Deep-Frying Pizza Rolls: How Long Should You Fry?

Deep-fried pizza rolls are a quick and easy snack that can be made in under 30 minutes. The cooking time depends on how crispy you like your pizza rolls. If you like them extra crispy, then you’ll want to fry them for a longer period. If you prefer them to be soft and doughy, then you’ll want to fry them for a shorter period. As a general rule of thumb, you should fry pizza rolls for about 2–3 minutes, or until they are golden brown. However, some recipes suggest frying them for up to 5–9 minutes.

Choosing a deep fryer

Deep fryers are a great way to cook pizza rolls, yielding a crispy and golden-brown exterior with a hot and gooey interior. If you're thinking of purchasing a deep fryer, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs.

Firstly, it's important to look for a model with adjustable temperature settings. This will give you greater control over the cooking process, allowing you to achieve the desired crispiness and colour. A model with a basket is also recommended, as it makes it much easier to safely lower and lift the pizza rolls into and out of the hot oil.

Deep fryers come in various sizes, so consider how much food you typically cook at once. A larger deep fryer will allow you to cook more pizza rolls in one go, but it will also take up more counter and storage space. If you only plan on cooking for yourself or a small group, a smaller deep fryer may be more suitable.

When choosing a deep fryer, also consider the type of oil you will be using. Vegetable oil and canola oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points, allowing them to withstand the high temperatures required for deep frying without breaking down. Ensure your chosen deep fryer can accommodate the amount of oil needed to fully submerge the pizza rolls.

Finally, always prioritise safety when working with hot oil. Look for a deep fryer with safety features such as a lid to prevent splattering and a long handle to keep your hands away from the hot oil. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and keep children and pets away from the deep fryer when in use.

With these considerations in mind, you can choose a deep fryer that suits your needs and safely enjoy delicious, crispy pizza rolls cooked to perfection.

Selecting the right oil

Smoke Point:

The smoke point of an oil is a critical factor to consider. This refers to the temperature at which the oil starts to break down and produce smoke. Oils with higher smoke points are ideal for deep frying as they can withstand the high temperatures required without burning. Look for oils with smoke points above 350°F (175°C). Some excellent options include:

• Canola oil: A popular choice due to its neutral flavor, low saturated fat content, and high smoke point (350-400°F). It's also affordable and versatile.
• Vegetable oil: A blend of different plant oils, providing an affordable and versatile option. While the exact smoke point varies depending on the blend, it typically falls between 400-450°F.
• Peanut oil: With a smoke point of 425-450°F, peanut oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to your fried pizza rolls. However, be cautious if you or your guests have peanut allergies.
• Safflower oil: This oil has a high smoke point suitable for deep frying, but its flavor profile is less commonly mentioned.

High Heat Stability:

Deep frying involves high temperatures, so you need an oil that can withstand the heat without breaking down or oxidizing. Oils with high levels of monounsaturated fats, such as canola or peanut oil, offer excellent heat stability.

Neutral Flavor:

The oil you choose will influence the flavor of your pizza rolls. While some oils have a neutral taste, others impart a distinct flavor. If you want the natural flavors of your pizza rolls to shine through, opt for oils with neutral flavors, such as canola oil. However, if you're feeling adventurous, try peanut oil for a nutty twist or olive oil for a fruity, robust kick.

Fat Content:

Deep frying has a reputation for being unhealthy, but choosing an oil with a healthier fat profile can make a difference. Opt for oils lower in saturated fats and higher in monounsaturated fats, like canola oil or sunflower oil. These options will result in crispy, golden pizza rolls without compromising on health.

Cost:

The cost of oil can add up, especially if you're deep-frying large batches of pizza rolls. Oils like canola, soybean, and vegetable are generally more affordable, making them excellent choices for frequent frying. On the other hand, avocado oil, while having a high smoke point and a mildly sweet and buttery flavor, tends to be more expensive.

Allergies:

Be mindful of potential allergens when selecting an oil. If you or your guests have peanut allergies, steer clear of peanut oil. Instead, opt for alternative oils like canola or soybean oil, which are generally safe for most individuals.

Now that you've selected the right oil, you're ready to fry up some mouth-watering pizza rolls! Remember to heat your oil to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C), and always exercise caution when working with hot oil. Enjoy your crispy, golden, and perfectly fried pizza rolls!

Prepping the pizza rolls

Before frying your pizza rolls, there are a few steps you should take to ensure the best results.

Firstly, decide whether you want to make your pizza rolls from scratch or use store-bought dough. If you're short on time, store-bought dough is a great option, and you can even use egg roll wrappers as a substitute. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own dough, but this will add to your prep time.

