There is so much to see in the modern kitchen! Some fruits of scientific and technological progress are even difficult to identify at first glance, let alone come up with a name for them. It is to such items that the food warmer belongs. Many of us have seen it in restaurants or hotel buffets, but gradually it starts to seep into regular kitchens as well, because it's a handy and practical gadget. What is it, bain-marie?
What is a bain-marie and why is it needed
A food warmer is a device for storing prepared food at a certain temperature. The description is similar to a refrigerator, but the bain-marie has one fundamentally different feature - it keeps the food warmed up, and the lid does not allow them to weather. Thus, the food in the oven for a long time looks as if it has just been removed from the stove.
The food warmer looks like an oval, round or rectangular container on a stand with a lid. Inside it there are several separate containers (rarely more than four), where cooked food is placed. In addition, the device is equipped with a thermostat and, sometimes, protection that prevents the device from turning on if there is nothing inside.
It should be noted that the bain-marie is not intended for food preparation. You can neither cook soup nor brew tea in it - the degree of heating is not enough for this. It serves solely to maintain the temperature of hot dishes, since repeated heating does not affect their taste for the better, and this is known to any chef.
Modern food warmers are made from environmentally friendly and safe materials that help maintain the required temperature, are reliable and durable.
Types of food warmers
Food warmers can be divided into groups according to many characteristics: shape, purpose (for first courses, for second courses, for sauces, for drinks), materials, the number of working containers, and so on. However, the main classification is based on the structural features and the nuances of the functioning of the devices, thanks to which the food remains warm.
Today there are three types of food warmers:
- A variety that does not have an additional heating device, working on the principle of a thermos. The temperature is maintained due to the tightness of the lid and the double walls of the dishes. This bain-marie is designed to keep warm for a short time.
- Heated by electricity. Such models can most often be found on buffets, in restaurants and similar public institutions.
- Heating by means of a tablet candle or a gas burner - as a rule, these are compact devices that can be found in ordinary kitchens.
Depending on the installation method, the devices can be desktop or stationary. Table food warmers are used both at home and at outdoor events. They are small in size, but, nevertheless, they keep well the first and second courses, as well as drinks and sauces hot.
Heating in tabletop models is carried out either thanks to a gas burner, or due to the presence of special heating elements. Stationary food warmers are not designed to be moved. They represent a whole complex of containers where you can find several different first or second courses, as well as sauces. They are usually found in large catering outlets.
Device of bain-marie
The device of bain-marie affects not only the quality of their functioning, but also the convenience of using them. Therefore, we will consider some details in more detail.
Material from which the device is made can be very different: chrome-plated steel, ceramics, heat-resistant glass, granite and marble. This parameter affects not only the appearance, but also the quality and duration of temperature retention.
Lid. It can be removable, like a pan, reclining and rolling. The last two options, as practice shows, are much more convenient, since they do not require looking for a place where to put the removed cover. And the roll-back and flip-open lids close more tightly, which allows you to keep the warmth and flavor of the food. The only plus of the removable cover is the low cost of the devices equipped with it. Among the hinged lids, those that have an angle of 180 degrees are preferable - they are more convenient to use and maintain.
Thermostat. This appliance serves to demonstrate and maintain the temperature that is optimal for each dish. In some cases, it is directly related to the power supply and can turn the heating on or off depending on whether the temperature has increased or decreased. It also prevents the inclusion of an empty device. Ideally, the range of the thermostat should be between 30 and 90 degrees, narrower modes will be less convenient. One of the important characteristics is the location of the thermostat - it should be easily accessible for the cook and hidden from visitors so that no one accidentally knocks down the settings. The ideal temperature for first courses, drinks and sauces is 75 degrees Celsius, for second courses - 65 degrees.
Stand holder must be reliable and stable. If you plan to use the food warmer for "representative" purposes, that is, on a buffet table, in the direct accessibility of visitors, then it is important that the stand complements the overall design of the device.
Additional elements. The food warmer can be equipped with a humidifier, lighting, a fan, rotating shelves (they are often used for displaying goods), wheels for moving around the kitchen, an electric cord, drawers for storing cutlery and many other parts. When purchasing, it should be remembered that most of these components do not affect the direct functionality, but at the same time they increase the cost. Based on this, before buying, you first need to decide exactly what kind of food warmer you need, where it will stand, what dishes are planned to be stored in it, and other important nuances. This will help you avoid wasting money on unnecessary features.
