The bird’s nest fryer is a metal kitchen utensil that shapes and holds food as it fries, creating basket-shaped fried foods resembling bird nests. It is typically used for Asian food and has two baskets that bolt together and a long handle to avoid heat exposure. It is not suitable for batters but can be used for vegetables, meats, and noodles. A bird’s nest can make a fun presentation for foods like french fries.
The bird’s nest fryer is a kitchen utensil designed for use in deep fryers. When used correctly, the bird’s nest fryer shapes and holds food as it fries, allowing the cook to make basket-shaped fried foods that resemble birds’ nests. Typically, the bird’s nest is used as a bowl to hold a main dish. While the concept most commonly appears in Asian food, it can be used to great dramatic effect with other foods as well.
The construction of this type of fryer features two baskets that bolt together. One basket is slightly smaller than the other and nestles inside the other during the frying process. The food being shaped is placed between the baskets and the entire assembly is lowered into the fryer. In most cases, the bird’s nest fryer has a long handle, so that the cook is not exposed to splashes and heat from the fryer.
Typically, the bird’s nest fryer is made of some type of metal, so it can withstand the heat from the fryer. The baskets are made with as few supports as possible so that a maximum area of food is exposed to the heat. Some companies make bird fryers with cool handles made from materials such as silicone, as the metal handle can conduct heat from the fryer. After use, the fryer should be allowed to cool completely before washing, either by hand with hot soapy water or in the dishwasher. Thorough washing is important to prevent grease buildup.
Some foods are better suited to preparing in a bird’s fryer than others. Classic choices are cooked rice or wheat noodles and chopped vegetables such as potatoes, carrots or leeks. A fried vegetable basket is often used to hold mixed vegetables or meats, while a noodle nest can be used for the same purpose. This type of fryer is not usually good for batters, as they will drip through the baskets before they form, although stiff batters could be made in a bird’s fryer.
A bird’s nest can make a fun presentation for foods like french fries. The bird’s nest is usually prepared at the last minute, so it doesn’t get cold and oily as it sits. Using a garnish such as finely chopped chives, green onions, or carrots will add flair to the presentation.
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