If you’re in the business of catering, you know that things can get hectic. It’s a good idea to be prepared, and one way to do that is by keeping an up-to-date checklist of all the tools and food storage present in your kitchen.
The tools you need depend on the type of restaurant you run, but there are certain staples that every chef should have in their arsenal. From kitchen equipment to utensils, these tools will make you a pro at serving up food and drink.
Dinnerware
Whether you’re planning on opening a restaurant or just starting to cater at home, you’ll need dinnerware. Not only does this help to serve food and provide utensils, but it also helps to create the overall mood and feel of the dining experience.
There are many types of dishes available, from basic white to specialized sets for special occasions. The choice will depend on what cuisine you’re serving and how you want the table to look.
Porcelain and bone china are two popular options. They’re made from fine-particle clay that is fired at a higher temperature to create durable and nonporous dinnerware.
Both are dishwasher-, oven- and microwave-safe unless the china has gold or silver accents that are not recommended for these appliances. You should also avoid using lemon or citrus-based detergents in the dishwasher, which can damage metal accents over time.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are a vital tool for catering businesses. Without these devices, your restaurant’s dishes, glasses and cutlery can be unclean, which could have a negative impact on your reputation.
The importance of dishwashers is particularly strong in the fast-paced dining landscape of contemporary times. A lack of clean dishes could result in customers not wanting to return or taking their business elsewhere.
Dishwashers are also a cost-effective and time-saving solution for restaurants to ensure their dishes, glassware and cutlery are washed correctly and are ready to be served to customers. They can wash large quantities of dishes, glassware and cutlery in less time than hand washing, sanitising them while they are in the machine.
Trucks & Dollies
The Tools And Food Storage Present In Catering Is Essential
As a restaurant or food-service operator, you are constantly transporting items from one area to another. Whether you are transporting food, equipment, or inventory, the right tools will help your employees work more efficiently and safely.
Commercial dollies, hand trucks, and platform carts are a great addition to any catering operation. These types of transport equipment are designed to make moving heavy or bulky items a breeze and reduce the risk of injuries to your employees.
A milk crate dolly is a handy tool for transporting large quantities of milk, cream, and other dairy products from your delivery truck to the kitchen or refrigerator. These units have four casters that allow your staff to maneuver around tight corners and through smaller spaces with ease.
Food Storage
Food storage is essential in catering, as it prolongs the life of food, extending the time that it can be eaten and avoiding the risk of a foodborne illness. Using airtight containers and restricting airflow helps to preserve the quality of foods while also eliminating the potential for cross-contamination.
There are four main types of food storage: refrigeration, freezing, canning, and food preservation. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs before choosing one.
A common practice in restaurants is to rotate stock, or FIFO (first-in, first-out). This means that old foods are used before new ones and can help reduce the amount of food waste in the kitchen.