It is not necessary to mention that all parts must be securely fixed, and the device itself must be free of chips, cracks and other defects.
In what ways is food processed in bain-marie
As we mentioned earlier, heating can be carried out in different ways: by means of a burner, electricity, or simply the design does not allow food to cool down. However, in most cases, it is not the container with food itself that heats up, but the heating is done indirectly. For example, chafing-dishes have containers of water, so food is heated like a water bath. In other models, air plays the role of water, but such models are less convenient, since the dishes in them can dry out and burn.
The most innovative bain-marie uses infrared illumination as heating to ensure maximum heat dissipation without any drawbacks.
There are also combined options. They are the most convenient, since different technologies are more preferable for different dishes. For example, first courses are best kept warm using the traditional water and dry methods. But for second courses, infrared radiation is preferable, which will prevent them from burning or drying out.
Benefits of using
All well-known restaurateurs and hotel owners have long appreciated the advantages of equipping such a device as a bain-marie. But in home kitchens, he is still a rare guest. And in vain. What are the undoubted advantages you get with this interesting piece of kitchen utensils?
- Ready meals retain their freshness for a long time and do not require reheating, which would negatively affect the taste.
- It greatly simplifies the work of chefs, who can immediately prepare a large volume of a dish, and then serve it fresh and warm as needed.
- The food warmer saves time for food service customers who can receive the ordered dish immediately, without wasting time waiting for it to be cooked.
- The food warmer is affordable and saves electricity or gas, which would have to be spent on preparing many small portions of the same dish.
- At a picnic or at an off-site event, the food warmer allows you to bring ready-made meals and maintain the temperature they need any amount of time until the guests sit down at the table.
- These devices are easy to operate and undemanding to maintain.
Rules of operation and care
First of all, it is worth remembering that the bain-marie is designed to maintain the temperature regime of various types of food, and not for warming up. That is, only hot, freshly cooked, fried or otherwise prepared dishes can be placed there. If you have frozen food, you must first reheat them in the microwave or oven, and only then place them in the food warmer.
Do not try to adapt a stationary food warmer for moving. It is better to purchase a specially mobile model.
In restaurants, before each use, food warmers are carefully examined for defects and violations of sanitary and hygienic standards.
Serving your bain-marie is easy. In principle, it is sufficient to wash it regularly. True, most appliances do not tolerate aggressive cleaning with abrasive products and hard sponges. It is better to use soft sponges and a solution of soda, which is enough to boil and soak containers in it for a quarter of an hour so that all burnt pieces quickly fall behind. Countertop food warmers fit easily into the dishwasher. If you have an option with the principle of operation of a water bath, then after each use, the water must be drained, rinsed and wiped dry.
Very often, when visiting various cafes and pizzerias, you can see showcases with ready-made dishes placed in metal containers. The future lunch is kept hot in such devices for a long time. These indispensable helpers are called food warmers.
This equipment is used not only in front of customers, but also in the kitchens of establishments. The advantages of food warmers are difficult to overestimate. Such assistants will help businesses thrive wherever an endless stream of customers immediately demands a hot and hearty meal.
Repeated heating of food has a negative effect on its taste. And this is known to all chefs. The temperature of the finished dish is maintained in the bain-marie at an average of 60 to 80 ° C, which in most cases avoids the additional hassle of heating. Another plus is noticeable energy savings. In addition, there are food warmers that do not need electricity, the temperature is maintained in them with the help of special fuel.
The food warmer, which heats the finished product with saturated steam, is also popular in kitchens.
Equipment with dry impact heating elements noticeably lags behind in use due to overheating and rapid failure.
In any case, today the buyer has the opportunity to choose exactly the equipment that suits him the best way possible.
A variety of models allows you to choose the required dimensions, shape, type of energy source (gas, electricity) and the principle of operation of the heating elements.
A piece of dining equipment that can be seen quite often in restaurants is called a bain-marie. It can be rectangular, round (or oval) and can be closed with a lid. Such a container is designed for cooking, storing food and convenience foods. Not everyone knows about the existence of such a device, its advantages and rules of use. And with the help of this device you can maintain the temperature of just cooked food for a long time.
Bain-marie - what is it?
