Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer Review: The Unvarnished Truth About This Stovetop Classic

There’s a certain magic to a proper, homemade chip. Not the oven-baked kind, and not even the impressively crisp results from a modern air fryer. I’m talking about the real deal: hand-cut potatoes, plunged into shimmering hot oil, emerging golden, fluffy on the inside, and shatteringly crisp on the outside. It’s a nostalgic flavour that transports many of us back to childhood kitchens. For years, the humble stovetop chip pan was the undisputed king of this culinary ritual. In a world now dominated by digital, multi-function kitchen gadgets, we found ourselves asking: does a simple, no-frills stovetop fryer like the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer still have a place on our hobs? We decided to find out, putting this enamel-on-steel classic through its paces to see if its traditional simplicity can outperform, or at least hold its own, in the modern era.

What to Consider Before Buying a Stovetop Deep Fat Fryer

A stovetop deep fat fryer is more than just a pot; it’s a key solution for achieving that authentic, deep-fried texture that other cooking methods struggle to replicate. Its primary benefit lies in its direct-heat approach, giving the user complete manual control over the cooking process. Unlike electric models that take up precious counter space and can be cumbersome to store, a stovetop fryer is compact, often doubling as a regular stockpot, and offers a straightforward, back-to-basics cooking experience. It’s about reconnecting with the cooking process, relying on sight, sound, and experience to fry foods to perfection without the interruption of beeps and digital timers.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who craves the unparalleled taste of traditional deep-fried food, has confidence working with hot oil on a hob, and appreciates minimalist kitchen tools that do one job exceptionally well. It’s perfect for the home cook who makes chips, doughnuts, or fried chicken infrequently enough that a large electric unit feels like an unnecessary extravagance. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who are nervous about managing oil temperatures manually, have young children and prioritize enclosed safety features, or require the precise, set-and-forget convenience of a modern electric fryer. For these users, an electric deep fryer or a high-capacity air fryer might be a more fitting choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: While more compact than electric fryers, a stovetop model still requires a stable, level hob surface large enough to prevent accidental knocks. Consider the fryer’s diameter and height, ensuring it fits your largest burner for even heating. You also need to account for safe storage space away from daily kitchen traffic, as the pot and oily basket need a dedicated home.
• Capacity/Performance: A 5-litre capacity, like that offered by the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer, is generous and well-suited for cooking for a family of four to six in a single batch. Performance is directly tied to the power of your hob. A powerful gas or electric hob will bring the oil to temperature quickly, while a weaker one will result in longer heat-up and recovery times between batches, which can lead to greasy food.
• Materials & Durability: The material is paramount for heat distribution and longevity. Enamel on steel, as used in this model, is designed to be non-reactive, easy to clean, and offer decent heat retention. However, the quality of the enamel coating is critical; a poor-quality finish can chip or crack, exposing the steel beneath to rust. Alternatives like stainless steel are more resistant to scratches, while cast iron offers superior heat retention but is much heavier and requires more maintenance.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Simplicity is the hallmark of a stovetop fryer. Look for features like a well-fitting lid to prevent splatters and a sturdy, easy-to-handle basket. For maintenance, a dishwasher-safe pot is a significant advantage. However, pay close attention to the basket material; cheaper metals can rust quickly, completely negating the convenience of a dishwasher-safe pot and creating a long-term hassle.

While the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer is a classic choice for traditionalists, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the modern competition. For a broader look at all the top cooking gadgets, including healthier alternatives, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer

Upon unboxing the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer, our initial impression was one of classic simplicity. The deep black enamel pot has a timeless, functional aesthetic that looks right at home on any stove. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 0.9 kilograms, making it easy to handle, even when filled with oil. The package is straightforward: the enamel pot, a wire frying basket, and a thermo-resistant Pyrex glass lid. There’s no complex assembly required; it’s ready to wash and use straight out of the box.

The glass lid is a nice touch, allowing you to see the contents when using the pot as a casserole dish, a feature that adds a layer of versatility. However, as we examined the components more closely, some immediate concerns emerged, echoing sentiments we’d seen from other users. The wire basket felt somewhat flimsy, and we noted the edges where the wire was joined were not perfectly smooth. We could immediately see how these rough spots could potentially scratch the enamel interior if not handled with extreme care. This initial observation was a red flag, hinting that the product’s long-term durability might hinge on delicate handling rather than robust construction.

