Restaurant Supply & Restaurant Equipment Blog

The Many Uses Of A Blender

Emily Rollins — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:30:49 +0000

We all know that blenders have been used for drinks and smoothies, but there are so many unique recipes that you can use a blender for. By purchasing a blender, a restaurant can switch up it’s menu weekly and introduce new, exciting flavors and dishes. It’s time to dust off that blender you have sitting around, and start thinking about the ways you can make your menu more creative!

1. Drinks Galore

Yes, we’re starting off with the tried and true use of a blender, but there are more options than just smoothies. Adding smoothies to your menu will give customers a healthy option, but you can also make frozen drinks with your blender, as well as milkshakes. These two drink options can also be made for kids or adults – a great profit booster.

2. Soups, Sauces and Salsa Oh My!

Whether it’s hot or cold, you can blend soup to make it nice and velvety smooth. It doesn’t matter if you finely dice and chop up your ingredients, you need a blender if you want a smooth soup or base. If you’re using a hot soup, remember to only fill it halfway so the mixture doesn’t overflow out of the jar. The same logic goes with sauces. You can blend a perfect tomato sauce for all of those Italian themed dinners you’ll be having, or whatever dish you’ll need a sauce for! The blender purees the tomatoes so you’re left with a smooth texture. Salsa is one of the easiest things to make in a blender, and you can make it fit your preference of chunky or smooth. You can toss in all of your ingredients, and blend until it’s the way you like it!

3. Dress It Up

Save money and increase profit by making your own homemade salad dressings, jams, butters and more. These not only taste great, but make your restaurant more unique. Use your blender to smooth out butter and dressing, or puree fruit to make a delicious jam. You can even make your own mayonnaise to your liking, and add in some spice or garlic for extra flavor. Customers go crazy for homemade or made-from-scratch dressings and butters, so it’s a great way to get new patrons through the door!

4. Baking Essentials

Did you know you can also make your own powdered sugar? It’s as simple as pouring in a cup of granulated sugar and letting your blender go. Long gone are the days of running to the store, now you can make your own and save money! Making homemade whipped cream used to take time and effort, but now it’s as simple as pouring in three ingredients and hitting the “on” switch. Other baking essentials include butter and applesauce. For dessert, you can make ice cream, pudding, sherbert and more! This link has fantastic blender recipes.

5. What Else Is There?

By now you’ve realized how many sauces and liquid-based things you can make using a blender, but there are still some that might surprise you. You can make your very own bread (or cracker) crumbs to use in many recipes. Simply put the bread or crackers in the blender, and pulse until it’s as fine or diced as you want. Want freshly ground coffee but thought you’d need a grinder? Not so! You can grind your own coffee beans as well as peppercorns using a blender. This way is as fresh as you can get.

There is so much more to make in a blender than just a smoothie. This list is very short compared to all of the other things you can make. Fresh, homemade sauces, soups, salsa, ground coffee and more can really make a difference within your restaurant. Customers will start to notice the difference and how great tasting homemade really is! These small, inexpensive additions to your menu will make a great impact with your customer base, and increase profit all at the same time. What could be better than that? Shop Central for the best commercial blender selection, and visit these websites for great blender recipes!

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SecoSelect Cook & Hold Oven Slow Roasts Food to Perfection

Emily Rollins — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:30:18 +0000

Looking for an oven that can slow roast meats without additional browning ingredients? Meet your best match! SecoSelectCook & Hold Ovens perfectly slow cook food every time, even when your kitchen gets super hectic. Seco’s ovens lets you multitask while your meat slow cooks flawlessly, allowing you to work on other kitchen duties!

Features and Benefits

How does the Seco Cook & Hold Oven slow cook meats so perfectly? The ovens have heated inner walls to preserve heat and use CookSavor™ technology which allows food to have maximum flavor while using minimum energy. They automatically switch from cook to hold modes, with digital controls, and have an accuracy of + or – 2 degrees. The easy-to-use digital control panel makes delivering delicious, slow roasted food a snap!

SecoSelect Cook & Hold Ovens are built to withstand even the busiest foodservice operations. They have a sturdy, stainless steel construction with welded perimeter angle steel frame and door and are fully insulated throughout. Heavy-duty 5” casters and universal tray slides are included. To save on energy usage, the Cook & Hold oven uses the lowest power requirement available.

Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe

In this week’s video, Chef Jason shows you how to make a roasted whole chicken with rosemary-garlic compound butter using the SecoSelect Cook & Hold Oven. After putting the compound on the chicken and making sure it’s spread evenly, Chef Jason puts the dish in the oven and slow roasts it for two and a half hours.

“This oven delivers a chicken that not only tastes delicious, but it looks amazing,” he says.

In the video, you can watch Chef Jason prepare the roasted chicken and use the Cook & Hold Oven. Learn more about Seco’s Cook & Hold Ovens and buy straight from Central’s website.

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Foodservice Industry News Week in Brief: June 14

Emily Rollins — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:29:28 +0000

Looking for the latest foodservice industry news? Check out the latest news stories, plus this week’s recipe, blogs and promotion from Central for the week of June 10-14.

Foodservice Industry News

Recipe of the Week

June 14th marks National Strawberry Shortcake Day! What better way to celebrate than whipping up this sweet dessert! Strawberry Shortcake has been around for ages, but the first published recipe dates back to 1847. The recipe has been tweaked a bit, but after all these years it’s basically the same now as it was back then!

We’ve found a few strawberry shortcake recipes for you to celebrate tonight. Be sure to tell us how it was in the comments!

Blog Posts

Current Promotions

Lowest Prices and Free Shipping on Hobart and Traulsen.

Hobart and Traulsen are industry leading foodservice equipment manufacturers that have been around 75+ years. As an added bonus, any Hobart or Traulsen item we have in stock in our warehouse can be shipped the same day if the order is placed by 5 p.m. (EDT). Read more on our blog, or request a free catalog.

Mobile Website for Smartphone Users

Have you checked out our new mobile site yet? It has convenient features and best of all, it allows you to shop online anytime, anywhere. The foodservice industry isn’t a nine to five job, and really, who has time to sit at a desk anymore to order restaurant equipment? Check out all the details on our new mobile site on our blog.

Other Savings

Let us know if you’d like a copy of our catalog and we’ll be sure to get it to you as soon as possible.

To keep up with the latest, subscribe to Central’s email list and get exclusive benefits such as special discounts, new product alerts and even early access to our clearance list.

Did you know? We’ve joined Instagram! Follow us at centralrestaurantproducts!

Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or recommend us on Google+ for other daily foodservice news throughout the week!

Also, be sure to check out our Pinterest boards and watch videos on our YouTube channel.

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Central’s Picks for School Foodservice Equipment and Supplies

Tracey Rector — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:00:21 +0000

School Foodservice Equipment and Supplies

Many school foodservices have shut down for the 2012-2013 school year, but others have started summer breakfast and lunch programs. Even though a foodservice may still be serving food, summer break is an ideal time to replace any old equipment or get new items for the 2013-2014 school year. Here are some of Central’s picks for updating or upgrading.

Central’s Picks

Medium Weight Windsor and Dominion Flatware

Both lines of flatware are elegant but affordable, which helps school foodservices replace an entire line. It’s constructed of 18/0 stainless steel which mean it’s composed of 18 percent chromium and zero percent of nickel. It has a higher shine and can be used with magnetic tableware retrievers and scrap blocks. Use this buying guide for assistance on estimating how much is needed.

Economy Bib Aprons

Aprons are a staple to school foodservices. These aprons in particular have an adjustable neckband, a pocket for a pen or thermometer, waist ties and are constructed of a durable 65/35 poly/cotton blend.

Hair Nets and Gloves

Every school foodservice requires hair nets. These hair nets in particular are lightweight, fire retardant and are one size fits all.

With gloves, there are a few different types depending on your foodservice’s preference: poly disposable, vinyl or “latex-like.” Poly disposable gloves are economical and have a poly construction for right or left hand use. They aren’t as fitted and are ideal for made to order locations where food and money are handled by the same person. (But don’t take money then make someone else a sandwich without changing gloves!) Vinyl gloves fit a hand more snugly but are still easy to put on and take off. They are lightly powdered and can be used for right or left hand use. For those with allergies, the “latex-like” gloves are ideal. They offer all the advantages of latex minus the allergic reaction.