Marmite is a French word, translated it means a saucepan, a pot, a kettle. Made of steel or aluminum, the bain-marie is designed for storing semi-finished products, food, as well as ready-made food. A stainless steel or silver fixture is used to maintain the temperature.
The food warmer is mainly used at buffets and large receptions, where hot dishes are served, among other dishes. Its main purpose is to keep the temperature of the finished dish hot for a long time. You can be sure that by placing food in a hot plate, this will allow it not to burn, to be always ready to eat and not to become chapped.
Types of food warmers
There are several types of food warmers. They are intended for serving various foods. Most often you can find a bain-marie for main courses. As a rule, up to three different foods can be put into the container of the device at the same time, using containers-inserts of suitable sizes.
For serving soups, it is customary to use a bain-marie for the first courses. This device has a completely different look. Special pots are inserted into the base-stand, which have a specific shape and a not thick bottom.
A special food warmer is also used for hot drinks and sauces. That this kitchen appliance can be stationary, mobile or tabletop, follows from its main purpose - to keep the temperature of ready meals.
Bain-marie is used both in restaurant halls and in kitchens of various establishments. Where customers flow, this equipment helps to build a thriving business. Its use is unjustified only in elite restaurants, where orders are carried out individually and are works of art. But even in this case, the food warmer is used to store the components of future dishes at the required temperature regime.
Food warmer in the household
For home use, table warmers are most often used only for serving hot food and maintaining its optimal temperature. Such kitchen appliances consist of an autonomous heating source, a container for placing dishes, a frame stand and a lid. The bain-marie with candles lit from below looks stylish and decorates the table very much, attracts the interested glances of guests. There are devices without heating, heat is retained in them due to thick double walls.
What else do you need to know when choosing a bain-marie? What else can this kitchen device offer the mistress of the house? The buyer has a choice of shape, size, type of energy source (gas, electricity or candles) and other features. There are types of food warmers with a solid surface, with temperature control by zones. Heat treatment can be traditional (surface heating due to heat transfer) and intensified, with an increased heat transfer coefficient (technology with infrared and combined heating).
Table warmers with heating maintain the temperature of hot dishes for a long time, preserving their taste as much as possible.
At the same time, there is no preparation, nothing is boiled down and does not burn. In some cases, such serving is almost mandatory. For example, for lamb, the fat of which solidifies literally a few minutes after serving. Before buying, study which food warmer is better to choose for your home, how they differ and how to use a fashionable device with maximum efficiency.
Device and principle of operation
The classic bain-marie is a container with constant heating. Most often, heating is powered by electricity. Such devices are used in places of public catering and for transporting ready-made food. Reheating helps to avoid reheating and preserves the flavor of the food.
The device of a table bain-marie for heating main courses and side dishes is similar to a full-fledged one. The device consists of two parts: stands and containers for food... Burners, candles or electricity are used as a heat source. New products include infrared heating. But in this case, the heating elements are located on top.
The principle of operation is simple - the heat source constantly warms the container, keeping the snacks hot. At the same time, the heating temperature is insignificant, which excludes burning and digestion of ingredients. Please note that these devices not suitable for cooking food.
Unlike professional food warmers, tabletop with a candle is more decorative. Metal stands are made curly and carved, candlesticks are decorated with various techniques. The stands are complemented by comfortable and attractive handles.
Types of table food warmers for home
As a rule, they buy one dish of such a plan for the house, so it is important to choose the most suitable and practical one.
Varieties by type of heating source
Table-top food warmers for home can be divided into groups:
- For table setting with candles or a burner - maintain the temperature during long feasts. The dishes in this series are always beautiful. There are containers made of glass, ceramics, porcelain. The number of candles depends on the size of the bowl and the designer's idea.
- Electric to keep food hot. As a rule, such models are hermetically sealed so as not to waste electricity. Stainless steel is used as material for electric armies.
Heating do direct and by the principle of a water bath to avoid overdrying. The indirect heating device consists of two containers - the lower one for water with a water heater and the upper one for the second or first courses. Hot water in a sealed pan keeps the temperature even when the power is off, if you put the food warmer on the table. Taps are provided to drain the water.
Candle heated models are easy to service. Their principle of operation is simple and straightforward. The flames are associated with a home, so table setting with a bain-marie with candles is always attractive.
In some products, there is a combined stand for a heating source. You can place tea candles in it or pour hot coals if you plan to have a picnic or lunch outdoors.
