Commercial cooking equipment refers to the machinery, appliances, and tools used in preparing, cooking, and serving food in commercial kitchens. These pieces of equipment are designed to meet the high-volume demands of commercial kitchens and provide consistency in the quality of food prepared.
Commercial cooking equipment includes various appliances, including ranges, ovens, grills, fryers, and steamers. Each piece of equipment is designed for a specific cooking function and can be used in various food services establishments, such as restaurants, hotels, and catering companies.
One of the common pieces of commercial cooking equipment is the range. Ranges typically consist of a cooktop with burners and a built-in oven. Ranges can be powered by gas or electricity and come in various sizes, ranging from small countertop units to large freestanding models.
Ovens are another critical piece of equipment in commercial kitchens. Ovens can be used for baking, roasting, and broiling and come in several types, including convection, deck, and combination ovens. Convection ovens are designed to go round hot air, resulting in more even cooking and faster cooking times. Deck ovens are typically used for baking bread and pizza and feature stone or brick decks to help create a crispy crust. Finally, combination ovens combine the features of both convection and steam ovens to provide maximum cooking flexibility.
Grills are another famous piece of equipment in commercial kitchens, particularly in restaurants specialising in grilled meats and vegetables. Grills can be gas-powered or electric and cook various items, including steaks, burgers, fish, and vegetables.
Fryers are used for deep-frying foods like French fries, chicken, and fish. Fryers can be countertop models or floor-standing units, typically powered by gas or electricity. Commercial fryers can hold a large quantity of oil and are designed to cook food quickly and evenly.
Steamers are used for cooking food using steam and are ideal for cooking vegetables, rice, and seafood. Steamers come in several different types, including countertop models and floor-standing units. In addition, some steamers can be used for cooking and holding food, making them versatile equipment in commercial kitchens.
Other types of commercial cooking equipment include grills, broilers, salamanders, and ranges with built-in griddles or broilers. Each piece of equipment has a specific function and can be used to prepare various dishes.
In addition to the different types of equipment, commercial cooking equipment also comes in various sizes and configurations to suit the needs of different food service establishments. For example, small restaurants and cafes may only require a few essential pieces of equipments, while large hotels and catering companies may require a wide range of equipment to meet their high-volume demands.
When selecting commercial cooking equipment, it is essential to consider factors such as the size of the kitchen, the type of food being prepared, and the volume of food that will be served. In addition, proper installation, maintenance, and equipment cleaning are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
In conclusion, commercial cooking equipment is vital in the food service industry, allowing businesses to prepare and serve high-quality food efficiently and consistently. With the wide range of equipment available, there is something to suit the needs of every food service establishment, from small cafes to large catering companies.
