Fruit, Vegetable, and Salad Preparation

Whether adding vegetables to an entrée or making a fresh salad, preparing produce is an absolute must for any self-respecting kitchen. Not only does it contribute to a more appealing presentation, but it is also important to preserve the right taste and texture for specific dishes. In this article, we'll run through some essential hardware and equipment that you can use to efficiently and precisely prepare fruits and vegetables.

Mandolines are platform-mounted blades that specialize in thinly sliced fruits and vegetables. Using them is similar to using a cheese grater or similar tool. The user slides the produce across the blade, and the resulting slice drops from the platform. These are definitely very handy tools to have, but it is important to exercise caution when using them, as there are typically no guards or covers on the mandoline blade. Injuries can be avoided by wearing protective gloves.

Electric shredders cut produce down to size with speed and accuracy, making them incredibly useful for prepping fruits and vegetables in bulk. Usually, electric shredders have automatic modes to reduce the amount of work required to shred produce. If cutting food using a knife is too time-consuming or something you lack experience with, then using an electric shredder is a great alternative.

Making fruit salad or a fruit-flavored dessert? A 2-in-1 corer and peeler may come in handy. As the name suggests, these tools simultaneously peel fruit while also removing the core in the center. Typically, a long screw is driven through the top of the fruit, and turning a hand crank slowly peels the skin away while also coring the fruit. These tools are made to fit on a countertop, and some of them are mounted on a countertop with a clamp.

It may not be enough to just buy the first machine or tool you see and start cutting and chopping away. Many of these appliances have accessories that can be changed out and customized to fit certain jobs, or specifications that can help or hinder your operations. Mandoline blades, for instance, have different makes and shapes that can affect how your produce will be sliced. Electric shredders are built to accommodate certain sizes and loads, and there are also different blade styles to choose from. Even choppers and dicers, though simple in usage, are subject to different manufacturers' styles and designs, which impact usage. The important thing to do is to shop around and compare specifications and available parts to determine which machines and tools are the best for your foodservice operation's needs.

Published by:
Christian Dantes

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