Unit: 1 Professional Kitchen and Cooking
Unit: 1 Professional Kitchen and Cooking
Unit: 1 Professional Kitchen and Cooking
UNIT: 1
PROFESSIONAL KITCHEN AND COOKING
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.2 Objectives
1.3 Hygiene in Kitchen
1.3.1 Personal Hygiene
1.3.2 Kitchen Hygiene
1.4 Protective Clothing
1.5 Hierarchy of Kitchen Department
1.5 Classical Kitchen Brigade
1.7 Sections of Kitchen
1.7.1 Larder Section
1.7.2 Sauce Section
1.7.3 Roast Section
1.7.4 Vegetable Section
1.7.5 Soup Section
1.7.6 Indian Section
1.7.7 Pastry Section
1.8 Kitchen Layouts
1.8.1 The single line (or Pullmann) kitchen
1.8.2 The galley kitchen
1.8.3 The L-shape kitchen
1.8.4 The U-shape kitchen
1.8.5 The island kitchen
1.8.6 The G-Shaped Kitchen
1.9 Duties & Responsibilities of Various Chefs in Kitchen
1.9.1 Job description
1.9.2 Design of Job Description
1.9.3 Uses of Job Description
1.9.4 Job description of kitchen staff
1.9.5 Job description of Executive Chef
1.9.6 Job description of Sous Chef
1.9.7 Job description of Pastry Chef
1.9.8 Job description of Kitchen Executive
1.9.9 Job description of Chef de Partie
1.9.10 Job description of Demi-Chef de Partie
1.9.11 Job description of Commis
1.9.12 Job description of Chef Garde Manger
1.10Attributes, Attitude and Etiquettes of Kitchen Personal
1.10.1 Physical Attributes
1.10.2 Work Related Attributes
1.10.3 Attitude of Kitchen Staff
1.10.4 Etiquette of Kitchen Staff
1.11 Coordination of Kitchen with Other Departments
1.12 Summary
1.0 Introduction
The organization of kitchens will vary, mainly due to the size and the type of the
establishment. Obviously, where a kitchen has hundred Chefs preparing for banquets
for up to 1000 people and a lunch and dinner service for 300-400 customers with a la
carte menu, the organization will be quite different from a small restaurant doing thirty
table d'hote lunches or a hospital diet kitchen preparing diets. Even when there are two
kitchens of a similar nature, the internal organization may vary as each Chef de
Cuisine will have his own way of running his kitchen. It has been found most
satisfactory in organizing the work of a kitchen to divide it into "Parties' or "Corners".
The parties system was perfected by Escoffier and it was the result of studying about
the food production and the recipes allocating tasks to different specialists so as to
help produce the more complex dishes regularly, efficiently and swiftly. The kitchen
was divided into sections, each one of which was responsible for a particular
contribution to the entire food production system. In the kind of kitchen Escoffier
organized, the parties system reached the height of complexity because the end-
products had to be of the highest finish and yet be completed to order in rapid
sequence for a substantial number of customers. A set pattern was made. Basically the
principles of kitchen organization represent a standard practice though there are no set
rules for deciding how many sections and how many staff a particular kitchen requires.
Each catering establishment has different factors to be taken into consideration such as
extent of menu, number of persons to be served and management policy.
A large kitchen, which caters for a large number, will have more sections than a
smaller kitchen catering for lesser numbers. The number of staff in a section is
determined by the amount of work to be done and importance of the contribution of
the section to the menus and the skill of work. The base of different kitchen
organizations is taken from the Traditional Kitchen Organization that was pioneered
by Auguste Escoffier, the instigator of the partie or corner system. He had many
sections such as grill, roast, vegetable, fish, sauce, soup, larder, patisseur etc. As
everything was done manually it was necessary but now the sections have become
fewer, because of labour-saving machines, convenience foods and combined catering
equipment (microwave cum convection ovens, etc.), and the changing of public taste,
which seeks simpler menus and meals.
Latest trends are that the kitchen organizations vary with almost every establishment.
In former times there were specialized large staffs called brigades. The various
sections were being clubbed together to suit the establishments. Many kitchens use
fresh food, ready to cook and sometimes ready to serve. This speeds the preparation
and cooking times. The kitchens have become smaller and cook more versatile. New
establishments employ less cooks.
