Pitco Fryers: Commercial Catering Equipment
Frying dates back to the early days of cooking in a receptacle. In ancient times, people discovered that meats placed before an open fire in an earthen platter retained their juices. Consequently, these meats were more tasty and satisfying. The natural fat near the surface of the animal’s flesh melted into the dish, creating a frying effect. Eventually, they applied heat below the dish, cooking the food in the accumulation of natural fats. Soon, someone discovered that cooking in previously rendered and collected fat was effective. Thus, deep fat frying became an established practice. The original shallow spider, skillet, or fry pan became deeper, evolving into the French fry pot, a standard kitchen item.
The Evolution of Frying with Pitco
In 1918, J. C. Pitman and Sons Hotel & Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers sought a better frying method. They made critical discoveries, including the importance of keeping small food particles away from the kettle’s intense heat. As a result, this improved the quality of fried food. They invented the Pitco Frialator based on this principle and patented it. This invention changed deep fat frying completely. Tubes running through the fat container heated the medium. This design allowed food sediment to drip below the heating tubes into a cool zone, thus preventing carbonization and breakdown of the frying fat.
This construction reduced fat costs significantly, outweighing the initial equipment cost, depreciation, and upkeep. Thanks to thousands of Pitco Frialators in use nationwide, deep fat frying has become an art form. Consequently, the innovation by Pitco not only enhanced frying methods but also improved the overall quality and cost-effectiveness of frying in commercial kitchens.
Pitco’s developments have made a substantial impact on the culinary world. Their commitment to innovation and quality continues to benefit the food service industry. As a result, Pitco remains a trusted name in commercial catering equipment, leading the way in efficient and reliable frying solutions.