BBQ & Outdoor Feature: SLTN March/April 2017

BBQ & OUTDOOR FEATURE

SLTN APRIL MARCH 2ND 2017

Please attributes any quotes to Ray Hall, Managing Director, R H Hall

Is it worthwhile for operators to review their outdoor equipment ahead of the summer months?
Barbecues may not previously have been seen as an essential item, but outdoor eating is a growing area of the UK market and operators should be taking the opportunities for extra revenue that barbecues can provide seriously. Provided some sort of outdoor area is available, any establishment can quickly and easily set up a barbecue for use almost immediately.

The trade is under a lot of pressure, cost-wise, at present. Why should operators invest in new equipment when trying to keep costs down?
Cooking outdoors can become a regular feature during the Spring and Summer months, and perhaps even further with the right equipment! Barbecue menus can provide a great focus for special events such as bank holidays, but can also provide a great source of extra income every weekend. Few can resist the smell of a barbecue on a summer afternoon and caterers can offer a simple barbecue menu without a great deal of expense or planning, providing they have the right equipment in place. Outdoor events also often bring in new customers, particularly on sunny days.

What advice can you give with regard to purchasing new equipment for the outdoor area of a licensed premises?
For any outdoor cooking set up, the most important piece of equipment to get right is the Barbecue itself! First and foremost, caterers should ensure that they are purchasing truly commercial equipment. Many domestic barbecues look the part, but will not last or be able to recover quickly during a busy service. Look for a Barbecue that uses commercial grade stainless steel (be wary that many domestic models use stainless steel but are of light duty construction) and also check out the grid racks - stainless steel work much better than coated ones that invariably chip and flake off in time. Look for good portability as many barbecues have poorly constructed wheels. Importantly, ensure the product comes with a full commercial warranty. Some have a lifetime guarantee! Remember that you would not buy a domestic cooker for your commercial kitchen so apply the same thought process for your outdoor Barbecue.
Provided some sort of outdoor area is available, any establishment can quickly and easily set up a barbecue for use almost immediately. Charcoal and Gas options are available, with gas options using portable gas cylinders. Operators should also consider some kind of portable hand wash station and also prep/serving areas to avoid constant back & forth to the main kitchen. The Crown Verity range includes both simple charcoal barbecues and versatile, portable gas options. Also available in the CVEHS hand wash station and the range can easily be paired with Simply Stainless Modular Fabrication to create a complete outdoor kitchen!
With the Crown Verity Professional Barbecue range, operators can either create their own BBQ Station by combining a barbecue with prep areas, refrigeration and even branding – or look at ready made options, such as the MBI80 which includes a 36” barbecue with side burner and storage.

Is there anything operators can do to ‘weather proof’ their outdoor equipment in the event of wet weather?
Operators should always ensure they are prepared for traditional English weather! By creating covered seating areas with gazebos and marquees, customers will still be able to enjoy outdoor events – just make sure that if any entertainment is available, these seated areas provide an easy view – and also that the BBQ itself is positioned elsewhere to prevent any smoke or excessive food odours.

What maintenance/upkeep is required to ensure equipment remains in top condition throughout the summer months?
Regular maintenance and cleaning will help to prolong the life of your equipment, so it is very important that all staff are aware and capable of performing essential daily tasks. Look for products that are easy to clean and maintain – removable parts such as grease traps, particularly on barbecues, are invaluable.
Also consider that extra measures should be taken for equipment that will be stored outside. Look for equipment that can be easily manoeuvred for storage and purchase a purpose built cover for extra protection when not in use

