Cooking basics...
Tips for Deep-Frying 
* The oil must reach a good temperature to brown the exterior of   the food quickly while cooking it. That temperature is almost   always between 350F and 375F degrees. To be sure the oil is   right use a frying thermometer.
* Use canola oil for frying. It is low in saturated fat, has a  high burning point, and does not detract from the flavor of  the food you are frying.
* Avoid crowding food that is deep-fat-fried. The food must be  surrounded by bubbling oil, and you must keep the temperature  from falling too much. If you add too much food to a small
  amount of oil, the temperature will plummet, and the food will  wind up greasy and soggy.
* Never fill the pot more than halfway with oil; this will  prevent bubbling over when the food is added.
* Dry food well with paper towels before adding to the pot;  it helps reduce splattering.
Cooking basics....