How to Make the Perfect Fried Bread

Few things bring comfort to the breakfast table quite like a golden, crisp slice of fried bread. 

It’s a classic of the Great British fry-up, often considered indulgent, but when done properly, it’s a thing of beauty. 

Perfect fried bread should be crisp on the outside, soft inside, and full of flavour without being greasy. Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance.

Choosing the Right Bread

Start with the bread itself — it makes all the difference.

Type: Medium-thick slices of white bread are traditional, but a good-quality farmhouse loaf or sourdough adds a touch of sophistication. Avoid pre-sliced supermarket bread that’s too thin, as it will soak up oil and potentially become soggy. Medium or thick sliced bread should be OK.

Fresh or Stale? Slightly stale bread (a day old) works best, as it absorbs less fat while still crisping up beautifully.

Picking Your Fat

This is where opinions become passionate. The fat you use will define the flavour.

Dripping: Traditionalists swear by beef dripping — it gives unbeatable flavour and crispness.

Lard: Another old-school favourite that fries evenly and crisps beautifully.

Oil: For a lighter option, use vegetable, sunflower, or rapeseed oil.

Butter: Adds a wonderful richness, but burns easily, so keep the heat low or mix it with oil to prevent scorching.

The Method: Step by Step

Heat the Pan:

Use a heavy frying pan and heat your chosen fat over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the bread hits the pan, but not smoking.

Add the Bread:

Lay the slice in the pan. Don’t move it around — let it sit and develop a golden crust.

Press Gently:

Using a spatula, press the bread lightly to ensure even contact with the pan.

Flip Once:

When the underside is golden brown and crisp (after 1–2 minutes), flip it. Fry the other side for about the same time.

Drain:

Remove and place on kitchen paper for a few seconds to absorb any excess fat.

Serving Suggestions

Fried bread is a star on its own, but it’s also the perfect sidekick to:

A full English breakfast, eggs, sausages, bacon, baked beans, and mushrooms.

Poached eggs and tomatoes, for a lighter twist.

Brown sauce or ketchup, depending on your loyalties.

Or even as a base for a quick lunch, topped with mashed avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or melted cheese.

Tips for Perfection

Temperature control is key, too cool and the bread soaks up fat; too hot and it burns.

Don’t overload the pan, fry one or two slices at a time for best results.

Season lightly with salt and pepper just before serving to enhance the flavour.

A Final Word

Fried bread might seem simple, but it’s an art that’s easy to master with the right ingredients and care. Whether you’re making a full English breakfast or a late-night comfort snack, a perfectly fried slice adds that irresistible crunch and nostalgia that only true comfort food can deliver.

Baked vs Fried Snacks: Which Is Better for You?

When it comes to choosing between baked and fried snacks, the decision is often framed around health versus indulgence. 

Fried snacks are known for their crispy texture and rich flavour, while baked options are marketed as the healthier alternative. 

But how much of that is really true? Let’s take a closer look at both options to determine which might be better for you, and when.

The Basics: What’s the Difference?

Fried snacks are cooked in hot oil, often at high temperatures. This includes crisps, chips, doughnuts, and pakoras. The oil not only cooks the food quickly but also adds significant calories and fat.

Baked snacks are cooked using dry heat in an oven, meaning little or no oil is used. Think baked crisps, puffed grain snacks, crackers, and certain cereal bars.

Nutritional Comparison

Category Fried Snacks Baked Snacks

Calories Generally higher due to oil Often lower, especially if oil-free

Fat High in saturated and trans fats Lower fat content overall

Crunch/Flavour Crispy, rich, often addictive. Can be drier but lighter

Shelf Life Shorter (unless heavily processed) Usually longer

Are Baked Snacks Healthier?

In many cases, yes. Baked snacks tend to have:

Lower total fat and fewer calories.

Less risk of containing trans fats, which are known to raise bad cholesterol and lower the good kind.

Less greasy residue and fewer empty calories.

However, not all baked snacks are created equal. Some are high in salt, sugar, or refined flour, and might not be much healthier than their fried counterparts.

But Don’t Dismiss Fried Snacks Entirely…

Fried snacks aren't inherently evil. In moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet. Homemade versions,like air-fried potato wedges or shallow-fried samosas—allow better control over oil type and quantity.

Also, some nutrients, like fat-soluble vitamins, are better absorbed with fat. A small amount of healthy fat (like olive or rapeseed oil) in cooking isn't always a bad thing.

Baking Innovations: The Rise of Air-Frying

Air fryers have revolutionised home cooking, offering a middle ground. They “fry” food with hot air and minimal oil, giving that crisp texture without the grease. It’s a popular way to enjoy chips or battered treats with significantly reduced fat.

So, Which Is Better?

For everyday snacking:

Baked snacks are generally the better choice, especially those with whole grains, seeds, or legumes and minimal additives.

For occasional indulgence:

Fried snacks can have a place, just aim for smaller portions and choose healthier oils when cooking at home.

Top Tips for Smarter Snacking

Check nutrition labels—don’t be fooled by “baked” alone.

Watch out for salt and sugar levels in both varieties.

Opt for snacks with fibre and protein to feel fuller for longer.

DIY your own snacks when possible, oven-roast chickpeas or make kale crisps for a healthy crunch.

Final Thoughts

The choice between baked and fried snacks doesn’t have to be black and white. It’s all about balance, awareness, and quality. Baked snacks often win on the health front, but an occasional fried treat, especially one you’ve made yourself, is nothing to feel guilty about.

What’s your go-to snack? Baked or fried? Let us know in the comments below!