Author: Tina Jordan

Five Ways Restaurants Can Stretch Food Budgets

Five Ways Restaurants Can Stretch Food BudgetsA few weeks ago, our factory partners Hamilton Beach Commercial shared five ways for restaurants to stretch food budgets further. The post really highlights some great tips, especially in this time, when everything is so unpredictable. We decided to share the information with you as well, so read on for more information!

1. Start processing food the second it’s delivered. 

In the best of times, it’s tough for kitchen staff to drop everything to deal with incoming deliveries. When the restaurant is understaffed and overwhelmed, it’s even tougher. But Sandra D. Ratcliff, CEC, a longtime chef and director of healthcare sales for The Hansen Group, says the best thing to do, is to “take care of your produce. when it first comes in.”

Ratcliff’s recommendation is to designate a team member to immediately deal with deliveries, even if you’re short-staffed, . The cost savings will easily pay for that extra person. When a case of iceberg lettuce arrives, don’t leave it in the dirty cardboard box that’s been sitting in a farm field. Wash it and vacuum-seal it: “You’ve automatically gotten an extra three weeks out of a product.” The same goes for other ingredients: fresh fish, meat, cheese, etc.

Another benefit of vacuum-sealing is visibility. When stored in cardboard or other opaque packaging, it is easy to forget the food, which then can lead to rot! Once vacuum-sealed, it’s easier to see and use. Just remember that it’s essential to follow food safety guidelines for vacuum-packed foods, and train kitchen staff in safe handling practices.

2. Increase order sizes. 

In the face of so much uncertainty, it seems counter intuitive to order larger quantities of food. That’s exactly what Ratcliff recommends, however. Especially because many restaurant supply companies have cut back their deliveries to just one or two per week. Operators can save a significant amount of money on food, if they order large quantities of ingredients, then process and portion them. Get the 10-pound block of cheese, then cut 1-pound portions and vacuum-seal each one for long-lasting freshness. Order 50 pounds of flour and 30 pounds of dried beans, then measure out the increments needed for specific dishes and vacuum-seal.

3. Order ingredients that have the widest range of uses. 

Get the most out of your food inventory by selecting super-versatile ingredients. Two recommendations from Gordon Food Service Corporate Consulting Chef Gerry Ludwig, CEC: bone-in chicken thighs and tilapia. With chicken, he says, “you could make cassoulet, de-bone them for grilled sandwiches, or roast them and pull the meat for salads and flatbread applications. Restaurant can use tilapia for entrées, sandwiches, fish and chips, tacos, wraps. You can also serve them simply steamed with herbs and spices. ”It is easy to portion proteins precisely, season or marinate them.” Additionally, you can store any protein for optimum quality using a vacuum chamber sealer, such as the PrimaVac.

4. Vacuum-seal to prevent prepared food from going to waste. 

Calibrating food production is tricky when demand is unpredictable. But now’s the time to be conscious of even the smallest amount of food waste, Ratcliff says, because it adds up. She once oversaw food service for a healthcare system with 65 locations. One of those was notorious for going over its food budget by up to $2,700 every month. Upon investigation, she discovered that the kitchen prepared an extra 11 meals per mealtime, just in case they were needed. With PPPD food costs around $7, the system would have lost nearly $1.8 million per year if every location did the same, Ratcliff calculated.

The solution? The staff was educated on batch cooking and vacuum-sealing extra portions, which can be cooked quickly to meet resident requests. This strategy is also easily applicable to restaurants, where the number of take-out orders can vary greatly! You can perfectly cook meals sous-vide, ensuring food safety and preventing overcooking, and served as needed.

5. Revive wilting greens.

Herbs and baby greens are among the most fragile of ingredients — and unless you grow them on-site, they can be in short supply. Chef Andrew Manning, of acclaimed fine-dining restaurant Longoven in Richmond, Virginia, suggests using a chamber vacuum sealer to hydroshock sensitive greens and bring them back to life.

Place greens in a wide, shallow container. Cover them with paper towels, then add ice and cold water. Run the vacuum cycle twice, which removes air from the greens and forces in cold water. The result: rejuvenated herbs that stay crisp for days.

To read more about ways that restaurants can stretch food budgets further, click here.

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Edlund Company’s KSUV-18 sterilizer used creatively

Edlund Company's KSUV-18 sterilizer being used to sanitize facemasksDuring this unprecedented time, all our factory partners are coming up with creative ways of helping businesses. The team at Edlund Company is no different! They are working diligently to continue to service customers and are in daily communication with them. It was this way that they recently learned about one company’s creative use of the Edlund Company’s KSUV-18 Knife Sterilizer.