Electrical appliances have more options - here you can set the heating temperature. To regulate the temperature, the devices are supplemented with thermostats and sensors. The temperature range depends on the brand of the product and is in the range of 30-90 degrees. When choosing, keep in mind that the optimal temperature for the first courses is 75 degrees, and for the second - 65.
Sizes and shapes
Food warmers come with one or more containers for heating snacks, first and second courses. The containers are made in a variety of shapes: square, rectangular, oval, round. For a family feast, models with one container, designed for one dish, are more suitable.
The shape and depth depend on the purpose. Home-made table bain-marie for main courses are smaller and wider, and for warming up first courses they resemble not very deep ones. And if in a heated tureen you can serve almost any hot appetizer, then you will not be able to pour the soup into a container resembling a baking dish. Consider this point when choosing.
Manufacturing material
Depending on the material of the container, table-top food warmers with heating function are:
- steel (chrome-plated or polished);
- ceramic and porcelain;
- made of heat-resistant glass;
- marble or granite.
Porcelain and ceramic table bain-marie with candle heating fit perfectly into the table setting and are combined with tableware. Porcelain and ceramics keep warm for a long time and evenly distributes it, so that the dish remains hot throughout the entire volume. If desired, the ceramic container can be used as a baking dish by removing it from the base.
Bain-marie made of natural stone cannot be called practical due to the heavy weight and capriciousness in care. But such tableware emphasizes the status of the owner and complements the setting of the corresponding table.
For lovers of minimalism and practical things, it is better to buy a metal table food warmer heated by electricity or a burner. Steel does not absorb fats and juices, is not afraid of acids and alkalis, therefore it is suitable for any products. Steel containers are lightweight and easy to clean and store.
Heat-resistant glass bain-marie looks modern and stylish. Glass is inert and can be easily washed from fish dishes with a persistent aroma. The most interesting are the universal forms. For example, food warmers, in which you can cook on the stove, and then put on a heated stand and serve as in a tureen.
Covers can be made from base material or glass. Sometimes the set includes two lids, so that you can diversify the serving. In household models, the lids are hinged like bread bins, and in desktop models they often open, like in a regular saucepan.
Rules for using table bain-marie
Keep in mind that candle, burner and electricity bain-marie are not designed for cooking or reheating food. Their task is keep the set temperature of the hot food... However, the bowls themselves can and should even be used for cooking as a baking dish or stewing dish.
The choice of recipes depends on the materials of the container and the decorative finish. The best for the oven are heat-resistant glass, ceramics and porcelain. But be sure to pay attention to the lid, if the handle is plastic or glued, set it aside and cover with foil.
Dishes cooked in ceramic, glass and porcelain dishes are similar to those baked in pots. But in the bain-marie, the snacks look even more appetizing and spectacular! Plus, it's easier to divide your portions right on the table.
If you do not want to cook in a mold, fill it with a ready-made hot dish and immediately place it on the support. Using a tabletop food warmer with a heated fire is simple - light candles or burners and place them on the table. The energy of the flame is sufficient to heat the dishes, which will prevent the contents from cooling.
Review of interesting food warmers from different manufacturers
To know what to look for in stores, check out interesting models from the comfort of your couch.
The original six-liter Chafindish Wok Rechauds tabletop food warmer is made of stainless steel, heated with a burner. The set includes a special grid and a stainless steel dish. Suitable for large family meals and picnics in nature or summer cottages.
The Bekker food warmer is made of heat-resistant ceramics. The stand is made of stainless steel with a rose gold finish. The handle on the glass lid with a hole for steam outlet is similarly decorated. Without a lid, the heat-resistant form can be used, as, put in the oven and microwave. The classic design fits in with porcelain and earthenware sets.
The Con Brio range of tabletop rectangular food warmers is available in three sizes: 1,5,2 and 3 liters. A sturdy stand, heated by two candles, is made of steel, and the mold is made of heat-resistant SABINEX glass, which can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees.
The 1.8 liter Rosenberg steel bain-marie is a beautiful combination of silver and gold. Stainless steel dishes are suitable for any table service if there are cutlery or cutlery of the same metal on the table.
The Stahlberg serving set consists of two ovenproof porcelain molds and four copper-look steel lids (two porcelain and two glass). The containers with porcelain lids can be placed in the oven. Glass ones are intended for table setting.