1.1 Objectives
After reading this unit learner will be able to understand the following:
The uniform of kitchen personal is designed to protect the chef from burns, scalds and
heat because they are surrounded with myriad articles that can harm them. A chef
mostly uses knives, heavy pots and pans, gas stoves and the work area is hot, humid
and floor may become slippery at times due to spillage of water and cooking liquids
like gravies, oil etc. which eventually results in accidents. Keeping the operational
area of chef in mind the uniform of chef is designed to protect them from open fire and
heat of high pressure gas burners, spillage of hot liquids and endure hot and humid
climate of kitchen. The uniform is also designed in order to mitigate the hygiene and
sanitation risk. The chef uniform includes chef cap, scarf, chef coat, chef pant, apron
and shoes. Along with chef uniform chef do need to carry kitchen duster which helps
them to clean table top and protects them while handling hot pots.
Chef Cap: A person working in kitchen need to wear a cap to protect falling hair and
contaminating food prepared by them. The chef caps are either made-up of paper or
cloths. The paper chef cap is more hygienic as it is discarded after every use making it
expansive where as cloth caps may be re-used after washing. Cloth chef caps should
be made with cotton fabric as it is more fire resistant than synthetic fibbers.
Scarf: Chef Scarf is protective clothing for chef having many uses. This protective
piece of cloth is worn around neck and soaks excessive swatting and prevents falling
in cooked food. This is triangular in shape and may be used as elbow support in case
of accidents and may be used as tunicate to prevent bleeding.
Chef Coat: The fabric of Chef Coat should be a good absorbent and insulating in
property. Cotton is the most suitable material for chef coats. This fabric is important
because it acts as insulation against the intense heat from stoves and ovens. The cloth
is thick enough to prevent the chef from being scalded by hot liquids or spattering hot
oil and thermal shocks as the chefs constantly shuttles between the cold storage areas
and the hot kitchen areas. Since there are two rows of buttons, the chef can re-button
the double-breasted jacket to change sides whenever a side gets soiled during the
course of work during a shift.
Apron: Apron has duel function to perform, one is the protection of chef coat from
stains and secondly the protective function i.e. protecting from the burns and scalds
from spillage of boiling liquids in kitchen.
Shoes: The shoes again are a protective gear. It protects feet from fall of boiling
liquids and sudden falling of sharp tools like knife etc. The shoes should be black and
well polished. To prevent slipping the sole should be made of rubber. Black socks a
standard in our kitchens.
1. The Menu: The kinds of dishes to be produced obviously determine the jobs
that must be done. The menu is, in fact, the basis of the entire operation.
5. As you can see, only a large establishment needs a staff like the classical
brigade just described. In fact, some large hotels have even larger staffs, with
other positions such as separate day and night sous chefs, assistant chef,
banquet chef, butcher, baker, and so on. Most modern operations, on the other
hand, are smaller than this. The size of the classical brigade may be reduced
simply by combining two or more positions where the workload allows it. For
example, the second cook may combine the duties of the sauce cook, fish cook,
soup cook, and vegetable cook. A typical medium-size operation may employ
a chef, a second cook, a broiler cook, a pantry cook, and a few cooks' helpers.
7. The team of cooks and their assistants under the partie system is commonly
called the KITCHEN BRIGADE. Specialists head the parties and with their
assistants help produce complex dishes with great speed and efficiency. All the
heads of the parties come under the control of the Chef de Cuisine (Head)
aided by one or more sous chefs. In small establishments, head of the larder or
sauce section acts as Sous Chef.
The Chef is the person in charge of the kitchen. In large establishments, this
person has the title of executive chef. The executive chef is a manager who is
responsible for all aspects of food production, including menu planning,
purchasing, costing, planning work schedules, hiring, and training.
The Sous Chef (soo shef) is directly in charge of production and works as the
assistant to the executive chef or chef de cuisine. (The word sous are French
for "under.") Because the executive chef's responsibilities may require a great
deal of time in the office, the sous chef takes command of the actual
production and the minute-by-minute supervision of the staff.
The Sauce Chef, or Saucier (so-see-ay), prepares sauces, stews, and hot hors
d'oeuvres, and sautés foods to order. This is usually the highest position of all
the stations.
Cooks and assistants in each station or department help with the duties
assigned to them. For example, the assistant vegetable cook may wash, peel,
and trim vegetables. With experience, assistants may be promoted to station
cooks and then to station chefs.
