A chafing dish/Bain Marie/food warmer is a cooking pot that keeps food warm. It uses gentle indirect heat to keep the food warm. The heat can be from fuel, electricity or through induction heating. This article discusses different types of chafing dishes, the advantages of using chafing dishes and factors to consider when purchasing chafing dishes.
Chafing dishes can be of different types based on their sizes. There are three standard sizes of chafing containers, which include the following;
- Full-size chafers can sustain between 8 to 9 quarts of different types of food. They are the most used for entrees serving and holding.
- Half-size chafers can hold between 4 to 5 food quarts. They are rectangular and are used for side servings and desserts.
- 2\3 size chafers are designed to sustain between 5 to 6 food quarts and are round or square in size.
Full-size chafers are primarily used in the above-discussed types of chafing dishes.
Factors to consider when purchasing chafing dishes
If you buy a chafing container, consider the following aspects since they are essential.
Heat source: chafing dishes comes with different heating styles. It will be advisable to go for the electric chafers if you have electricity in the area of usage. In vice versa, if you have no electricity as a heat source, go for the fuel chafers.
Chafer construction: all chafing dishes are made or constructed from stainless steel. There are chafers made of 18/8 lightweight steel, resistant to corrosion. Still, we have 18/10 steel chafers and heavier-duty steel chafers with an admiring look.
Shape: it is essential to consider the chafing dish shape before purchasing. This will be determined by the type of food you are likely to serve.
Size and capacity: this will be determined by the amount of food you are likely to serve at a particular time
Finishing and styling: as a buyer, you are advised to choose the type of chafer that is attractive to you and the people around you if possible. There are chafers made of gold, brass and even chrome. Others have a metallic mirror finish for attraction. It depends on the individual pocket to buy the chafer of his/their interest.
Covers: the cover type of your chafer is an essential factor to consider. They are several covers which include; roll-top covers, hinged covers, glass covers and finally, retractable covers. Choosing covers depends on the location you will likely use the chafer.
Advantages of chafing dishes
- They are easy to clean: their cover is less laborious, thus easy to clean anytime.
- They can keep food warm for an extended period, which is the main advantage.
- They are durable, which means one can use them for an extended period.
- They are portable, which means you can use them on different occasions.
As we conclude, this article has discussed the different types of chafing dishes, their advantages and factors to consider when purchasing chafing dishes. Elements are critical, and one should consider them when purchasing chafing dishes. The types of words as discussed will be only determined by on area of usage and the occasions.