The serving ceramic bain-marie with a lid on a chrome stand with heating from candles does not shine with luxury, therefore it is convenient for everyday use. Suitable for white tableware collections.
The form of heat-resistant ceramics in an openwork metal stand, stylized as patinated copper, invokes thoughts of the fabulous East. Suitable for baking dishes in the oven and heating in the microwave. The universal design is compatible with all stylistic directions.
A heated glass tureen on a steel base holds 4 liters of ready meals. It looks like a. The pot can be placed in the microwave without a lid. All the beauty of the soup can be seen through the walls of the heat-resistant glass. The set includes a steel ladle.
There are also sets with bouillon dishes or. The set will simplify the selection of dishes and make an ordinary home dinner as luxurious as in a prestigious restaurant.
Choosing a table warmer for table setting, do not be lazy to explore the range of different online stores. If buying as a gift, opt for neutral and versatile models.
Hot, tasty and aromatic food is what every housewife strives for. Many people find it very difficult to make a festive serving of a daily meal. In fact, properly selected high-quality kitchen utensils can easily cope with the task. What it is, and where to get it, we will discuss further.
Of course, any freshly prepared dish is tastier and healthier than a frozen one. It was in order to prolong this time as long as possible that the food warmers were invented. In the household, such equipment is not particularly used, more in restaurant complexes, but everyone can buy it, the equipment is widely available.
The bain-marie is a dish made of a special material that allows you to keep the temperature of the dish at a certain level for the required time. It is a stand (heated frame) with vessels of various shapes. Additionally may include thermostats, indicators and display. With its help, food retains its aroma and original taste for a long time. It can often be used to serve dishes at buffets, celebrations and other important events.
Most bain-marie makers are not designed for cooking (just storage!) Food, but there are also specialized devices in which you can cook.
Depending on the place of use, the utensils are stationary and mobile, respectively. It is easy to use, easy to install on a table and has a compact size (up to 5 liters in volume). It is worth noting the extreme convenience of this device for outdoor recreation, where everything cools down much faster, and the bain-marie will help keep food hot for longer. In addition, the appliance fits easily into a kitchen cabinet, has a stylish custom design that makes serving the dish truly royal.
Types of bain-marie
Depending on the food, food warmers are divided into:
- For the first courses. Outwardly, they are not very wide, but they have high walls, which allows you to maintain an optimal temperature, both on the surface and at the bottom.
- For second courses. A wide vessel with low walls. Thanks to its special shape, food is evenly heated in a short time.
They are in shape: square, round, oval, rectangular.
By the type of material for the manufacture of kitchen utensils, there are:
- Glass. Heat-resistant glass easily withstands temperature changes. In addition, it makes the serving of the dish special, since it is clearly visible through the transparent walls.
- Ceramic / marble. They are highly durable and aesthetically pleasing. It is ideal for home use.
- Steel. Because steel is durable, it can be cleaned in the dishwasher. This type is often used in restaurants.
- Porcelain. The material heats up instantly and retains heat longer than other types.
Additionally, the bain-marie can be finished with other material from the inside. The lid of the vessel can be removable or hinged.
Heating is carried out in different ways:
- From candles or burners (gas). Such a bain-marie is simple and absolutely safe, besides, it creates a warm and romantic atmosphere for your feast.
- With a tight lid and additional walls. This is a kind of kitchen thermos. Food only holds the temperature for a few hours.
- Electrical. This type is very common in restaurants, cafes and bars. They can work for a long time.
- Combined type.
Customers are often interested in which bain-marie to prefer? Stop your choice on the one that best suits your requirements (size, color, type of heating, etc.).
How to choose a bain-marie?
If you decide to buy a food warmer for your own kitchen, consider the following:
- Dimensions. If you have a small family, you can take a bain-marie with one compartment. If you want to use it to serve dishes on the festive table, you can get a bain-marie for several compartments at once, which will allow you to serve several different dishes at the same time.
- A place. If you have a small apartment, you shouldn't buy a large food warmer, otherwise you simply won't find a place for it on the dining table.
- Color and design. For the home, you should select dishes that match the interior of your room.
Having considered the differences and features of the bain-marie, we can say that such dishes are indispensable in every kitchen. Having chosen the optimal model for yourself, you will be convinced by personal experience of the benefits of this useful device.