1. Food storage - Your refrigerator and pantry are the major items here. Cabinetry like
lazy susan or swing-out pantry units adds function and convenience. Options like wine
racks, spice racks, and roll-out trays help to organize your groceries.
3. The clean-up station - Everyone's least favourite activity is one of the kitchen's
most important - clean-up. This area is home to the sink, waste disposal, and
dishwasher. Cabinetry for this station is designed to organize with the trash bin cabinet
and roll-out tray baskets for storage convenience.
Triangle reloaded: The work triangle however is experiencing a remodel of its own.
The work triangle was designed for an age when there was only one cook, and only
three appliances (fridge, stove, sink). Here are a few top tips:
1. No leg of the triangle is supposed to be less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet.
2. There should be no human (well, or non human, of course) traffic flow cutting
through the triangle.
3. Place the microwave near the refrigerator for convenience
4. Walk space should be 42-inch wide to account for traffic flow and clearance of
large appliance doors or large relatives
5. Counter space on either side of the range or cook-top should be a minimum of
15 inches
6. An 18-inch counter should be adjacent to the fridge on the same side as the
handle
7. The food prep area (minimum counter space 36 inches) is ideally located
between the fridge and the sink; If the food prep area is between the sink and
the range or cook-top, it will involve more travel.
8. A lower surface is best for food prep (measure 7 to 8 inches below your elbow
height)
9. In two-cook kitchens, the fridge and range/cook-top are usually shared.
10. Two triangles can share a leg, but shouldn't overlap
11. An island with a second sink creates at least one more triangle, and adapts too
many uses: wet bar location, flower cutting and arranging, homework station
etc.
Before we examine in detail the two cornerstones of job evaluation, viz., job analysis
and job descriptions, we should mention a complementary means of describing jobs,
namely by job specifications. These usually involve a listing of the personal
qualifications regarded as necessary for satisfactory performance. Job specifications
are mainly used in selecting and recruiting staff and are accordingly not essential to
job evaluations. But certain personal attributes, such as experience, education and
aptitude, may occur in both, the job description as well as the job specification. Many
job evaluation plans accordingly use job specifications to complement job description.
A primary output or result of job analysis is a job description. Information obtained by
job analysis is shifted and recorded concisely, clearly and fully in the job description.
The job description must assemble all the important elements of a job, such as
essential tasks, responsibilities, qualifications required and the functional relation of
the job to other jobs
Manpower Planning, Training and Development: These three processes are closely
interrelated. The job description showing, in specific terms, the knowledge, skill and
ability requirements for effective performance of the duties, is a sound and rational
basis for each of these processes. Analysis of various types of jobs at progressively
more senior levels will indicate logical sources of supply for more senior posts, as part
of manpower planning, it will also indicate the gap to be bridged in terms of
knowledge, skill and ability, thus providing a sound basis for preparing job-related
training and development programmes.
Industrial Relations: Frequently issues arise in the industrial relations field which
have their origin in the work to be undertaken. In these instances the job description
may be used to form a factual basis for discussion and problem resolution.
Organisation and Procedure Analysis: The duties and responsibilities outlined in the
job description may be used to great advantage by management in analysing
organisation and procedures, because they reveal how the work is organised, how the
procedures operate and how authority and responsibility are apportioned.
The pastry chef has to organize, develop, and supervise the pastry shop including
stations such as bakery, pastry, and confectionery. The specific responsibilities of a
pastry chef are to:
Be responsible for the mise en place and food preparation for all bakery and
pastry stations.
Account for the usage, consumption, and control of all foods and equipments
in the stations supervised by him/her.
Train staff in his/her stations on improved word procedures, quality food
production. The economical usage of food materials, and the attractive
presentation of food items.
Supervise and train the chef de parties, commis, and apprentices, and to
review staff working in his/her department.
Initiate performance reviews of staff working in his/her department.
Attend the daily and weekly kitchen chef's meetings and the F&B meetings.
Approve requisitions from stores for materials required in his/her stations.
Recommend schedule changes and changes in personnel for adequate
manning of all stations
LARDER CONTROL
If this department is to be run efficiently and economically, it is essential that the Chef
Garde-Manger should exercise the strictest possible control over the foodstuffs
received and stored in the department. This involves:
• Checking the quantity and quality of all goods delivered to the larder.