Do you have any top tips for hosting barbecue events over the Summer?
Events can be kept as simple as firing up the BBQ on a Summers day, but can also be enhanced with live music or family entertainment to increase the draw. The bigger the event, the more planning will be required. Advertising locally with posters and banners is likely to draw attention – and also ensuring regular customers are aware of the event in advance, so they can spread the word! If the weather forecast is looking good and large numbers are expected, operators should ensure staff levels are considered and also ensure the bar is well stocked – when the sun comes out, record sales can be achieved! It almost goes without saying, but make sure the BBQ has been fired up in advance and if recently purchased, ensure that the chef has tested his menu prior to the event.
Traditional barbecue foods such as burgers, sausages and steaks will always be a hit with customers and very few will be able to resist the smell of a barbecue on a summer afternoon. The Crown Verity MCB range includes models capable of cooking anything from 210 – 560 burgers per hour, with a grill to suit to output of any user!
However, events such as the British BBQ Battle demonstrate that Barbecue cooking need not be restricted to food served in a bun! Chefs from across the industry have been able to turn out very impressive 3 course menu’s year after year and with a little bit of creative thinking venues can offer exciting menu options to appeal to a wide range of customers. Past BBQ Champion, Ben Bartlett, regularly demonstrates innovative ways to spice up your BBQ menu – Follow him on Twitter - @bbqben1 – for the latest news.

The Crown Verity range of Professional Barbecue systems includes a wide range of accessories such as griddles, steam pans and additional side burners to allow a vast and varied menu.

For more information:
www.rhhall.com, www.crownverity.com or our You Tube channel for videos showing the versatility of the Crown Verity range.
R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for the Crown Verity range of Professional Barbecue Systems

FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smith
emma.smith@rhhall.com
01296 663400

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Pancake Day!

It's Pancake Day!!

It's #PancakeDay take a look at our Pancake Pinterest board for ideas to make scrummy pancakes!  Follow our Pinterest page http://bit.ly/28NktW2 

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

New Product: Smeg ALFA43XUK

New Product Infomation: Smeg ALFA43XUK Oven

The new model replaces the best selling ALFA43UK and is said to provide a compact solution for any bake off or catering requirement.

Suitable for baking and reheating – from pastries and morning goods, to sausage rolls and pasties – this new now includes a fully stainless steel outer cabinet, said to make it more hard wearing and durable.

Don't miss out on reading the Catering Insight article. - http://bit.ly/2kPPhqj

Order yours online today - bit.ly/2laripw 

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Working with R H Hall

Working with R H Hall                             Want to work with the UK's Largest Independent Foodservice Distributor? As our business grows, so does our team - we are always striving to find dynamic and concientious individuals to join our successful team and provide support to our customers. With roles ranging from Administration Assistants, Service Engineers, Business Development Managers and many more, we offer many varied and interesting roles within the company, covering a wide range of skills. We are an ISO registered company, Investor in People and an equal opportunities employer. Our packages combine great prospects and excellent job security, as well as competitive salaries and many additional benefits. Current vacancies will be posted below. Simply click for more details on the role and how to apply. Area Sales Manager Sales Office Manager Service Assistant Apprentices We are always keen to hear from enthusiastic individuals who are looking to start a career and study whilst they work. Opportunities are available within our Customer Service, Sales, Administration, Finance and Warehouse Teams. Send us your CV, or a letter of interest - either by post or email to jobs@rhhall.com Are you interested in working in the Commerical Catering Equipment industry?  Learn more about the industry here.

Casual Dining 2017

SEE THE LATEST R H HALL INNOVATIONS AT CASUAL DINING!

STAND A208 – BDC, LONDON 22^ND – 23^RD FEBRUARY 2017

Please attribute any quotes to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

Press Information Contact: Emma Smith -  emma.smith@rhhall.com - 01296 663400

Visit R H Hall Foodservice Solutions and see our latest innovations by visiting us at Casual Dining this February. Find us on Stand A208 from 22-23^rd, at the Business Design Centre, Islington.

We will be demonstrating the huge versatility of the award winning Maestrowave Combi Chef 7. Visit us to see the excellent results available from this fast, easy to use, Combination Microwave Oven.

In addition, come and see the New Covent Garden Soup Server in action - A world first from the UK’s No. 1 Chilled Soup Brand - Offering fresh tasting soup anywhere, anytime! Fully automatic and easy to use, earn profit from day one with this complete, innovative, soup serving solution!