Putting the Premier Fryer to the Test: From Golden Chips to Glaring Flaws

A product’s true worth is only revealed through hands-on testing. We took the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer from the box to the kitchen, using it to cook everything from traditional chips to battered fish and doughnuts. While it delivered on the fundamental promise of deep-frying, our experience was overshadowed by significant concerns about its construction and long-term viability. The journey was a mix of satisfying results and disappointing revelations that any potential buyer needs to be aware of.

Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Halves

At first glance, the design is appealingly retro. The black enamel pot is sleek and looks the part. But as we spent more time with it, the initial charm gave way to serious concerns about the build quality. The enamel coating, which should be the product’s shield, feels worryingly thin. This aligns directly with a multitude of user reports we analysed, where customers received their fryer with pre-existing chips and scratches inside the pot. We found that even the slightest tap from a metal utensil felt risky.

The most significant design flaw, in our expert opinion, is the frying basket. While essential for functionality, its construction isappalling. The metal is flimsy, and the basket we received had several sharp, unfinished edges. As one user correctly pointed out, these sharp edges are the pot’s worst enemy, scraping and scratching through the delicate enamel coating with every use. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue; once the enamel is breached, the steel beneath is exposed to oil and water, leading to rust and further flaking. It’s a self-destructive design. During our tests, we had to be incredibly careful when lowering and raising the basket to avoid causing damage, which is not what you want from a tool designed for “durable everyday use”. Furthermore, reports from other users of defective handles leaking a black liquid during heating point to a catastrophic failure in quality control and a serious safety hazard. It’s clear that while the concept is sound, the execution is severely lacking, which is a major disappointment when you see the potential in its simple design.

Frying Performance and Hob Compatibility

When it comes to the primary function—frying—the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer can, admittedly, produce excellent results. On our gas hob, the oil came up to temperature relatively quickly, and the pot’s wide, deep shape provided ample room for food to cook without being crowded. The first batch of chips we made was fantastic; they were evenly cooked, golden brown, and delightfully crispy. As one happy user exclaimed, it produces “REAL chips yum yum,” and on that front, we wholeheartedly agree. The 5-litre capacity is genuinely useful, allowing us to cook a large portion for four people without needing to fry in multiple batches, which is a huge time-saver.

However, the performance section comes with a major caveat: hob compatibility. The fryer is made of enamel on steel, which technically should make it compatible with all hob types, including induction. Yet, we found a credible report from a user who stated it simply did not work on their induction hob, forcing them to return it. This suggests a potential inconsistency in the manufacturing process, perhaps a base that is too thin or not perfectly flat, preventing the magnetic connection required for induction cooking. This is a critical failure. If you have an induction hob, purchasing this fryer is a significant gamble. For those with gas or standard electric hobs, it performs its core function well, but the uncertainty around induction compatibility is a glaring issue you can’t ignore when you check out its full feature set.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Long-Term Durability

On paper, maintenance should be simple. The enamel pot is listed as dishwasher safe, a feature we always appreciate for dealing with oily cookware. We ran the pot through our dishwasher, and it came out perfectly clean. The problem, however, lies with the two components that define its long-term durability: the enamel coating and the wire basket. As discussed, the enamel is incredibly fragile. We fear that regular dishwasher use, with its high heat and abrasive detergents, could accelerate the deterioration of an already weak coating, especially if it has been micro-scratched by the basket.

The basket itself is a maintenance nightmare. After our first use, we hand-washed it and left it to air dry. To our dismay, we noticed tiny spots of rust forming in the crevices by the next day. This confirms reports from multiple users, one of whom stated the basket rusted “after a simple enjuague” (a simple rinse) before they even had a chance to use it. A rusting basket is not only unhygienic but also destined for the bin, leaving you with just a pot. This forces you into a meticulous routine of hand-washing and immediately hand-drying the basket, which entirely defeats the purpose of the dishwasher-safe pot. This product’s lifespan appears to be worryingly short. We saw consistent reports of the interior deteriorating completely after 10 months or the enamel cracking within a year of purchase. This isn’t a tool built to last; it’s a product that seems destined for premature failure.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our findings are strongly corroborated by the experiences of other customers. The feedback presents a starkly divided picture, highlighting a severe lack of consistency. On one side, there are users who, like us, initially loved the results. One person stated it was the “best chip pan/fryer ever easily cleaned and bigger than I thought,” capturing the product’s potential when you receive a flawless unit.