• Ensuring that all foodstuffs are stored at the right temperature and that they can
be easily checked.
• Ensuring that the food is protected from contamination by vermin.
• Ensuring that portion control is rigidly carried out, e.g. a given weight of fish,
poultry, meat, should always produce the required number of portions.
• Ensuring that food is not overstocked and stocks of food are regularly turned
over.
• Making every effort to maintain the highest possible standard of hygiene and to
prevent any deterioration in the foodstuffs under his control.
• Taking every precaution to discourage pilfering.
• Ensuring (and this is imperative) that a simple daily stock sheet be kept by
each section within the Larder and handed to the Chef Garde-Manger at the
end of each day's business to enable him to write out his order for the
following day.
Hair: - Hair should be kept healthy, trimmed and avoid dandruff. Hair should
never fall over the eyes. Waitresses may adopt neat hair styles and particularly
ensure a hair length which does not fall on to or below the collar or lengthy
hair should be combed and tied neatly and properly.
Teeth:- Teeth and a clean mouth are vital, both for appearance and a
wholesome breath. Brush your teeth immediately before coming to duty. Do
not eat onion, garlic or smoke before your shift. If you smoke, use mouthwash.
Hands:- Always wash hands with soap before coming on shift keep your nails
short and clean. Hands must always be clean, free of any stains and skin
breaks. Always wash hands with soap, immediately after using toilets, eating,
smoking or handling refuse.
Feet:- Feet need care, both for comfort and cleanliness. Keep toe nails trim and
feet well washed. Corns and other painful blemishes may require treatment by
a chiropodist disease. For more severe foot weakness medical advice should be
sought. Socks or stockings should be changed and washed daily.
Shoes:- Wear comfortable closed toed shoes. Air your shoes. Waitresses
should avoid excessively high and pointed heels and shoes should be daily
polished.
Cuts and burns:- cuts and burns must be covered with correct dressing.
Knowledge of food & beverages and technical ability: The staff must have
sufficient knowledge of all the items on the menu and wine drinks lists in order
to advise and offer suggestions to customers. In addition, they must know how
to serve correctly each dish on the menu, what its accompaniments are, the
correct cover, and the make up of the dish and its garnish. For beverage service
the staff should known hot to serve various types of wine and drink, in the
correct glass and at the right temperature.
Local knowledge: In the interest of customers the staff should have a certain
knowledge of the local area in which they work so that they may be able to
advise the guests on the various forms of establishment offered, the best means
of transport to places of interest so on. The staff should know about the
historical Places of the city and how far are the Airport, Bus Terminal/Station,
Cinema halls, commercial complexes, Railway Station etc.
Team Work: All sections of a hotel work towards understanding the guest
requirements and delivering them to perfection. This can only be achieved
through co-ordination and co-operation. In its daily operations food &
beverage department needs support of kitchen, housekeeping, front office,
maintenance, laundry, purchase and receiving, personnel and various external
suppliers. It is necessary that the wait staff have the ability to get along with
everyone. They must help colleagues to perform better in their jobs and
complete work as a team to satisfy customers.
Honesty: This is very important for the waiter in his dealing with both the
customer in his dealing with both the customer and the management. It there is
trust and respect in the triangle of waiter/ customer/management relationships,
Memory: Good memory is an essential asset for service staff. They should be
able to remembers who has ordered what, who is sitting in which table number,
which room number a guest is staying in, the likes and dislikes of guests,
where they like to sit, what type of food they prefer, what types of drinks they
take, smoker or non-smoker, name of guests and so on.
Maximize revenue: Cutting down on costs and maximizing the revenue of the
establishment should be of prime importance of all members of the staff, even
those in junior positions.
Observation: A keen sense of observation and an eye for details will help a
member of the staff to be more efficient at his job. An ability to correctly judge
people is definitely an advantage. A sense of anticipation in the service
industry is an invaluable quality. The ability of anticipate what a guest or the
management needs, even before it is asked creates a very good impression.
Ability to assume responsibility: All service staff should be able to cope with
the demands of the job and possess the ability to assume responsibility. They
should be loyal to their employers, responsible to the guest and friendly
towards their fellow workers.
Complaints: Staff should have a pleasant manner and show courtesy and tact,
an even temper and good humor. They should never show their displeasure
even during a difficult situation. Staff should never argue with a customer and
if they are unable to resolve a situation, it should be referred immediately to a
senior member of the team who will be able to calm the guest and put right any
fault. Remember, loss of time in dealing with complaints only makes the
situation worse.
