Microwave Masters March 2018

Microwave Masters

Please attribute any quotes from this information to Ray Hall, Managing Director, RH Hall

RH Hall have been dominating the microwave market for 40 years, building extensive knowledge of this kitchen essential. The company is highly regarded and reliable – with in-house Sales, Customer Service and Technical teams. The UK’s largest, most innovative microwave supplier – RH Hall stock only models from leading brands.

Microwaves are an essential part of any commercial kitchen and the latest technology means today’s machines are sophisticated and easy to use – producing excellent results in a fraction of the time it takes conventional methods. From Sharp – chosen by the UK’s Leading Operators, to the Maestrowave range – which includes affordable options such as the MW10, as well as innovative solutions such as iWave and the Combi Chef 7, RH Hall can offer the latest, most versatile products – as well as independent, unbiased advice on the best machine to suit the needs of any operator.

Innovation is crucial in today’s demanding market and RH Hall work with many of the UK’s leading foodservice chain operators to produce bespoke solutions, offering optimum results. 

RH Hall also regularly work with food suppliers and chefs on menu creations at their development kitchen, creating and adapting menus.

RH Hall operate through a national network of 1,400+ approved dealers, along with dedicated National Account and Food Solutions divisions, ensuring they always have the right person on hand to deal with any enquiry! 

So for all your microwave oven and foodservice equipment needs you only need one number – 01296 663400! You can also email sales@rhhall.com or visit our website www.rhhall.com

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

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

BBQ Feature March 2018

BBQ FEATURE SLTN MARCH 15TH 2018

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

What are the benefits to pubs and bars of hosting outdoor BBQ events?
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. 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 are the key pieces of kit required to execute a successful al fresco BBQ in the on trade?
For any outdoor cooking set up, the most important piece of equipment to get right is the Barbecue itself! 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 stainless steel 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.

What should operators look for in a BBQ?
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.

Do you offer any financing or hire options for the on trade?
We are able to offer a wide range of purchasing options including rental, hire, and leasing.


What maintenance should a venue’s staff undertake to make sure BBQs stay in top condition throughout the warmer 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 maneuvered for storage and purchase a purpose built cover for extra protection when not in use.

What top best practice tips can you offer licensees for providing a great BBQ offer?
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 YouTube 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 Smithemma.smith@rhhall.com01296 663400

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Crown Verity BBQs

BBQ Season is nigh with Crown Verity BBQs

Please attributes any quotes to Ben Bartlett, R H Hall Crown Verity BBQ Ambassador

The changes in weather in the last few years have kept us all on our toes and to be honest, any season is now Barbecue Season, especially with a Crown Verity BBQ from R H Hall.

Having the best BBQ equipment is a must and Crown Verity is right up at the top of the best of the best. With summer supposed to be getting closer now is the time to get ready for a busy BBQ season and RH Hall is the place any business should go if they want to BBQ better this year. Crown Verity is the best of the best, solid, robust and reliable and perfect for BBQing all year round, not just when the weather is good.

It is time to get your BBQ ready and that means either buying a shiny new BBQ or giving your current one a dust off and service. Getting ready for BBQ season sooner rather than later is the best advice any serious or commercial BBQer could receive. There is nothing worse than getting to the first perfect barbecue weather day and finding out there is something not right with your grill.  Whether you have a built-in Barbecues such as the Crown Verity BI30 or smaller portable Barbecue such as the amazing and very compact Crown Verity MCB30PACK you need to check your grill over.

Here are the top 4 things to do to prepare your BBQ for the forthcoming season

Clean and Scrub

You would never cook with dirty pots and pans inside so why would you cook on a dirty grill? The most important thing to do once your BBQ comes out of hibernation is to give it a thorough clean. This means more than just wiping it down with a damp cloth. Your BBQ say, gathered dust and any fat left on from last use has now congealed and taken on a life of its own. Really give the BBQ a scrub down and if you can throw the grills in the dishwasher for a good clean. If you find anything is damaged now is the time to replace the parts.

Hoses and Tubes

The next vital thing to do is to inspect all the hoses and tubes and replace them if necessary.

Check for corrosion and rust

Rusty or corroded gas bottles can become death traps. Checking for rust is an important safety check you must do regularly. Remember, safety is the number one priority when it comes to BBQ maintenance and use.

Test Run.

Finally, once cleaned and inspected comes the step that every BBQ Chef loves. A full test run of your BBQ prior to the season starting. This makes a superb excuse to invite a few choice customers and have a small party out of your BBQ test. Once this is done you are as good as ready to cook for as many summer days as you can.

If all the above fails and the BBQ really has gone to Barbecue Heaven or is just unsafe to use get in touch with R H Hall and tell them, you need a new Crown Verity BBQ. You will be in safe hands!

Ben Bartlett FBII, MCGC, MCGB

Crown Verity BBQ Ambassador

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Ovens & Microwaves Feature, Hotel F&B - February 2018

OVENS & MICROWAVES FEATURE

HOTEL F&B FEBRUARY 2018

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

Tell us about your latest piece of microwave technology.A subject of current discussion in the microwave market is the use of RF Solid State cooking technology, which provides far better and more consistent power control, along with many other benefits. The cost of this technology is currently very high, but we will see it introduced to the market in time. Manufacturers are always looking for new and innovative ways that microwave technology can be used. The Combination Microwave market is continuing to grow – with these clever machines offering the speed of microwave cooking, combined with the versatility of more conventional methods. Many also include pre-programmable menu facilities, such as the Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 which includes Menu Creator 2.0™, allowing users to set up to 99 different menu settings and deploy these to as many machines as required via SD card – ensuring total consistency. We are currently seeing rapid progress with Combination Microwave technology and expect to see imminent changes in this area – we are currently working with some major manufacturers in developing the next generation! The use of barcodes with microwave cooking continues to be exclusively marketed and developed by iWave. The company are currently planning an addition to the range which will be designed to appeal to the wider catering market. Keep an eye on www.maestrowave.com for the latest news.

