Powerful steam is revolutionizing the way home cookers and chefs of commercial kitchens prepare food. This emerging trend of using steam in kitchen applications has been shown to contribute to food safety and hygiene practices, resulting in higher quality dishes, and better overall sustainability. From rapid heating of foods and beverages to cleaning and sanitizing surfaces, the power of steam can be a true game-changer.
Believe it or not, using steam for cooking is not a new concept. In fact, steam power was used in ancient times for a variety of culinary endeavors. However, today as technology rapidly advances, we are now seeing the full potential and benefits of modernized steam technology.
Why Steam Power?
Steam power is an excellent choice because it provides a more delicate and soft heating process when compared to traditional cooking methods. This lower temperature of steaming helps foods to retain more of their vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, while keeping its natural flavor and moisture. Better yet, it completely eliminates the need for any added fats, oils, or salts.
Not only does steam power prove to cook food more evenly, but it also has great potential to reduce the amount of time required for food preparation. That’s because, when in the presence of steam, the work of heat transfer is significantly reduced. Moreover, steam can also help food and beverage contents to heat up faster.
When looking at it from a commercial kitchen or food processing perspective, steam power will allow for a more even and faster cooking process. This is essential for larger-scale cooking operations, such as restaurants, hotels, schools, and catering services. Furthermore, the steam power of modern combi ovens and steamer units can also assist in the production of higher quality food products.
Lastly, steam power can even be used to sanitize kitchen equipment, countertops, and storage containers. With the simple flip of a steam switch, you can kill off up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria. This helps to ensure all kitchen equipment is in keeping with any food safety standards and regulations.
Combi Ovens and Steamers
Combi ovens and steamers are a fusion of steam power and convection heat, and thus proving to be the most advanced form of equipment for modern-day cooking nears. Combi ovens can provide a vast array of cooking methods, including steaming, baking, roasting, poaching, air frying, and a variety of other preparations.
Many commercial steamers and combi ovens are equipped with a variety of cooking programs, allowing for automatic adjustments for different products. This can help to ensure a consistent and even-food preparation process. Moreover, smart menu-based systems can offer guides with recommended temperatures, cooking times, and humidity levels based on the type and quantity of food being prepared.
Furthermore, combi ovens and steamers can also reduce cooking times due to the innovative technology of the pressurized environment. This can lead to improved kitchen efficiency and quicker food production.
Steam Table Pans
Steam table pans are another innovative piece of equipment that can drastically impact the sustainability of a food service operation. These pans are made out of high-quality, durable, food-grade stainless steel, and are equipped with custom-fitted lids and steam stands.
These pans are unique because they are designed in a way that prevents any condensation from forming, and ensures the food remains at a consistent temperature. This leads to less food upheaval, and therefore reduced product waste. Moreover, steam table pans can also help to decrease the overall cooking time by holding larger amounts of food at an even temperature.
Challenges and Considerations
While steam power can prove to be beneficial in many ways, it is essential to consider its unique challenges and considerations. For instance, steam power tends to occupy a large amount of space, so it is absolutely essential to ensure there is adequate room in the kitchen. Furthermore, it is also important to account for any additional energy usage associated with the use of steam power. Lastly, it is important to regularly clean and maintain all steam power equipment to ensure it remains in proper working condition.
The Future of Steam Power
As technology continues to advance, the future of steam power capabilities in the kitchen is constantly growing. Our kitchens are becoming equipped with innovative tools and equipment that can provide even greater levels of efficiency, productivity, and food safety.
However, it is important to remember that technology does not replace the human element. It is essential to ensure that all employees are adequately trained in the use of steam power equipment to ensure the best possible results. Moreover, regularly testing and inspecting all equipment is essential to ensure it is in optimal working condition.
In conclusion, the power of steam in the kitchen can indeed prove to be a revolutionary way to enhance food safety and hygiene. From cooking to cleaning, steam power is becoming an increasingly popular method for most food service operations. It is important to consider the unique challenges and considerations of using steam power and to ensure that all employees are properly trained. With the right tools and equipment, steam power in the kitchen can indeed be a game-changer.