Some people have an inherent and natural ability to see things in a broad context,
others are more adept at seeing things in fine, highly specific, detail. Given that one‘s
perception is one‘s reality, this can lead to people developing attitudes which may
reflect a broad understanding of the wider context, while other may prefer to see
things in terms of specific details. In a similar fashion, some people have an inherent
and pervading desire to express themselves in a very structured, logical and pragmatic
fashion. In contrast, others may have a preference to express themselves in a fashion
which is reflective of a desire for harmony and comfort rather than logic and order.
The ongoing debate about the role and impact of genetics (Nature) and socialization
(Nature) on our attitudes, behaviour, and reasoned action will provide further insight
and understanding of why we work and deal with ourselves and others in the way that
we do. However, at this stage, we have sufficient understanding of these functions to
identify their consequences for our work, particularly in the hospitality industry. In
hospitality, this self awareness and discipline can be of considerable advantage
Hospitality work tends to involve long hours with bursts of intense activity driven by a
combination of production and customer interaction pressures. While same people are
considered ―naturals‖ in this environment, others, who still have commitments to
hospitality, may struggle to cope in this environment, and consequently find
themselves under achieving in the industry. However, if these people are able to
recognize that their actions and behaviour in these situations are a function of their
attitudes, which are in turn a function of their socialization and genetic make up they
can embark upon a program to modify their attitudes by way of ―re learning‖ and
adjusting their attitudes toward the situation. In turn, they can also develop specific
While it is clearly not possible to alter our genetic make up at this stage, it is possible
to alter our attitudes and thus behaviour and reasoned action. We can do this by firstly,
thinking about our actions and planning them and fundamentally by thinking about
why we behave the way we do and why we have the attitudes that we have. By
applying ourselves to developing new ways of interpreting information and
considering other perspectives, our new found attitude may lead us to engage in new
form of behavior and finally, a more considered and thoughtful approach to pursuing
our goals can lead to change in our planned actions. The attitude of a person
determines whether he is successful or is a failure. Positive attitude towards guests will
make the service staff successful in their career.
The kitchen department should coordinate with various departments for efficient and
flawless functioning. To ensure proper day to day function kitchen should coordinate
with:
Front Office for knowing the number of the resident guests.
Banquets for knowing about the functions and menu of the same.
Restaurants for knowing the guest orders.
Maintenance department for upkeep of equipments and machines used in
kitchen.
Housekeeping department for scheduled cleaning of the area.
Security department for dealing any security issue.
1.12 Summary
Traditional Kitchen Organization that was pioneered by Auguste Escoffier, the
instigator of the partie or corner system. He had many sections such as grill, roast,
vegetable, fish, sauce, soup, larder, patisseur etc. As everything was done manually it
was necessary but now the sections have become fewer, because of labour-saving
machines, convenience foods and combined catering equipment (microwave cum
convection ovens, etc.), and the changing of public taste, which seeks simpler menus
and meals. The various layout of kitchen is been discussed in the unit.
Jobs are subjected to analysis to find out precisely what the duties, responsibilities,
working environment and other requirements of a job are and to present these in a
clear, concise and systematic way. The information gathered through job analysis can
be used for a wide range of personnel and general management decisions. Job analysis
is also a prerequisite to preparing job descriptions. In fact, job descriptions summarise
the essential information gathered through job analysis. The various concepts and
methods discussed in this Unit are useful in hotel industry as they are in any other.
Hygiene: The practice of keeping surroundings clean in order to protect from diseases
is known as hygiene.
Personal Hygiene: The practice of keeping oneself clean in order to protect from
diseases is known as personal hygiene.
Kitchen Hygiene: The practice of keeping kitchen clean in order to protect from
diseases is known as kitchen hygiene.
Protective Clothing: The uniform worn during the work hours to protect oneself
from the hazards of occupation is known as protective clothing.
Chef Cap: A cap worn by chef during working hours to protect hair fall in food.
Scarf: This protective piece of cloth is worn around neck and soaks excessive
swatting and prevents falling in cooked food.
Chef Coat: A coat worn by chefs to prevent the chef from being scalded by hot
liquids or spattering hot oil and thermal shocks.
Chef Pant: Generally the chef either uses a black trousers or black and white check
pants.
