Steam Tables & Pans in Food Warming Equipment(36)

Choosing the right size steam table pan depends on the type and quantity of food you plan to serve. Steam table pans come in various standard sizes, including full, half, third, and sixth sizes. Consider these points:

• Full-size pans are great for large quantities and main dishes.
• Smaller pans like one-sixth or one-third sizes work well for side dishes or condiments.
• Depth matters: shallow pans are ideal for quick heating and display, while deeper pans hold more volume for bulk cooking.
• Think about your steam table or warmer's pan capacity to ensure compatibility.

Measuring your equipment and planning your menu can help you pick the right pans for efficient service.

Proper cleaning and maintenance keep your steam table pans in good shape and food-safe. Here's a helpful routine:

1. After use, soak pans in warm, soapy water to loosen food residue.
2. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to scrub gently, avoiding harsh scouring pads that can scratch surfaces.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove soap.
4. For stainless steel pans, occasional polishing can restore shine.
5. Dry pans completely before storing to prevent rust or corrosion, especially for metal pans.

Following these steps can extend the life of your pans and keep them looking their best.

Steam tables use moist heat to maintain food temperature, which helps prevent drying. Here's how it works:

• The water in the steam table's reservoir heats up, creating steam that surrounds the pans.
• This steam transfers gentle, even heat to the food, keeping it warm and moist.
• Using lids or covers on pans helps trap moisture and heat, further reducing drying.
• Maintaining the correct water level is important to ensure continuous steam generation.

This method is effective for buffet setups and catering, keeping food at safe serving temperatures while preserving texture.

Aluminum steam table pans are generally safe for oven use, but it's important to consider a few factors:

• Aluminum pans conduct heat well, making them suitable for baking or roasting at moderate temperatures.
• Check the pan's thickness; heavier gauge pans handle oven heat better and resist warping.
• Avoid using disposable aluminum pans at very high temperatures or under direct broilers, as they can warp or discolor.
• Always follow any manufacturer guidelines if available, and avoid sudden temperature changes to prolong pan life.

Using aluminum pans in the oven can be convenient for cooking and reheating food, but handle with care.

Maintaining the right temperature on your steam table is key for food safety and quality. Consider these guidelines:

• Keep hot foods at or above 140¬∞F (60¬∞C) to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use a reliable food thermometer to check temperatures regularly.
• Adjust the steam table's heat settings to maintain consistent warmth without overcooking.
• For buffet service, avoid temperatures that are too high, which can dry out food.
• Some steam tables come with temperature displays or controls to help monitor settings easily.

Balancing temperature helps keep food both safe to eat and appealing to guests.