In addition, we will be demonstrating the quality and versatility that we can offer with our diverse Exclusive brand portfolio – with the brand new Maestrowave MW10 1000W Microwave, alongside Sharp Microwaves, the innovative iWave system, Smeg Foodservice Ovens, Simply Stainless Modular Fabrications and Crown Verity Professional Barbecue Systems. Our Sales team will be on hand to discuss any requirements.

  

For more details please visit www.rhhall.com

or contact the R H Hall Sales Team – 01296 663400 or sales@rhhall.com

R H Hall are the Exclusive UK Distributor for Sharp Commercial Microwaves, Maestrowave Catering Equipment, Smeg Foodservice Ovens, Simply Stainless Modular Fabrications, Crown Verity Professional Barbecue Systems and the New Covent Garden Soup Server

For more information: www.rhhall.com  www.maestrowave.com

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Ovens & Microwaves: Hotel F&B February 2017

OVENS & MICROWAVES FEATURE
HOTEL F&B FEBRUARY 2017

Please attributes any quotes to Ray Hall, Managing Director, R H Hall

What types of oven are available to hotels?If you could offer one tip to Hotel F&B managers deciding on a new oven unit, what would it be?

There are many choices available on the equipment market for ovens and the unit chosen often comes down to personal preference as well as space and budget restrictions. Whatever the preference, it has to be a versatile and flexible workhorse able to make light work of the most demanding dishes and be able to respond to the on-going changing demands that come with any professional commercial kitchen. Most operations want to offer a varied and attractive food offering and so without a doubt an oven that can ‘multi task’ in response to that will be a good investment.

To help make the right choice, caterers must be clear on the intended use: the volume of throughput; the types of dishes/menu available; variations in service time; staffing skills and find out about the latest features and operational functions before they invest.

Options range from large combination steamers, through bake off ovens and combination microwaves, to simple but essential microwave only.

Microwaves today are split into 2 main categories – standard microwave only, which are perfect for reheating a wide range of foods – and combination microwaves, which offer huge versatility for cooking a wider range of products, with the speed of microwave cooking.

The market leading Sharp range of microwaves available through RH Hall offer heavy and extra heavy duty build quality with total control, flexibility and versatility –with in-built features to save time and energy. The best-selling range goes from 1000W to 1900W to cater for all foodservice applications and are available in both touchpad or manual control versions.

The Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 is able to operate in a variety and combination of cook modes making it the most flexible, efficient and easy to use oven yet! It can bake, roast, grill, steam, defrost, regenerate, microwave, boil or simply keep food warm - this is the oven that can do it all. This high speed oven features Menu Creator 2.0™ software. Packed with features, the oven will produce the best results at the simple touch of a button – a total combination of 11 cooking modes can be used to achieve top quality results. Up to 99 menus can be pre-programmed to ensure consistency time after time. But don’t be daunted, the Menu Creator 2.0™ is extremely easy to use; however, if required, full technical support is available from RH Hall. There is a web video available on line which demonstrates the benefits of combination Microwave ovens - visit www.rhhall.com and follow the link on the home page.

What should caterers consider before buying new equipment?

To choose the right kind of equipment, operators should look at their menu and decide what tasks the oven should undertake. If to be used mainly for the simple reheat and defrosting of foods then a straight Commercial microwave will suffice. However, if you wish to reheat and cook food products then a convection oven or combination microwave oven is well advised. Items such as pastry will become soggy if reheated in an ordinary microwave whereas using a combination microwave the crisp, golden brown and conventional finished result will be achieved in microwave time! It is very important to choose the correct microwave oven wattage. You need to choose an oven with sufficient power, but just as importantly, do not over specify. If too low, you can be frustrated by delays, and if too high,

it will be difficult to judge the timing of small portions. Whilst it is common for caterers to choose speed (the higher the output the faster reheat times), it is also very important to understand that for some food products too much speed will destroy smaller portions of food or the delicate and sugary types of products.