Apron: Apron has duel function to perform, one is the protection of chef coat from
stains and secondly the protective function i.e. protecting from the burns and scalds
from spillage of boiling liquids in kitchen.
Shoes: The shoes again are a protective gear. It protects feet from fall of boiling
liquids and sudden falling of sharp tools like knife etc. The shoes should be black and
well polished. To prevent slipping the sole should be made of rubber. Black socks a
standard in our kitchens.
The Chef: Chef is the person in charge of the kitchen. In large establishments, this
person has the title of executive chef. The executive chef is a manager who is
responsible for all aspects of food production, including menu planning, purchasing,
costing, planning work schedules, hiring, and training.
The Sous Chef (soo shef) is directly in charge of production and works as the
assistant to the executive chef or chef de cuisine. (The word sous are French for
"under.") Because the executive chef's responsibilities may require a great deal of time
in the office, the sous chef takes command of the actual production and the minute-by-
minute supervision of the staff.
Uttarakhand Open University 32
Food Production Foundation –I BHM-101T
The Station Chefs, or Chefs de Partie, are in charge of particular areas of production.
The following are the most important station chefs.
The Sauce Chef, or Saucier (so-see-ay), prepares sauces, stews, and hot hors
d'oeuvres, and sautés foods to order. This is usually the highest position of all the
stations.
The Fish Cook, or Poissonier (pwah-so-nyay), prepares fish dishes. In some kitchens,
this station is handled by the saucier.
The Roast Cook, or Rôtisseur (ro-tee-sur), prepares roasted and braised meats and
their gravies and broils meats and other items to order. A large kitchen may have a
separate broiler cook, or grillardin (gree-ar-dan), to handle the broiled items. The
broiler cook may also prepare deep-fried meats and fish.
The Pantry Chef, or Garde Manger (gard mawn-zhay), is responsible for cold foods,
including salads and dressings, pâtés, cold hors d'oeuvres, and buffet items.
The Relief Cook, swing cook, or Chef de Tournant (toor-nawn), replaces other station
heads.
The Expediter, or Aboyeur (ah-bwa-yer), accepts orders from waiters and passes
them on to the cooks on the line. The expediter also calls for orders to be finished and
plated at the proper time and inspects each plate before passing it to the dining room
staff. In many restaurants, this position is taken by the head chef or the sous chef.
Cooks and assistants in each station or department help with the duties assigned to
them. For example, the assistant vegetable cook may wash, peel, and trim vegetables.
With experience, assistants may be promoted to station cooks and then to station
chefs.
Larder Section: The larder is a room set aside for the storage of perishable foods,
both raw and cooked, where food as meat, fish, poultry and game are prepared and
made ready for cooking. In this department too, all cold items found on the menu, such
as hors d'oeuvres, cold dish or meat dishes, cold salads, etc. are prepared and dressed.
Sauce Section: The sauce section is responsible for providing all meat, poultry, game
and offal dishes with the exception of those that are plain roasted or grilled. All the
meat dishes are cooked and garnished.
Fish Section: This section is responsible for the provision of all fish dishes with the
exception of those that are plain grilled or deep fried. The cleaning, de-scaIing,
filleting, crumbling is done by the fishmonger in larder.
Indian Section: This section is responsible for the preparation, of all Indian dishes.
The work is subdivided into subsections such as: Indian (bread and rice, pulaos,
biryanis, chappaties, puries, bhaturas, etc.), vegetables, (bhajees, curries), meat,
(including eggs and fish), tandoor (seekh kababs, tandoor chicken, boti kababs), Indian
sweets jalebis, rasgullas, rabri, etc.) Each day a variety of dishes are prepared
according to menu requirements.
Pastry Section: The function of this section is to prepare hot and cold sweets, for
lunches, dinners and pastries for tea-time and other occasions. It also prepares pastes
like short and puff pastry, frying batters for making noodles for supply to other corners
of the kitchen.
The Single Line (or Pullmann) Kitchen: This is a smart and simple solution for
narrow rooms, ideally with one wall over 10 feet long, without windows or doors.
The Galley Kitchen: This shape offers the most efficient use of space, making it the
choice of many professional chefs. The two rows allow room for lots of preparation
space, and moving between activity areas can be as easy as turning around. However,
this shape is not ideal if the corridor is open at both ends, since it can cause traffic
congestion.