What factors should caterers consider before choosing their type of oven?

To choose the right kind of equipment, operators should look at their menu what tasks it should undertake. Consider if it is 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! 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 homepage. 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.

How important is it to have easy to use oven equipment on site, especially for after hours
room service menus and low skilled operators?

Models with manual controls are incredibly straightforward to use and offer an out of the box solution for unskilled kitchen staff. However, these models can sometimes lack the advanced features that have become available in recent years. A touchpad, programmable model may seem daunting at first glance but provided this is set up correctly from the start it can actually be the most straightforward option. With the correct programme settings, a touchpad machine will ensure consistent results and help to prevent user error.


R H Hall are the Sole UK distributor for Sharp Professional Microwave Ovens.
For more information:www.rhhall.com www.maestrowave.com


FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smithemma.smith@rhhall.com01296 663400

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Microwaves & Ovens Educatering Feb 2018

MICROWAVES & OVENS

EDUCATERING FEBRUARY 2018

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

How useful are microwaves in a school kitchen?
Microwaves are essential for speed of service – considerably faster than conventional ovens andthey also allow an operator to offer a wider choice of menu. Their versatility also providesadvantages 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 deskilled 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.


Can schools with small meal numbers produce a full menu using a modern microwave? 
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.

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

What are the latest technologies in microwaves and ovens that are suited to schools? 
Leading brands are developing models with new features and functionality in response to customers looking for product innovation. Perfect as an entry level introduction to microwave cooking, 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 marryingof 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.

Website for more info www.rhhall.com & www.maestrowave.com

R H Hall are sole UK distributors for the Sharp range of Commercial Microwave Ovens, as well as
Exclusive Worldwide Distributors for the Maestrowave range of Catering Equipment.


FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smithemma.smith@rhhall.com01296 663400

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

Light Equipment Catering Insight Feb 2018

LIGHT EQUIPMENT FOCUS

CATERING INSIGHT FEBRUARY 2018

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


What advantages do high-speed ovens have over competitor technology such as combi ovens or
microwaves?
High-speed combination microwaves offer a great deal more versatility than standard microwaves, combining conventional cooking methods such as convection and grill, with microwave speed. This enables operators to cook a greater variety of menu items, including those not usually associated with microwave cooking – such as pastry items, pies, pizza and paninis. In addition, they have a compact footprint, making them ideal for premises that are short on space, ‘grab & go’ and on-demand establishments, such as coffee shops.

How do you ensure that in a portable format, the ovens have sufficient power and reliability?In order to operate from a ‘plug & play’ 13 amp power supply, the balance of microwave and convection cooking is paramount. Often, when operating in combination mode, the advertised microwave or oven wattage will be reduced to allow for 13 amp operation.

What should be the top considerations for dealers looking to specify a high-speed plug and play oven?Firstly, look at the menu items being prepared and consider the key cooking methods required to achieve optimum results. Many high-speed ovens use microwave and convection heat only, so consider if grill functionality is required. Combination microwaves also require a higher investment than a standard microwave, so additional time should be taken to ensure that the right unit is supplied. Look for a supplier who can provide demonstrations and training, and perhaps food trials and pre-programming for larger chain operators. The Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 utilizes a combination of microwave, convection, and grill to provide outstanding results, with Menu Creator™ software providing 99 menu settings for consistency – all at an affordable price. A video showing the key features of this model is available at rhhall.com

Where do you think the accelerated cooking equipment market is heading?As technology moves forward, more suppliers will be looking to offer their high-speed ovens with a 13 amp option – offering more versatility and market opportunities for this equipment. One example of this is the Electrolux Speedelight High-Speed Panini Grill, with a 13amp version of this already popular solution being launched in 2018. R H Hall will continue to offer an exclusive package for this item – including demonstrations, food testing, on-site training, and installation.
Another subject of current discussion is the use of RF Solid State cooking technology, which provides far better and more consistent power control, along with many other benefits. The cost of this technology is currently very high, but we will see it introduced to the market in time. The use of barcodes with microwave cooking continues to be exclusively marketed and developed by iWave. The company are currently planning an addition to the range which will be designed to appeal to the wider catering market. Keep an eye on www.maestrowave.com for the latest news.


R H Hall are Exclusive Worldwide Distributors for the Maestrowave Combi Chef 7 and
approved suppliers for the Electrolux Speedelight High-Speed Grill.

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


FOR PRESS INFORMATION CONTACT:
Emma Smithemma.smith@rhhall.com01296 663400

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com

2018 Spring Promotion!

OUR SPRING PROMOTION HAS BEGUN!

Don't miss out earn 1000's of vouchers with our Key Brands! Make sure you register to receive your vouchers. Full line up here...bit.ly/1jdg7af 

Follow us on twitter @rhhallcatering

RHHall, Hallco House, Beacon Court, Pitstone Green Business Park, Pitstone LU7 9FE

T: 01296 663 400 E: sales@rhhall.com W: www.rhhall.com