Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed all around the world. However, in recent years, a new contender has entered the scene: broasted chicken. Boasting is a cooking method that combines pressure cooking and deep frying to create a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.
In this article, we will compare broasted and fried chicken, examining their differences in taste, nutrition, preparation, and cost, to help you decide which one is the better option for you.
Broasting Chicken
Broasting is a cooking method that was first developed in the 1950s by the Broaster Company, which holds the trademark for the term “broasting”. The process involves marinating the chicken in a special seasoning blend, coating it with flour, and then cooking it in a pressure fryer. The result is a crispy, golden-brown exterior that is similar to fried chicken, but with a moister, more tender interior.
What is broasting?
Broasting is a patented cooking method that combines pressure cooking and deep frying to create a juicy and crispy chicken. The process involves marinating the chicken in a seasoning blend, coating it with flour, and then cooking it in a pressure fryer. The pressure fryer seals in the moisture, resulting in a moist and flavorful chicken.
The broasting process
The broasting process starts with marinating the chicken in a seasoned buttermilk mixture for several hours. The chicken is then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and placed in a pressure fryer. The pressure fryer cooks the chicken at high temperature and pressure, which seals in the moisture and creates a crispy exterior. The chicken is ready in about 20 minutes, making it a quicker cooking option than traditional frying.
Advantages of broasting chicken
- Healthier option – Broasted chicken is considered to be a healthier option than fried chicken as it has less fat and calories. The pressure cooking process seals in the moisture and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil, resulting in a less greasy product.
- Quicker cooking time – Broasting chicken is a quicker cooking option than traditional frying. The pressure cooking process cooks the chicken in about 20 minutes, which is significantly less than the time it takes to fry the chicken.
- Retains more moisture and flavor – The pressure cooking process seals in the moisture and flavor of the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful product.
Disadvantages of broasting chicken
- Requires special equipment – Broasting requires a special pressure fryer, which can be expensive to purchase and maintain.
- Can be more expensive – Broasting equipment can be more expensive than traditional frying equipment, and the process may require additional costs such as the cost of the seasoned flour and buttermilk mixture.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries. The process involves coating the chicken in flour or batter and deep frying it until it is crispy and golden brown.
What is fried chicken?
Fried chicken is a classic dish that involves coating the chicken in flour or batter and deep frying it until it is crispy and golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior that is flavorful and juicy on the inside.
The frying process
The frying process involves coating the chicken in flour or batter and then deep frying it in hot oil until it is crispy and golden brown. The chicken is typically cooked in a deep fryer or a cast-iron skillet.
Advantages of fried chicken
- Crispy texture – Fried chicken has a crispy texture that is hard to replicate with other cooking methods.
- Can be made with simple equipment – Fried chicken can be made with simple equipment, such as a deep fryer or a cast-iron skillet, which is more readily available and less expensive than a pressure fryer.
- Affordable option – Fried chicken is often a more affordable option than broasted chicken, as it requires less specialized equipment and ingredients.
Disadvantages of fried chicken
- Higher in calories and fat – Fried chicken is higher in calories and fat than broasted chicken, as it absorbs more oil during the frying process.
- Can be more time-consuming – Frying chicken can be a more time-consuming process, as the chicken may need to be cooked in batches, and the oil needs to be heated to the correct temperature before frying.
- Can be more difficult to get the perfect texture – Frying chicken can be a bit of an art, as the chicken needs to be cooked to the perfect temperature to ensure that it is cooked through but not overcooked.
Broasted vs. Fried Chicken: Comparison
When comparing broasted and fried chicken, there are a few factors to consider, including taste, nutrition, preparation, and cost.
Taste comparison
Broasted chicken and fried chicken both have a crispy exterior, but the broasted chicken tends to have a moister and more flavorful interior due to the pressure cooking process. Fried chicken can be crispy, but it may not have the same level of juiciness and flavor as broasted chicken.
Nutritional comparison
Broasted chicken is generally considered to be a healthier option than fried chicken, as it is lower in calories and fat. Fried chicken can be high in calories and fat, particularly if it is made with a batter or coating that is high in fat or if it is cooked in oil that is not at the correct temperature.
Preparation and cooking time comparison
Broasting chicken is generally a quicker cooking option than frying, as it can be cooked in about 20 minutes. Frying chicken can take longer, particularly if the chicken needs to be cooked in batches.
Cost comparison
Broasting equipment can be more expensive than frying equipment, and the process may require additional costs such as the cost of the seasoned flour and buttermilk mixture. Fried chicken can be a more affordable option, as it requires less specialized equipment and ingredients.
Conclusion
When it comes to broasted vs. fried chicken, both options have their pros and cons. Broasting chicken is generally considered to be a healthier and quicker cooking option, but it requires specialized equipment and can be more expensive.
Fried chicken is a classic and affordable option that is loved by many, but it can be higher in calories and fat and may require more time to prepare. Ultimately, the choice between broasting and frying will depend on personal preference, cooking skills, and available equipment.
