DeLonghi D14522DZ Stainless Steel Deep Fat Fryer

Deep fat frying doesn't get much simpler or convenient than the DeLonghi D14522DZ Stainless Steel Deep Fat Fryer. High-tech wizardry has been replaced with a mechanical twist style temperature control and DeLonghi's front mounted oil drain valve. Throw in a family friendly 3lb frying capacity and modern stainless steel styling and you have a fryer that will be a firm favorite in any home.

Before we get started be aware that the D14522DZ is designed for a typically family of four to six people. To cook anything you are going to need a gallon of cooking oil. On the plus side this large volume will help maintain an even oil temperature throughout the frying process. This is crucial if you want to avoid things like soggy fries. Just remember to set aside at least 15 minutes for the oil to reach the correct temperature.

Operation is simplicity itself. There is only one control which consists of a very low-tech mechanical temperature dial. Set it to the desired temperature and wait for the green light. At that point you're ready to start frying. When finished return the dial to the off position. We found the temperature setting to be quite accurate and the cooked items were crisp on the outside and moist on the inside.

Changing the cooking oil on a deep fat fryer has always been a problem for most owners. DeLonghi have attempted to solve this by equipping the D14522DZ with their 'Easy Clean' feature. A small access door opens on the front of the fryer and behind there is a drain tap. When it's time to change the oil you just position a suitable container directly below the tap and open to drain. For the most part it works pretty well although you may need to tip the fryer forward slightly to collect all the remaining oil.

For clean-up the unit disassembles easily and everything except the heating element can be placed in the dishwasher.

It's a pity this attention to detail doesn't extend to everything else on this model. For example, the magnetic power cord at the back is prone to falling off at the slightest jolt. Also the bracket that attaches the heating element the housing is a flimsy plastic. If it breaks you're only option is to by a new one.

If you were planning on storing the oil in the fryer between uses be aware that the basket handle folds forward into the oil chamber when not in use. You will have to either store the basket separately or leave the handle extended.

The DZ in the model name stands for 'Dual Zone'. DeLonghi claim this technology reduces odor, keeps the oil clean, and prevents food from burning. It basically consists of a area below the heating element that remains at a lower temperature than the oil above. During frying food particles fall harmlessly into this area where they remain until it's time for an oil change.

The DeLonghi D14522DZ Deep Fat Fryer will appeal to anyone that wants the sleek modern look of stainless steel but without the confusing hi-tech controls.

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