Half-Size Catering Pans: What's In A Name?

Half-size catering pans, also known as steam table pans, are a kitchen essential for storing, transporting, and serving food. They are commonly used in the food service industry and for catering, measuring approximately 12 3/4 by 10 3/8. These pans are typically made of durable aluminum foil, with a full curl rim, and are designed for easy stacking and transportation. They are perfect for cooking, storing, and serving a variety of dishes, including sides, entrees, appetizers, and desserts. Half-size catering pans are also available in different depths, such as medium depth, deep, and extra deep, to accommodate different needs.

Half-size catering pans are used for cooking, storing, and serving food

Half-size catering pans, also known as steam table pans, are a kitchen essential for cooking, storing, and serving food. They are commonly used in the catering industry and food service for their convenience and versatility. Here are some key points about half-size catering pans:

Dimensions and Capacity

Half-size catering pans typically measure 12 inches by 10 inches, which is half the size of a full-size pan. This means two half pans can fit into the same space as one full-size pan. They are perfect for side dishes, salads, and smaller entrées. The capacity of a half-size pan varies depending on its depth, but they generally hold between 100 and 120 fluid ounces.

Uses

Half-size catering pans are extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks in commercial kitchens. They are ideal for cooking, storing, and serving food, all in the same container. This makes them efficient and reduces cleanup time. They are commonly used for baking, roasting, grilling, and food preparation. Additionally, they are perfect for catering events, as they are disposable and recyclable, making cleanup quick and easy.

Materials

Half-size catering pans are typically made of durable materials such as aluminum foil or stainless steel. Aluminum foil pans are often disposable and recyclable, making them a popular choice for catering and events. They are also affordable and convenient. Stainless steel pans, on the other hand, are more durable and long-lasting. They are suitable for a range of temperatures, from freezer to oven, and are easy to clean.

Benefits

Half-size catering pans offer several benefits to commercial kitchens and caterers. They are stackable, which maximizes space efficiency during storage and transport. They are also designed to withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion, making them suitable for use in ovens and steam tables. Additionally, their disposable nature can save time and effort on cleanup, especially when catering large events.

In conclusion, half-size catering pans are a versatile and essential tool for cooking, storing, and serving food in commercial kitchens and catering businesses. They offer convenience, efficiency, and durability, making them a popular choice for food preparation and service.

They are made from durable aluminium foil

Catering pans, also known as steam table pans, are available in a variety of materials, including durable aluminium foil. Aluminium foil is a popular choice for catering pans due to its durability, strength, and ability to withstand high temperatures. These pans are often used for cooking, storing, and serving food, and their disposable nature makes cleanup a breeze.

Aluminium foil catering pans are commonly found in the food service industry and are perfect for catering events, barbeques, and baking. They offer efficiency, as you can prep, cook, serve, and store food all in one convenient pan. The pans are also recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly option.

The gauge of aluminium foil used for these catering pans ensures their durability. For example, the Disposable Aluminum Foil Half Size Steam Table Pan by KitchenDance is made of 40-gauge aluminium, providing strength and durability for various uses. This particular pan is commonly used in the food service industry and catering and is perfect for barbeque meats, casseroles, and cakes.

Another example is the Catering Essentials Half Size Deep Foil Steam Table Pan, which comes in a pack of 30. These durable aluminium pans are suitable for a variety of cooking and catering needs. Customers have praised their quality, value, versatility, and ease of cleaning.

Aluminium foil catering pans are an excellent choice for anyone in the food service industry, offering convenience, efficiency, and durability. With their recyclable and disposable nature, these pans provide a hassle-free option for cooking, storing, and serving food.

They are suitable for casual catered events

Half-size catering pans, also known as foil steam table pans, are suitable for casual catered events. They are commonly used in the food service industry and are perfect for barbeque meats, casseroles, cakes, and more. They are also ideal for cooking, storing, and serving appetizers, sides, entrees, and desserts.

Half-size catering pans are typically made of aluminum foil and come in various depths, such as medium, deep, and extra deep. They are disposable, making cleanup quick and easy, and some are even recyclable. The pans can also be purchased in bulk, making them a cost-effective option for casual catered events.

The dimensions of a half-size catering pan are typically around 12 3/4" x 10 3/8", which is half the size of a full-size food pan in the foodservice industry. They are designed to be stackable, maximizing space efficiency during storage and transportation.

Customers who have purchased half-size catering pans appreciate their convenience, sturdiness, and suitability for a variety of foods. They are valued for their size, ease of cleanup, and affordability, making them a popular choice for casual catered events.

They are disposable and recyclable

Half-size catering pans are disposable and recyclable, offering a convenient and eco-friendly solution for a variety of events and occasions. These pans are typically made from aluminum foil, ensuring durability and efficient heat distribution during cooking. They are ideal for catering services, restaurants, bakeries, and home use, providing a versatile option for preparing, cooking, serving, and storing food.

The disposable nature of these half-size catering pans offers a hassle-free cleanup, as they can be simply disposed of after use. This feature is especially useful for large events, catering services, and busy kitchens, eliminating the need for time-consuming dishwashing. The recyclability of these pans also contributes to environmental sustainability, reducing waste and promoting the reuse of materials.

Half-size catering pans are available in various pack sizes, ranging from 10 to 400 pans per pack. This makes them suitable for both small gatherings and large-scale events. The pans are often sold with complementary lids, which facilitate stacking for transit and maintain the temperature of the food. The lids also create a reliable seal, preventing spills during transportation.

These disposable and recyclable pans are designed with functionality and convenience in mind. They are commonly used for roasting, cooking, reheating, catering, parties, barbecues, and baking. The pans' ability to withstand high temperatures makes them suitable for use in ovens and steam tables, as well as for cold storage. Their versatility extends to the variety of foods they can accommodate, including meats, casseroles, cakes, desserts, and sides.

Overall, the disposability and recyclability of half-size catering pans make them a practical and environmentally-conscious choice for a wide range of users, from professional caterers to home cooks. They simplify the cleanup process and reduce the time spent on dishwashing, allowing users to focus on creating delicious dishes and enjoying their events.

They are also available in different depths

Catering pans, also known as "steam table pans", come in a variety of sizes and depths. The standard sizes are full, two-thirds, half, third, quarter, sixth, and ninth pans, with full pans measuring roughly 12 inches by 20 inches, and half pans measuring roughly 12 inches by 10 inches.

The depth of a catering pan is an important consideration as it determines the number of servings the pan can hold. The most common depths for hotel pans are 2 inches, 4 inches, 6 inches, and 8 inches. However, they are also available in smaller increments of 1/2 inch or 1/4 inch.

For example, a "100" pan is approximately 1 inch deep, while a "200" pan is approximately 2 inches deep. This numbering system originated from old manufacturing practices where items were referred to by their stock number.

When choosing a catering pan, it is also important to consider the type of material. Stainless steel, plastic, melamine, polypropylene plastic, polycarbonate, cast aluminum, and foil are common materials used for catering pans. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, heat retention, and cost-effectiveness.

Additionally, catering pans can be found with different features such as perforations for steaming or drainage, decorative designs, anti-jam edges, and easy pour corners. Lids and serving utensils are also available as accessories to complete your catering setup.

Overall, catering pans are a versatile and essential tool for any commercial kitchen, offering efficient storage, transportation, and serving options for a variety of foods.

Frequently asked questions