Edlund Company received a call from the director of multiple Senior Living facilities, who purchased a number of the Edlund Company’s KSUV-18 UV Knife Sterilizer to keep their knives safe. However, the facilities are now using the knife sterilizer to sterilize face masks for re-use, instead. To be clear, Edlund has never promoted this product for this purpose! However, independent lab testing proves that the design reduces over 99% of E-Coli bacteria in just over 3 minutes. Additionally, in nearly five years of sales, there has not been any complaints related to a failure to protect users’ cutlery from contamination, when used according to our recommended procedures.

As the only U.S. supplier of this type of product, Edlund has recorded sales to schools, hospitals, and cruise ships. With many forms of bacteria potentially present in all types of food service operations, it stands to reason that the KSUV-18 might also be successful in sanitizing and protecting more than just knives and related small equipment.

Additionally, Edlund Company is the ONLY company manufacturing this unique product in our factory in Vermont, U.S.A.!

Please contact us to obtain more information about the use of UV-C light as a method of sanitizing! We are here to help and so are our factory partners!

 

Fudgy Brownies to cheer you up!

Fudgy Brownies made using Hamilton Beach Commercial Stand Mixer CPM800Amid all the things that are going on in the world right now, we thought we would take some time to cheer you up a little, and share the recipe for these delicious fudgy brownies!

In this recipe, dark cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate truly elevates an old favorite, and with a deep, bittersweet taste, they’re the perfect ending to a meal!

For best results, we recommend using the Hamilton Beach CPM800 stand mixer!

Fudgy Brownies (Yields 30 brownies)
Ingredients:
2 cups (250 g)       all-purpose flour
½ cup  (43 g)         dark cocoa powder
2 cup (454 g)         unsalted butter, cubed
12 oz (340 g)         bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup (200 g)         granulated sugar
1 cup (220 g)         packed light brown sugar
4 large (200 g)       eggs
2 tsp (8 ml)            vanilla extract
½ tsp (3 g)             salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) with a rack set in the middle position. Lightly spray a 13-by-9-inch (33-by-23-centimeter) baking pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper, extending the edges outside the pan.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together flour and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a double boiler over medium heat, heat butter and chocolate until melted, stirring occasionally.
4. In the mixing bowl of the CPM800 stand mixer fitted with the flat beater attachment and the splash guard installed, add sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute.
5. Add the chocolate mixture. Continue beating until blended, about 1 minute.
6. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the flour mixture. Slowly increase the mixer speed to medium and beat until blended.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake until the top is shiny and a cake tester comes out with a few crumbs attached, 50-55 minutes. Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.
8. Using the edges of the parchment paper, lift the brownies out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cut into wedges or squares to serve.
Original recipe courtesy of Hamilton Beach. To see more, you can click here!

BauscherHepp COVID-19 Resources

Bauscher Hepp Covid-19 ResourcesIn this time of need, many of our factory partners are taking the opportunity to support people in the hospitality industry. This week we are happy to be able to share with you a list of COVID-19 Resources as compiled by BauscherHepp.

For us, and for many of you, these are trying times!  COVID-19 has a significant impact on many of us. Each day we are learning about more businesses and states that are closing down, and at times, it may seem like an insurmountable task to weather this storm! But, please remember that together we will ride this thing out, and come out stronger on the other side!

Click here for more information on COVID-19 Resources as presented by BauscherHepp

In the coming weeks, as we learn more, we will continue to share additional resources on where you can get help, if you need it!

So keep checking back for more information, but in the meantime, please stay safe and healthy!

We look forward to seeing you on the other side!

Nautical Teak Umbrella by TUUCI

TUUCI Nautical Teak Umbrella The innovative design of the new Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella by TUUCI draws inspiration from classic and modern sailing architecture and details! With it’s one-of-a-kind features, the Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella sets a new standard for teak umbrellas. Read on to learn more!

The unique reinforced mast, sports an aluminum spine; which adds strength to the umbrella! Further, it also allows the integration of an internal telescoping crank lift system. This is something never before achieved in a teak umbrella.

The Ocean Master Max Nautical Teak umbrella features responsibly harvested and expertly cured teak of the highest grade.

Teak will gracefully develop a gray patina over the long life of the product. Additionally, teak has the necessary oils to protect from dry rot and splintering, which is key in any outdoor environment. (No one wants splinters, when they sit down 😉)

TUUCi sources the natural teak for each umbrella, and uses it throughout the hubs, ribs and struts. Combined with polished metal elements the teak adds an elegance to this new umbrella, while also giving a nod to TUUCI’s aluminum roots.