Once you have your dough, it's time to prepare the filling. A classic combination is pepperoni and cheese with a touch of pizza or pasta sauce. You can use shredded mozzarella, ricotta, or a combination of both for a creamy, stretchy texture. If you're concerned about the grease from regular pepperoni, opt for turkey pepperoni as a less oily alternative.

Now it's time to assemble your pizza rolls. Cut the dough into equal pieces and roll them out into circles, just like you would for mini pizzas. On half of each dough circle, layer your chosen fillings, being careful not to overfill. You can also experiment with different fillings like sausage, vegetables, or even dessert-inspired options. Just make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent any filling from leaking out during frying.

If you're using egg roll wrappers, lay one wrapper on your work surface and place a tablespoon of filling in the centre, leaving a small border on each side. Brush the wrapper edges with an egg mixture, fold over both sides, and roll it up to seal in the filling. Repeat this process until you've used up all your wrappers and filling.

At this point, your pizza rolls are almost ready for the fryer. If you prefer a softer filling, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Just be careful not to let them thaw completely if they were frozen.

Heating the deep fryer

Before turning on your deep fryer, it's important to select the right type of oil. Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points, allowing them to withstand the high temperatures required for frying without breaking down. Fill your deep fryer with enough oil to completely submerge the pizza rolls.

Once you've chosen your oil and filled the deep fryer, it's time to plug in the appliance and set the temperature. The recommended temperature for frying pizza rolls is typically around 350°F (175°C). This temperature setting will ensure that your pizza rolls cook through evenly and achieve the desired crispiness. While the deep fryer is heating up, it's a good idea to line a plate or tray with paper towels. This will be the resting place for your freshly fried pizza rolls, allowing any excess oil to drip off and helping to achieve a less greasy final product.

It's important to be patient and wait for the oil to reach the desired temperature before proceeding. Depending on the model of your deep fryer, this may take several minutes. Some deep fryers have indicator lights or alerts to let you know when the oil has reached the set temperature.

Once the oil reaches the correct temperature, you are ready to carefully lower the pizza rolls into the hot oil. It's important not to overcrowd the fryer, as this can cause the rolls to stick together and affect the evenness of cooking. Use the basket or a slotted spoon to gently place the pizza rolls into the oil.

Now that you've heated the deep fryer and added the pizza rolls, it's just a matter of waiting for them to cook. The frying time will depend on your preference for crispiness. For a softer, doughier texture, fry the pizza rolls for a shorter period, around 2-3 minutes. If you prefer them extra crispy, you'll want to fry them for a bit longer, up to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on the pizza rolls during this process, as they can go from golden brown to burnt quite quickly. Use a slotted spoon to gently flip them if needed to ensure even cooking on all sides.

In summary, heating the deep fryer is a critical step in the process of making delicious deep-fried pizza rolls. By selecting the right oil, setting the appropriate temperature, and allowing the oil to heat up sufficiently, you can ensure that your pizza rolls turn out perfectly crispy and golden brown. Remember to exercise caution when working with hot oil, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your deep fryer to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Frying the pizza rolls

Once you've gathered and prepared your ingredients, it's time to start frying your pizza rolls. This section will outline the steps and considerations for achieving the perfect deep-fried pizza rolls.

Choosing Your Deep Fryer

If you don't already own a deep fryer, you can purchase one from a kitchen supply store or online. Opt for a model with adjustable temperature settings to give you greater control over the cooking process. Additionally, a deep fryer with a basket will make it easier to safely lower and lift the pizza rolls in and out of the hot oil.

Selecting the Right Oil

The type of oil you use can significantly impact the taste and texture of your pizza rolls. Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points, allowing them to withstand high frying temperatures without breaking down. Fill your deep fryer with enough oil to completely submerge the pizza rolls for an even cook.

Heating the Deep Fryer

Before you begin frying, plug in your deep fryer and set the temperature to the recommended level for frying, typically around 350°F (175°C). As the oil heats up, line a plate or tray with paper towels to provide a landing spot for the crispy pizza rolls once they're done frying.

When the oil reaches the desired temperature, it's time to carefully lower the pizza rolls into the hot oil using the basket. Avoid overcrowding the fryer, as this can cause the rolls to stick together. Fry the pizza rolls for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color. Keep a close eye on them, and use a slotted spoon to gently flip them if needed.

Draining and Serving

Once your pizza rolls have reached the perfect golden crispiness, use the basket or a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Allow any excess oil to drip back into the fryer before transferring the rolls to your prepared plate or tray lined with paper towels. This step helps to remove any extra oil, ensuring your pizza rolls are crispy rather than greasy.

Enjoying Your Deep-Fried Pizza Rolls

The moment you've been waiting for—it's time to savor your deep-fried pizza rolls! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you prefer marinara, ranch, or something more adventurous, the choice is yours. Enjoy the contrast of a crunchy exterior and a hot, cheesy interior—pizza roll perfection!

Frequently asked questions