried onions the traditional way, you’ll need an oil with a suitable recommended temperature. According to the product description, Jeden Tag Pure Frying & Cooking Oil is suitable for an ideal frying temperature of 175 °C. It’s made from a blend of vegetable oils and can be filtered once cooled. Never leave hot oil unattended, and keep it away from water.
An electric deep fryer lets you control the temperature. The MAWIRON model has a 2 l capacity, 1,000 W of power and a temperature range of 80 to 190 °C. A removable basket, oil pourer and heat-insulated handle make it easier to use. Don’t exceed the maximum fill level, and always place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
Why this product suits you: The 750 g pack is ideal for fuss-free sides and can be cooked in the oven, air fryer or electric deep fryer.
The packaging gives several cooking options, along with specific temperature and timing ranges. That means you don’t need a dedicated deep fryer.
Listed as containing 96.5% potatoes; labelled vegetarian, vegan and lactose-free.
Why this product suits you: The pack contains ten fish fingers made with Alaska pollock fillet, with clear information about their origin, cooking instructions and allergens.
The product description lists 65% Alaska pollock fillet and gives oven and pan cooking instructions. This makes it easier to compare with more heavily coated alternatives.
Listed as containing 65% Alaska pollock fillet; the product description states that the fishery is MSC-certified.
Why this product suits you: The 1 kg pack is designed for households that regularly make chicken karaage, Asian snacks or meals for several people.
The pack size is clearly stated, and storage at −18 °C is specified. This makes it easier to check that you have enough freezer space before you buy.
Listed as containing 60% chicken thigh meat; seasoned with soy sauce, ginger and garlic.
Why this product suits you: This ready-to-eat product with soy and honey sauce can be served as a snack, side or quick meal, and heated in the microwave or in hot water.
You don’t need separate frying oil to prepare it. The product description also lists allergens such as wheat, fish and soy.
Listed as containing 57% chicken; heats in 1 to 2 minutes in the microwave or 5 minutes in boiling water.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Chips, fish fingers and chicken nuggets usually need only an oven, frying pan, air fryer or electric deep fryer. Ready-made products such as Bibigo Sobaba make preparation even easier. Always follow the specific instructions from the manufacturer.
This depends on the temperature, type of food, how dirty the oil gets and how often it’s used. Once cooled, the oil should be filtered and stored in a dark place. Don’t use it again if it has an unusual smell, is heavily discoloured, starts smoking or contains residue. Always follow the maximum temperature specified for the product.
As well as the purchase price, you’ll need to factor in the cost of frying oil and electricity. The main considerations are the appliance’s power, preheating time, the amount of oil and cooking time. A 1,000 W appliance running for one hour would theoretically use 1 kWh; the actual cost depends on how long you use it and your electricity tariff.