INSPIRED DETAILS

The Aluma-CORE mast enables TUUCI’s proprietary gear system and telescoping mast. Further, the mast features a crank, which provides an easy open to close, and the telescoping elements allow for unobstructed closure over the furniture below. This innovative core reflects in external chassis reinforcements clad in polished yachting grade 316 stainless steel alloy.

SUPPORT WHERE YOU NEED IT

Inspired by TUUCI’s marine roots, the premium teak parasol blends the authentic beauty of natural teak hardwood, classic elements of nautical design and durability of corrosion-proof materials.

 

It’s elemental – new colors from emuamericas

emuamericas new colors for 2020Add some new and exciting colors to your patio this summer! For 2020 emuamericas introduces 3 new bold and beautiful colors that draw their inspiration from the elements.

Whether you prefer the cold of places like Alaska or Greenland, the grey of the urban jungle, or the sandy beaches of Florida or other exotic places, there is a color that is sure to please you! The 3 new colors are: Antique Ice White, Antique Cloud Grey and Antique Sand.

By adding these 3 new colors, emuamericas has now given you 21 different color options to choose from! Additonally, emuamericas also offers custom RAL colors, making the possibilities for color combinations endless!!! Don’t be afraid to mix and match the colors! The hottest trend right now, is to have more than one color on your patio.. 

Summer will be here before we know it, so if you are looking for inspiration for your patio, head on over to the emuamericas website. While you’re there, you can also view the products that are in these new colors! Alternatively, reach out to us, and we will be happy to send you the 2020 color card! The color card represents the all the 21 available colors, as accurately as can be achieved through the printing process! 

Coffee Tasting Collection by BauscherHepp

Bauscher Hepps Coffee Tasting Collection wins awardThis week we are thrilled to highlight the Coffee Tasting Collection by BauscherHepp! Have you ever heard of the German Design Award? No? Well – each year an international jury reviews the most innovative and groundbreaking designs and then selects the winners of the German Design Award. This year, the prestigious award for Excellent Product Design in Tabletop went to the Coffee Tasting Collection by BauscherHepp.

The National Coffee Association conducts an annual survey on America’s coffee-drinking habits. For 2019, 63% of respondents said they had consumed a coffee beverage the previous day. This response is consistent with previous years’ findings. However, when you dig a littler deeper, you find that consumers  who enjoyed a “gourmet” or “specialty” coffee equals 61%. That is quite surprising and also marks the first time, gourmet coffee has crossed the 60% threshold. In just 2015, it was only 48%.

With this trend in mind, industrial designer Carsten Gollnick created the Coffee Tasting collection as a true fusion of form and function. Each piece in this collection is designed to enhance the enjoyment of coffee in all it’s forms. So, whether you prefer a Vietnamese or Bulletproof coffee, there’s a shape designed for every type! Additionally, the especially deep saucers can even be used as dishes for tasty snacks or desserts!

Unique Features

Coffee Tasting is truly deserving of this award, with a host of unique features that create the best coffee experience:

  • The sheer rim has an excellent mouthfeel.
  • A ribbed texture not only hearkens back to the texture of a coffee sleeve, it also provides a better grip.
  • Clear glasses showcase careful layered compositions with milk and coffee.

We think seeing is believing, so check out this video to see why there’s so much to love about Coffee Tasting.

If you want to read more about the Coffee Tasting Collection or see the original post, please check out the BauscherHepp Deep Plate Blog!

TUUCI Eclipse Cabana – Relaxation in Style

If you are anything like us, you are dreaming of warmer weather, and this week we are excited to showcase the TUUCI Eclipse Cabana! Available in a variety of  configurations the Eclipse Cabana creates a luxurious modular, outdoor open-air living room for relaxation in style.

Whether your vision is lounging by the pool or enjoying dinner with guests, the versatile TUUCI Eclipse Cabana can transform your landscape into an inviting shaded retreat.

TUUCI’s Eclipse Cabana features a Retractable Roman Shade Roof, which adds old-world romance and stylish shade to any cabana. Made with beautiful, durable, stain-resistant and fade-resistant Textilene® mesh fabric for UV protection and light filtration, the shade opens and closes easily on stainless steel cables. Choose from any of these colors to create the perfect open-air ambiance for your setting!

Available colors for Roman Shade Roof

Owing to the modular design of the TUUCI Eclipse Cabana, the possibilities of personalizing the look are almost endless! Additionally, the modular design of the cabanas means that they are not considered “permanent structures”. Therefore, they are not subject to building regulations – although we always recommend that you check with your local authorities first!