Central Exclusive Plastic Tumblers

This line of tumblers is popular with colleges but are great for any school foodservice. Plus, since they’re a Central exclusive, foodservices can get a quality item without having to pay the quality price. They have tapered sides and stacking lugs to prevent sticking and increase airflow. This also helps decrease the risk of bacterial growth. They are constructed of SAN plastic, which has a higher chemical and heat resistance–making them dishwasher safe.

GET Supermel Dinnerware

Colleges in particular love to order this type of dinnerware. It’s all purpose, so it can be used any time of day, plus it’s constructed of a scratch and break resistant melamine. It dries quickly and is resistant to food acids and chemicals. It can also withstand temperatures up to 200°F and is also dishwasher safe. Our availability includes a range of cups, saucers, bowls, plates, platters and compartment trays.

Rubbermaid Water Coolers

School foodservice purchases aren’t restricted to the cafeteria. Rubbermaid’s water coolers (five or 10 gallon) are great to have for gym classes, outdoor projects and activities and athletics. Or, they are also great to have in a cafeteria to make it easy for students to get water. Rubbermaid’s water coolers are constructed of a durable, crack resistant polyethylene exterior. They are insulated to keep beverages cool and have an easy-to-use spigot to dispense. Another bonus to these water coolers is the fact they’re leak resistant and have carry handles for easy transport.

Flatware Holders and Cylinders

Central has stainless steel and plastic flatware holders and cylinders, which allows flatware to dry in the vertical position.

Leaving flatware on it’s side doesn’t make for a very sanitary situation as lipids, acids and chemicals are laying on each other.

The stainless steel holders have a stainless steel construction with rubber feed for stabilization. They’re also dishwasher safe. Plastic flatware holders and cylinders are heavy duty and long wearing.

Cal-Mil Bulk Cereal Dispensers

These cereal dispensers are extremely helpful when it comes to holding and serving large amounts of cereal. They make it even easier for refilling. These dispensers have a clear, acrylic construction and include suction cups for stability. They are also stackable and dispense from the bottom to reduce messes. These dispensers are stackable and include a scoop.

Traulsen Reach-Ins

Traulsen’s reach-ins are especially great for schools because they cost less to run and maintain. They also save on food loss and are built to last. Their “load-safe guard” protects from overloading and have a large usable interior that can hold full-size sheet pans.

In Need of Assistance?

These are just a few of our picks, Central has hundreds of products ideal for school foodservices. Call a product consultant for more information or help at 800-222-2105. Also, don’t forget the second phase of the school nutrition guidelines rolls out on July 1. Catch up on all the details on our blog School Nutrition Guideline Revisions for the 2013-2014 school year.

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Wordless Wednesday: Grosfillex Outdoor Fencing at Back Yard Burgers

Tracey Rector — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:00:40 +0000

Grosfilex outdoor fencing at Back Yard Burgers in Senatobia, MS.

The post Wordless Wednesday: Grosfillex Outdoor Fencing at Back Yard Burgers appeared first on Restaurant Supply & Restaurant Equipment Blog.

Father’s Day Promotional Ideas & Specials

Emily Rollins — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:30:24 +0000

Just like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is an extremely busy weekend for the restaurant industry, and a great way to make some extra profit. If you plan your specials right, your weekend will be filled with guests who will want to visit again. Your restaurant will want to plan out some specials, along with promotional ideas for a successful holiday weekend so here are some ideas to help.

Promotional Ideas

1. Plan your specials around the holiday

Think about what dads usually want to eat on Father’s Day, whether it be a steak dinner or an Italian feast. Depending on what your restaurant serves, aim your special menu towards the day. To ease the pain of having to deal with two menus, only use one set menu so the kitchen staff won’t be overwhelmed with things to cook. The better your service is, the more pleased your guests will be!

2. Start advertising now!

The only way to get customers in your restaurant’s doors is through advertising. You may think that putting ads up and in newspapers or magazines is expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Create an event page on Facebook, and tell your fans to spread the world. Print out a flyer and post them around town. You could also have your waitstaff tell customers about the upcoming promotion when they visit.

3. Give potential customers a reason to visit

There will be many other restaurants competing for Father’s Day business, so give potential customers a reason to visit. Why choose your restaurant over every other one? Some ideas include having every family’s picture taken while dining, give out coupons for discounts off of future visits or teaming up with other business for discounts off of oil changes, a round of golf — anything that a dad would want and could potentially use!

