Frying food is a mesmerizing process that delights the senses, from the sizzle of oil to the golden brown perfection of the final product. But have you ever considered frying in salt? TikTok videos showcasing this unique cooking method have taken the internet by storm, with millions of views and intrigued followers.
Roice Bethel, a popular cooking creator, gained viral fame when he shared a video of himself frying chips and popcorn in a pan filled with salt. The mesmerizing clip showed popcorn kernels transforming into fluffy snacks within seconds, sparking curiosity and questions from viewers. Many were surprised by this unconventional cooking technique, with one commenter even admitting that they had never heard of deep-frying in salt before.
While Bethel may have popularized frying in salt on social media, this method is not a new invention. In fact, hot salt frying, and its counterpart hot sand frying, have been used for centuries in various Asian countries as a more affordable and convenient alternative to frying in oil.
So, how does hot salt frying work? Instead of using oil to transfer heat to the food, salt or sand is used to evenly distribute heat on all sides of the ingredients. Just like testing the temperature of oil before frying, it’s essential to gauge if the salt is at the right temperature for cooking. You can only hot salt fry in vessels with a high heat capacity, such as cast iron or carbon steel, to avoid damaging nonstick surfaces.
When it comes to choosing the right salt for frying, coarse salt is recommended for its ability to evenly coat the ingredients and prevent moisture absorption. It’s crucial to fry only completely dry items in salt to avoid oversalting and ensure crispiness. This method is commonly used by street vendors in countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, China, and India, where it is a cost-effective and controllable cooking process.
In India, sand frying is a traditional technique used to roast sweet potatoes and make popcorn on the streets. Frying in salt is more budget-friendly than using oil, while frying in sand is even more cost-effective. Ingredients like fryums, chestnuts, and peanuts are often fried in sand or salt by street vendors in these countries, showcasing the versatility and practicality of this cooking method.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of hot salt or sand frying, why not start with something simple like popcorn? Experimenting with this ancient cooking technique can add a new dimension to your culinary skills and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen. So, grab a pan, some salt, and your favorite ingredients, and get ready to embark on a flavorful and visually captivating cooking adventure. The Evolution of Technology in the 21st Century
Over the past two decades, technology has advanced at an unprecedented rate, revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact with one another. From the rise of smartphones and social media to the development of artificial intelligence and virtual reality, the 21st century has seen an explosion of innovation that has transformed every aspect of our daily lives.
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