For the Eclipse Cabana, TUUCI offers a variety of modern and classic finishes to complement your outdoor space. Choose from one of the contemporary powder-coat options, or the state-of-the-art woodgrain Aluma-TEAK™ finish.

If you are worried about the outdoor conditions; don’t be! TUUCI tests all of their umbrellas and shade structures to to withstand demanding commercial wind-force standards. Additionally, TUUCI products come standard with:

  • Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame construction
  • High performance marine-grade materials
  • Replaceable components for a lifetime of serviceability

 

Engineered for simplicity, the Eclipse Cabana is beautiful and built to last!!

Hamilton Beach – Savory Cocktails Taking Over?

The spicy cocktail is inAs were learning more about the adverse effects of sugar, it is not surprising that interest in low-sugar and/or savory cocktails is on the rise. In many cases they have replaced sweet cocktails made with syrup and fruit juices. Join us, as the team at Hamilton Beach Commercial explores some savory cocktails that do not need sugar to be delicious.

  1. 1. Herbal Cocktails

“To infuse drinks with herbs, the only tool you’ll need is a blender,” Eater advises. Demario Wallace, the bar manager at Aziza in Atlanta, likes to blend herbs with chilled vermouth. Let the vermouth rest, and then strain. A high-performance commercial blender from Hamilton Beach gives you perfectly consistent results for your savory cocktails.

Another effective — and fast — way to add fresh herbal flavors is by using a commercial vacuum chamber sealer, like the PrimaVac™ line. When the air is removed from a simple syrup mixture, it can be heated sous vide to infuse delicate, fresh ingredients like chamomile, mint, lavender, lemongrass or tarragon. Read more about making sous vide-infused cocktails.

 

  1. Fermented Cocktails

Pickle-juice cocktails are having a moment, whether made with pickle-flavored liquor or the salty brine itself. But the classic cucumber pickle is just one facet of the fermentation trend. Bartenders are pickling other vegetables, like beets and watermelon rind. You’ve undoubtedly seen kombucha on the cocktail menu, but what about koji? This humble fungus is used to make sake and miso. Ryan Chetiyawardana used it to add floral notes to the Scotch-based Koji Hardshake at his legendary (now closed) Dandelyan bar in London.

  1. Spicy Cocktails 

The simplest way to add heat to a cocktail is by adding some fresh hot peppers to the mix. Just be aware that the heat level depends on the intensity of the pepper and the process. Shaking a few jalapeno slices with ice results in a pleasant spiciness. Blending a whole habanero might result in a tongue-searing drink.

Remember: “A cocktail is like a bowl of gumbo: You want to be able to taste all the elements, not just heat,” said Ryan Iriarte of New Orleans’ High Hat. He likes Tabasco sauce, which adds vinegary notes. You may need a tiny touch of sweetness to balance the heat. Check out Belle Isle Honey Habanero Moonshine, which is made in Virginia, near Hamilton Beach Commercial’s headquarters.

 

To read the full article head to the Hamilton Beach Commercial Blog for the “Shaken, but not Sweet” post.

A toast to BIRRATEQUE™- a Luigi Bormioli collection

BIRRATEQUE™- a Luigi Bormioli collection of glassware created specifically for beerIf you are anything like us, then it feels like 2020 is FLYING by! Soon we will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with all manner of parades, festivals and of course – beer! The BIRRATEQUE™ collection from Luigi Bormioli – a Bauscher Hepp brand – can help you and your guests celebrate with style! 

Every type of beer has unique characteristics, and for this reason each specific type of beer should be served in the appropriate glass. This will allow all it’s features to be emphasized. The shapes and dimensions of this new glassware collection are the results of studies, research, and tests:

• Glass shape and glass quality influence the color, aroma, and the taste of beer. The glass shape must match the type of beer that is poured into it.
• The right glass will bring forward the true flavors of the beer. (This is much the same for wine glasses).
• The internal volume of the glass must be greater than that of the beer poured into it in order to create an adequate aromatic chamber (head space).

Only in this way it will be possible to experience the true aromas of the beer.  On the contrary, if the glass is filled up to the rim the aromatic molecules of the beer will drift out and vanish in the surrounding environment and its flavor will be distorted.

The BIRRATEQUE™ collection from Luigi Bormioli uses unique shapes and dimensions to ensure the best possible presentation of color, aroma, and taste of beer, so whether you choose to toast with a pilsner or a cider this St. Patrick’s Day, there is a glass for every type!

Éirinn go Brách

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