****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
We've only used it once, but this Crosson 10 lb deep fryer is clearly a well-built appliance. After doing much research (as always) I decided on the features I did and did NOT want in a countertop deep fryer:1. After reading about all the spills and issues with loose tops, I did NOT want a "convenient" removable oil tub with built in filter, etc. Too many photos of too many tops that popped off, dumping oil all over hell's half acre. That kind of occurrence tends to degrade the quality of my life. I went for the straightforward, removable oil tank that you lift from the unit. This Crosson has two sturdy handles built into the sides of the oil tank for removal. Check.2. I did NOT want a magnetically-attached power cord. This wasn't necessarily a deal killer because they are standard on so many countertop fryers. I'm delighted that this Crosson has a robust, internally connected power cord. Check.3. I DID want as deep a basket as possible for a countertop fryer. At just over 5" deep, this one fits that bill. The deeper the basket, the deeper the food can drop into the hottest oil for the best cook. This basket is sturdy, well built, and catches very nicely and firmly on the hang bar. Check.4. I DID want a deep fryer that heats to the temperature it is set to. Despite being a simple analog rotary dial, the temperature setting was spot-on. In amassing my deep fry paraphernalia, I also purchased a 5" deep fryer thermometer (really a necessity, in my book). With the fryer visually set to 350, after about 15 minutes, the near-full oil tank read 350, pretty much on the nose. The oil heated fast and recovered very quickly. For those who are relatively unfamiliar with deep fryers experiencing temperature zones, just lift the basket a few times now and then to mix the oil. That's the key to achieving a uniform oil temperature throughout the oil tank. If you're concerned about the built-in thermostat on your deep fryer being attached to the element, so not accurately heating your oil (which pretty much all are) MIX THE OIL! Just do so gently, please. No hot oil splashes allowed.Fast heating and consistent, accurate oil temperature? Check.4. I DID want a unit with a dedicated heating element cover. I had read reviews by some folks who had to use a small cooling rack or other device to serve as an element cover that prevents food items and/or the basket from contacting the heating element. Check.5. I DID want to purchase from a company with good customer service. I reached out to Crosson support regarding their warranty and received a same-day response. It's one year; they'll evaluate the issue and respond in a (presumably) helpful fashion. They appear to be a Chinese business entity, so caveat emptor where doing business with Chinese businesses presents personal sensitivities. Check.Is this countertop fryer on the pricey side for its size? Perhaps. But "pricey" is a relative value proposition, different for everyone. I think this fryer is very well built, is of modest but very adequate size and performs well. I can't imagine anyone being unhappy with it, unless of course you happen to get a Monday morning/Friday afternoon lemon - which can happen with ANY mass-produced commodity. This of course assumes they have the Monday/Friday thing going on in China, which they very well may NOT. Fact is, this unit could easily do light commercial duty. I wouldn't chance that with one of the common branded countertop deep fryers selling for similar prices.Bottom line: if you're in the market for a smallish, countertop deep fryer, the Crosson Catering Equipment Company hits the note with this 10 lb unit. It's perfect for the occasional family fish fry, deep frying your favorite treats, chicken fried steak (our maiden dish with this fryer), shrimp, etc. Next up will be french fries today (pro tip: after soaking cut fries in cold water prior to frying, zap them in the microwave for 3-4 minutes to drive off much of the water).