4. Preoccupy the children

It is Father’s Day after all, so it’s a good idea to have something to preoccupy the children that will be dining with family. No one wants to sit next to a table with loud, unruly kids! Print off pictures and give out crayons so children can color, or give construction paper so kids can make cards for their fathers.

5. Keep customers coming back

This goes along with giving customers a reason to visit. You want them to have an enjoyable experience at your restaurant, but you also want them to come dine with you again. After their meal has finished, stick a coupon or two into their bill. Coupons could offer a percentage off of their next visit, or even a simple free drink – the choice is up to you!

2013 Specials

Looking for a place to take Dad out on Sunday? Here are some specials or freebies restaurants are offering on June 16th. Keep checking back for updates!

IKEA: Dads receive a free breakfast plate and cup of coffee until 11:00 a.m. on Sunday
Buca di Beppo: $10 off a $20 minimum purchase coupon until June 16th. All Dads receive a free cannoli for Father’s Day
First Watch Daytime Cafe: All Dad’s receive a free bottle of maple syrup on June 16th
TCBY: Free yogurt for all dads on Father’s Day
Beef O’ Brady’s: Dads eat free with the purchase of an entree up to $10 (no coupon needed)
The Loop Pizza & Grill: Free meal for Dad with the purchase of a meal
Spaghetti Warehouse: Free lasagne or original recipe spaghetti with coupon at lunch or dinner for dads!
Boston Market: Buy one BBQ Ribs individual Meal and get another free on Sunday, June 16th
Caribou Coffee: Buy one drink and get another free with coupon on Father’s Day
Hooters: Buy 10 wings, get 10 free wings for Dad
Firehouse Subs: Free medium sub for Dad with coupon
Shoney’s: Dads receive hot fudge cake dessert with an entree purchase

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Hobart 3000 Series Slicer Provides Precision and Ease in the Kitchen

Tracey Rector — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:31:29 +0000

Hobart 3000 Series Slicer

Watch a video about the Hobart 3000 series slicer

Shop online

When Hobart came out with the Hobart 3000 series slicer, one of their main goals was to make it easy to use. After all, the kitchen is a busy place and often things aren’t done properly because people feel they don’t have enough time. (Cleaning being a major culprit). But it doesn’t stop there, this slicer’s precision provides opportunities to do things with food that wasn’t possible before.

Cleaning and Sanitation

Cleaning with the Hobart 3000 series is a breeze, especially since the blade can be removed in a matter of seconds. The blade of the knife isn’t exposed which makes cleaning more safe. Plus, the removable ring guard cover catches any food debris and can be washed in a warewasher or three compartment sink. This slicer also includes a top mounted Borazon stone sharpener which is a single action operation utilizing two Borazon stones (that have a lifetime guarantee) to sharpen and hone in five seconds. These too are removable and warewash safe.

The Hobart 3000 has Microban® antimicrobial protection. The Mircoban additive lasts the lifetime of the product and is built into the external plastic components which inhibits growth of stain and order that can cause organism.

Johnny Iuzzini

Executive Pastry Chef of Jean George in New York City, Johnny Iuzzini, loves his Hobart 3000 series slicer, and it’s provided him the opportunity to prepare foods he hadn’t been able to before. In a video he worked on with Hobart, Iuzzini prepared a carrot cake with crispy brown butter, crisp carrot, cream cheese ice cream graham struzel with a carrot ginger fluid gel.

“Everything in the kitchen is about consistency,” he said. “So to have a piece of equipment in our kitchen that’s so precise makes all the difference.”

For this demonstration, he used the slicer for the crispy carrots and brown buttered gel.

“It couldn’t have been done without this slicer,” he said. He was able to slice them so thin but they stayed together.

He also commended the slicer holding air tight and he didn’t have to use his hands.

“What’s great is how smooth the slide is from front to back,” Iuzzini said. “I’m able to get the length of the carrot in one steady movement.” This applies to anything he has sliced and he is happy with his latest addition to his family.

In the video, you can watch him prepare the dish and clean the unit. Interested? Learn more about the Hobart 3000 series and buy straight from Central’s website.

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Foodservice Industry News Week in Brief: June 7

Tracey Rector — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:12:42 +0000

Looking for the latest foodservice industry news? Check out the latest news stories, plus this week’s recipe, blogs and promotion from Central for the week of June 3-7.