Efficiency is everything in a restaurant kitchen. From prepping ingredients to plating dishes, every step needs to be quick and precise. The right smallwares—tools and utensils used in everyday kitchen tasks—are crucial for smooth and productive operations.
Here are the must-have smallwares that can boost restaurant kitchen efficiency.
1. Plastic Containers for Restaurants
Every kitchen needs a variety of plastic boxes for restaurants to store everything from bulk ingredients to prepped vegetables. Opt for containers with tight-sealing lids to keep food fresh and avoid cross-contamination. They come in various sizes and shapes, making them versatile for different storage needs. Transparent containers help in quickly identifying the contents without having to open them, saving time and maintaining hygiene. They are also lightweight and easy to stack, optimizing your storage space efficiently.
2. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision is key in culinary arts. Measuring cups and spoons ensure ingredients are added in the correct proportions, vital for maintaining consistent flavor and quality in dishes. They come in sets, typically including different measurements, which are essential for both dry and liquid ingredients. Stainless steel or durable plastic options are preferred for their longevity and ease of cleaning. Proper measurement tools can make a significant difference in baking, where precision is crucial for the perfect rise and texture.
3. Mixing Bowls
A set of sturdy mixing bowls is indispensable for preparing marinades, salads, and doughs. Choose sets that nest together to save space. Mixing bowls are available in various materials such as stainless steel, glass, and plastic, each offering unique benefits. Stainless steel bowls are lightweight and durable, glass bowls allow for microwave use, and plastic bowls are cost-effective.
4. Cutting Boards
Color-coded cutting boards help prevent cross-contamination between meats, vegetables, and breads. Materials like bamboo or thick plastic are durable and easy to clean. Each color can represent a different food group, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring food safety. Bamboo boards are eco-friendly and gentle on knife blades, while plastic boards are dishwasher safe and often feature non-slip edges for added safety.
5. Knives and Knife Sets
Invest in high-quality knives and knife sets to make prep work faster and safer. A set typically includes chef’s knives, paring knives, and bread knives, each serving specific purposes. High-carbon stainless steel blades are durable and maintain sharpness longer. Ergonomic handles provide comfort during prolonged use, reducing hand fatigue. Regular maintenance with a sharpening stone or honing rod is essential to keep the knives in optimal condition. A good knife set can significantly improve your cooking experience and efficiency.
6. Spatulas and Scrapers
Silicone spatulas and scrapers can withstand high temperatures and help in efficiently mixing and scraping food from bowls and pans without damaging non-stick surfaces. They are flexible, allowing for easy maneuvering around bowl edges and pan corners. Heat-resistant silicone ensures they won’t melt or warp under high temperatures. They are also easy to clean, often dishwasher safe, and come in various sizes and shapes to handle different tasks, from spreading batter to flipping delicate foods.
7. Tongs and Serving Spoons
Tongs and serving spoons are perfect for flipping meats or tossing salads, while serving spoons are essential for plating and serving. Stainless steel options offer durability and ease of cleaning. Tongs with silicone tips are gentle on non-stick cookware, while locking mechanisms make them easy to store. Serving spoons come in various sizes and styles, including slotted versions for draining excess liquid. These are must-have kitchen tools for restaurants in order to maintain control and precision while handling hot foods, ensuring safety and efficiency in the kitchen.
8. Whisks
From whipping cream to emulsifying dressings, whisks are crucial. Have a variety of sizes on hand to handle different tasks. Balloon whisks are ideal for incorporating air into ingredients, while flat whisks are perfect for making roux or stirring sauces. Stainless steel whisks are durable and easy to clean. Silicone-coated whisks are safe for non-stick cookware. A good set of whisks can significantly enhance your cooking and baking processes, ensuring smooth and well-mixed ingredients every time.
9. Colanders and Strainers
Colanders and strainers are essential for draining pasta, washing vegetables, and more. Stainless steel colanders are preferred for their longevity and ease of cleaning. They come in various sizes, with fine mesh strainers ideal for rinsing grains or sifting dry ingredients. Collapsible colanders save space in storage, while large, sturdy ones are perfect for handling bigger batches of food. Proper drainage is crucial for many recipes, making colanders and strainers must-have kitchen tools for restaurants.
10. Peelers and Graters
Save time with efficient peelers and graters for vegetables and fruit, and graters for cheese or zest. Ergonomic designs can reduce hand fatigue during extensive use. Stainless steel blades maintain sharpness, ensuring smooth and easy peeling or grating. Multi-functional peelers offer additional features like julienne slicing. Box graters provide various grating sizes in one tool, while handheld zesters are perfect for citrus fruits. These tools streamline prep work, enhancing both speed and precision in the kitchen.
11. Timers and Thermometers
Timers and thermometers help keep track of cooking times and ensure food safety by confirming items are cooked to proper temperatures. This is crucial not only for quality but also for regulatory compliance. Digital thermometers provide quick and accurate readings, essential for meats and baked goods. Multi-function timers can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring no dish is overcooked or forgotten.
12. Pans and Baking Sheets
A good selection of pans and baking sheets allows for cooking various dishes simultaneously. Non-stick, stainless steel, and cast iron each offer different benefits for specific tasks. Non-stick pans are ideal for delicate foods, stainless steel provides even heating for browning, and cast iron retains heat well for frying and baking. Baking sheets come in standard and non-stick varieties, perfect for cookies, roasted vegetables, and more.
13. Can Openers
A sturdy can opener is among the essential smallwares for kitchens. Choose a model that is easy to operate and clean. Manual can openers with ergonomic handles reduce hand strain, while electric models offer convenience for frequent use. Safety can openers that remove lids without sharp edges are also available.
14. Ladles and Slotted Spoons
Ladles and slotted spoons serve soups and stews efficiently, while slotted spoons are perfect for items that need to be drained from liquids. Stainless steel is recommended for its durability. Ladles come in various sizes to match different serving needs, and long handles ensure safe handling of hot liquids. Slotted spoons are ideal for lifting foods from boiling water or oil. These utensils are essential for both cooking and serving, making them valuable additions to any kitchen.
15. Storage Racks and Shelving
Proper storage solutions help keep smallwares for commercial kitchens organized and accessible. Adjustable shelving can accommodate items of various sizes, improving overall kitchen organization. Wire racks and shelving units provide sturdy and versatile storage options. They can be used in cabinets, pantries, or even countertops to maximize space. Proper organization reduces clutter, making it easier to find and access tools and ingredients.
Conclusion
In summary, these smallwares for commercial kitchens will enhance operational efficiency, improve food safety, and potentially even increase the speed of service of your restaurant. Therefore, investing in high-quality kitchen smallwares is an investment in your restaurant’s success.