However, this positive sentiment is overwhelmed by a chorus of complaints centered on quality control. The issues begin right from delivery, with numerous buyers reporting the fryer arriving with “a chip and a small scratch,” “scratches all at the bottom,” or even a “damaged handle.” The most damning feedback relates to durability. One user, who was initially happy, found the “enamel cracking away” in less than a year despite careful use. The basket is a point of universal scorn, with one detailed review advising others “not to use supplied basket” because its “sharp edges… scratched through the bottom coating and is flaking off.” Another confirmed our findings about rust, noting the basket on two separate units oxidized without a single use. This feedback paints a clear picture of a product with a promising design that is fundamentally let down by poor manufacturing and non-existent quality control.

How Does the Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer Compare to the Competition?

In today’s market, a simple stovetop fryer faces competition from all sides. While it aims for the traditionalist crowd, it’s crucial to see how it stacks up against other modern solutions. We compared it to three distinct alternatives to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your kitchen.

1. Smilcloud 2 Pcs 5.3 Inch Round Air Fryer Silicone Liner

This product isn’t a fryer but an accessory for an entirely different cooking philosophy. The Smilcloud Silicone Liners are for those who have already embraced air frying as a healthier alternative to deep frying. Someone choosing these liners prioritizes convenience, minimal oil usage, and incredibly easy cleanup. They are perfect for cooking smaller portions in an existing air fryer. This is the antithesis of the Premier fryer; it’s about health and simplicity, not the authentic, oil-submerged crispness that only traditional deep frying can provide. If you’re looking for an easier way to use your air fryer, this is a great pickup, but it won’t satisfy a craving for real, pub-style chips.

2. Daewoo Deluxe 17L Halogen Air Fryer Self-Cleaning

The Daewoo Halogen Air Fryer represents the multi-function gadget approach to cooking. With a massive 17L capacity and the ability to fry, roast, bake, and grill, it’s a countertop workhorse. Unlike the Premier’s singular focus, the Daewoo is for the home cook who wants maximum versatility from a single appliance. It uses halogen light and circulating air to cook food with significantly less oil. The adjustable temperature and timer offer a level of control and safety the manual Premier fryer can’t match. This is the choice for large families or individuals who want to explore a wide range of healthier cooking methods and are willing to dedicate the counter space to a large, powerful appliance.

3. Quest 3L Deep Fat Fryer

The Quest 3L Deep Fat Fryer is the most direct competitor, offering the same deep-fried results but in a modern, electric format. Its key advantage is the adjustable thermostat (130-190°C), which provides precise temperature control—something the Premier stovetop model completely lacks. This ensures consistent results and removes the guesswork, making it a safer and more reliable option for beginners. While its 3L capacity is smaller than the Premier’s 5L, it’s often sufficient for smaller families. The Quest is for the user who wants authentic deep-fried flavour but demands the safety, consistency, and convenience of an electric, temperature-controlled unit.

Our Final Verdict: A Promising Concept Plagued by Flaws

The Premier 5L Deep Fat Fryer exists as a frustrating paradox. The core concept is excellent: a large-capacity, simple, and versatile stovetop fryer that produces genuinely delicious, traditional fried foods. When you get a good one, and if you handle it with the utmost care, it can be a joy to use. The generous size is perfect for families, and the ability to pop the main pot in the dishwasher is a welcome convenience.

However, we cannot in good conscience overlook the overwhelming evidence of systemic quality control failures. The risk of receiving a damaged product, the fragility of the enamel coating, and the frankly unacceptable quality of the included frying basket turn this purchase into a lottery. The basket’s tendency to damage the very pot it’s designed to work with is a critical design flaw. While the price point is attractive, the potential for the product to become unusable in under a year makes it a poor long-term investment. If you’re a traditionalist with your heart set on a stovetop pan and are willing to gamble on quality, you might get lucky. For everyone else, the risk of disappointment is simply too high. We recommend exploring a more robustly built stovetop model or considering a reliable electric alternative. If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and still feel it’s the right fit for your kitchen, you can check the latest price and availability here.

Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API