Thursday, July 16, 2009

Choose Bakers Racks

Baker's racks provide an effective use of space in either a home or commercial kitchen. Planning for a baker's rack should be minimal, utilizing space that exists within the kitchen. A good baker's rack incorporates a work surface and a place to store baking implements, tools and cookbooks that may otherwise be marred in cupboards and drawers. While there are some that serve only a decorative purpose, buy baker's racks for their utility in food preparation. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions


Planning


1. Measure the width, height and depth of available space. Plan where the baker's rack will be in relation to other baking implements, such as the stove, oven, water and refrigerator.


2. Consider pans, cookbooks, and utensils that you will store on a baker's rack. Decide on the size and type of items you will place on the baker's rack, such as hooks or a book shelf.


3. Decide if you will be using the surface of the baker's rack regularly for the preparation or cooling of baked goods. Consider whether you need for a working surface for rolling out dough or for wire mesh to cool baked goods.


Shopping


4. Take your list of implements you plan to store on the baker's rack, as well as the measurements for the rack itself.


5. Shop at a restaurant supply store if you plan to use the baker's rack frequently for the creation and storage of baked goods. Ensure that the model you select can withstand the weight of the implements you plan to use. Look for weight ratings on modular baker's racks.


6. Measure display models and compare them to your space measurements from home. Be mindful of the placement of the baker's rack, as you may want to place a trash can or a linen stand nearby for quick cleanup.


7. Choose a good working surface. Consider bamboo, butcher-block wood and lightly finished hardwood. Use laminate or acrylic in a commercial kitchen. Choose wire mesh for cooling baked goods.


8. Ensure that the rack has ample space for utensils, pans, and cookbooks if you intend to use them. Utensils should not dangle on the working surface, or the rack will be difficult to use for food preparation.







Tags: baker rack, baked goods, working surface, baked goods Ensure, baking implements, commercial kitchen