What are the essential features of modern oven equipment?

The Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 has many features to offer including the latest Menu Creator 2.0™ software package, which allows you to ‘create your own menu’ and programme up to 99 menus using any method of oven, microwave, grill or combination and with or without the turbo fan! This oven is the most flexible, efficient and easy to use oven yet and will help you produce the best results ever, in super quick time – it’s really an oven that can do it all and produce consistent results time after time. Fitting into a skilled or non-skilled kitchen with complete ease, this piece of equipment is very easy to operate with sophisticated results being possible within both operations. The model sits on a counter and operates from a single 13 amp supply. We have produced a brand new video showing all the features and benefits of combi cooking using the latest and innovative Maestrowave Combi Chef 7. Simply log on to www.rhhall.com and follow the links from the home page.

Does the name or the brand of the oven being used matter to customers?

If the customer has purchased equipment previously or been in the industry for some time, they may have a preference on the brand of equipment they use due to reputation and past experience. Some brand names, such as Smeg and Sharp, stand out in the industry and many will already be familiar with the brands even without knowledge of commercial equipment. This can provide peace of mind.

How important a role do microwaves play in the modern kitchen?

Microwaves are definitely an essential part of today’s commercial kitchen – essential for speed of service and still allowing an operator to offer a wide choice of menu. Microwaves are also very energy efficient. If simple reheat and defrosting of foods is required then a microwave will suffice, but if an operator wants to reheat and cook food products then a combination microwave convection oven is well advised.

Is there any training required on how to operate the oven units?

Understanding is still the key to success with any cooking. To maximise usage of a microwave or oven effectively, I think it is paramount that all caterers are educated as to the full potential of their unit. By fully understanding a microwave and getting the right techniques for each type of food, succulent meat, poultry and fish together with perfectly cooked vegetables that retain taste, texture and nutritive value are all possible. Many of the techniques used in microwave cooking are the same as used in conventional cooking, but with a few minor adjustments. There is a great deal of diversity of dishes that can be prepared quickly and easily from fresh ingredients. Not only that, but more nutrients are retained in microwave cooked food than by any other cooking method. In fact, correctly cooked vegetables contain 85% of their original vitamin content, when boiled they often contain none! Historically there has been a lot of negativity towards cooking with microwaves, but there shouldn’t be, microwaves can cook great food in a fraction of the time it would take with other methods. Not only do they save time, but money and nutrients too.

We recommend that the correct training of staff on how to use and look after the equipment in the first instance will definitely help the life span of any equipment. In

addition, simple regular low cost maintenance and cleaning will keep it in peak health and condition.

At RH Hall we train our distributors to be able to offer the best advice and training to the end user. Such advice as to when and how to clean the oven, service interval recommendations and the best use of the oven are just part of the training given to customers. We also have an extensive facility at our HQ fitted out with all the very latest equipment so clients and distributors can see and operate a number of microwaves in addition to a very wide range of kitchen equipment.

First and foremost you should look at choosing from a recognised brand – the major manufacturers are often the most innovative and have developed machines with intelligent features that are time/labour saving and energy efficient too. So, choose a leading brand with an established reputation – don’t be tempted to go down the cheap import route.

R H Hall are the Sole UK distributor for Sharp Professional Microwave Ovens and Smeg Foodservice Ovens.

For more information: www.rhhall.com  www.maestrowave.com

Press Information Contact: Emma Smith -  emma.smith@rhhall.com - 01296 663400

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Microwave: Educatering February 2017

MICROWAVES

EDUCATERING FEBRUARY 2017

Please attributes any quotes to Kris Brearley, Sales Director, R H Hall

How useful are microwaves in a school kitchen environment?

