What is a common characteristic of items cooked in the fryer?

Items cooked in the fryer are predominantly frozen before they undergo the frying process. This is because many menu items like french fries, onion rings, and chicken tenders are typically pre-prepared, flash-frozen by manufacturers to maintain quality, and ensure consistent cooking results. By starting with frozen items, the food maintains its structure and moisture during frying, ensuring a desirable texture and flavor when served. The use of frozen items in frying also helps streamline kitchen operations; they can be stored for longer periods while still ensuring food safety and quality.

On the other hand, while some items might be fresh, the practice of frying often involves items that are specifically designed for that method of cooking, which is usually not the case for all foods. Additionally, all fried items are commonly deep-fried using oil, which cannot be excluded in the cooking process, as it is essential for creating the crispy texture that frying is known for.