Microwaves are essential for speed of service – considerably faster than conventional ovens and they also allow an operator to offer a wider choice of menu. Their versatility also provides advantages and the leading brands are developing models with new features and functionality in response to customers looking for product innovation, so they can be easily operated from a de-skilled base. Microwaves are very energy efficient too. In fact, when cooking vegetables they use three times less energy than that of a gas hob. Their footprint is also smaller than conventional ovens, great where space is at a premium.

How much of a school menu can a microwave cook?

Microwaves offer a quick and convenient tool at any time of the day and can reheat snacks and full meals with ease – perfect for when quick turnarounds are needed, particularly at breakfast or break times. Microwaves are also capable of much more than just reheating foods and by fully understanding their microwave and getting the right techniques for each type of food, succulent meat, poultry and fish together with perfectly cooked vegetables that retain taste, texture and nutritive value are all possible. Many of the techniques used in microwave cooking are the same as used in conventional cooking, but with a few minor adjustments. There are a great diversity of dishes that can be prepared quickly and easily from fresh ingredients. Not only that, but more nutrients are retained in microwave cooked food than by any other cooking method. In fact, correctly cooked vegetables contain 85% of their original vitamin content, when boiled they often contain none! A great benefit especially for growing children where they would only need to eat a little to get more of the vitamins they need. Historically there has been a lot of negativity towards cooking with microwaves, but there shouldn’t be, microwaves can cook great food in a fraction of the time it would take with other methods. Not only do they save time, but money and nutrients too.

Should caterers have a standard microwave or a multifunctional appliance that can do more than one task?

For those requiring more than just speed, the Maestrowave range includes combination microwaves such as the award winning Maestrowave Combi Chef 7. This high speed oven is packed with features including Menu Creator 2.0™ software and produces outstanding results at the touch of a button. A total of 11 combination modes allows huge menu versatility, and up to 99 pre-programmable menus ensure consistency. Menu Creator 2.0™ is incredibly easy to use, but full support is available via the Food Solutions team, who can offer menu development services. A video showing the features & benefits of this innovative product is available at www.rhhall.com

Do microwaves take away the skill/creativity of a school cook?

If used correctly, this should not be the case! Microwaves can introduce speed and efficiency to any kitchen operation, potentially freeing up other kitchen equipment to perform crucial tasks and improving speed of service and output. To maximise usage of a microwave effectively, it is paramount that all cooks/caterers are educated to the full potential of their unit and also receptive to implementing the alternative cooking techniques required. Only then will they be able to fully appreciate the great results that are possible and implement its use more and more in the meals produced by their kitchen.

What are the latest technologies of microwave cooking?

Leading brands are developing models with new features and functionality in response to customers looking for product innovation. Recently launched, the Maestrowave MW10 is a 1000W machine aimed at smaller operators looking for speed with a reliable reputation. The unique microwave distribution and cavity ensure perfect cooking, backed up by an unprecedented 3 Year Warranty on the Magnetron – the heart of the machine!

One key area is not just the equipment itself, but in menu’s and food products too – the marrying of equipment and food/menu developments to get the maximum quality, value for money and labour saving solutions. We have been working with leading food producers and packaging companies to develop dishes specifically for microwave regeneration. The revolutionary iWave® Foodservice Solution uses microwave technology to provide a fully automated, ‘straight to plate’ system. With barcode scanners replacing traditional touchpad or manual controls, the iWave® offers a ‘fool-proof’ solution for certain applications – vending, care homes, hospitals and schools to name just a few. We can work with various food companies to fully test and develop a bespoke menu for any site. With e-reporting options available, stock and budget control can be also managed easily.
Press Information Contact: Emma Smith, Marketing Assistant -  emma.smith@rhhall.com - 01296 663400

Are modern microwaves good at saving energy?

Modern microwaves are incredibly energy efficient and in fact, when cooking vegetables they use three times less energy than that of a gas hob. Most models will operate from a standard 13 amp plug, even with high outputs of up to 1900W.

For more information: www.rhhall.com  www.maestrowave.com

R H Hall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone, Beds, LU7 9GY

T: 01296 663400 F: 01296 663401 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com