The L-Shape Kitchen: This is a very popular kitchen layout - ideal for a family
kitchen, or for entertaining guests, since it can easily accommodate table and chairs in
the same room.
The U-Shape Kitchen: The use of three full walls in a room offers the perfect
working kitchen. The fridge, range and sink can be spaced out for maximum
efficiency and convenience.
1.14 References/Bibliography
UNIT: 2
KITCHEN EQUIPMENTS
FUELS AND SAFETY
Structure
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Objectives
2.3 Classification of Kitchen Equipments
2.3.1 Large equipments
2.3.1.1 Ranges
2.3.1.2 Induction cook-top
2.3.1.3 Ovens
2.3.1.4 Deep Fat Fryer
2.3.1.5 Steamers
2.3.1.6 Hot Cupboards and Bain-Marie
2.3.1.7 Grills and Salamander
2.3.1.8 Tilting Skillet
2.3.2 Mechanical Equipment
2.3.2.1 Mixer
2.3.2.2 Peeler
2.3.2.3 Miners
2.3.2.4 Refrigerator
2.3.2.5 Dishwasher
2.3.3 Utensils and small equipments
2.3.3.1 Pots
2.3.3.2 Pans
2.3.3.3 Measuring Equipments
2.3.3.4 Hand Tools
2.3.3.5 Sinks
2.3.3.6 Tables
2.3.3.7 Knives
2.4 Fuel
2.4.1 Characteristics of a Good Fuel
2.4.2 Classification of Fuel
2.4.2.1 Solid Fuel
2.4.2.2 Liquid Fuel
2.4.2.3 Gaseous Fuel
2.4.3 Comparison of Various Fuels
2.5 Fire
2.6 First Aid
2.7 Summary
2.8 Key Terms
2.9 References/Bibliography
2.10 Review Questions
2.1 Introduction
Kitchen equipment is expansive and to justify the expanse it is essential that maximum
use is made of it. This can only be done if the equipment works efficiently and this
depends upon the care and maintenance. The type of fuel used is an important factor.
Though solid fuel and oil both have their place under certain circumstance, but for
professional cookery the choice lies between electricity and gas. In India soft coke is
being in small establishments sometimes. Firewood is used in Tandoor. The routine
use, care and cleaning of all items of equipment are important and this should be
appreciated and understood. When selecting equipment, capacity, trade name, good
quality simple design and easy to clean should be the criteria. The purpose and price is
also considered.
2.2 Objectives
After reading this unit the learner will be able to understand:
Classification of Kitchen Equipments
Large equipments
Mechanical Equipment
Utensils and small equipments
Characteristics of a Good Fuel
Classification of Fuel
Comparison of Various Fuels
Classification of fire
Types and Usage of Extinguishers
First Aid
2.3.1.1 Ranges
A large variety of stove is available fired by gas, electricity, solid fuel or oil. Solid
tops should be washed clean, or wiped clean with a cleaning pad. When cool, the stove
is more thoroughly cleaned by washing and using an abrasive such as emery paper.
After any kind of cleaning, a solid top should always be lightly greased. On the open
type of stove all the bars and racks should be removed, immersed in hot water with
detergent, scrubbed clean, dried and put back in the place on the stove. All gas jets
should then be lit to check that none are blocked. All enamel parts of the stove should
be cleaned while warm with hot detergent solution, rinsed and dried. The inside of
ovens and oven racks should be cleaned while slightly warm, using detergent solution
and mild abrasive. In cases of extreme dirt or grease being stuck on to the stove or
oven, a caustic jelly may be used, but thorough rinsing must take place afterwards.
Oven doors should not be slammed as this is liable to cause damage. The unnecessary
lighting or the lighting of ovens too early can cause wastage of fuel, which is a waste
of money.
2.3.1.3 Ovens
The oven and the range top are the two workhorses of the traditional kitchen, which is
why they are so often found in the same unit. Ovens are enclosed spaces in which food
is heated, usually by hot air or, in some newer kinds of ovens, by microwaves or
infrared radiation. In addition to roasting and baking, ovens can do many of the jobs
normally done on the range top. Many foods can be simmered, stewed, braised, or
poached in the oven, freeing the range top and the chef's attention for other tasks.
There are many kinds of ovens beyond those discussed here, but they are often for
specialty or high volume uses. These include conveyor ovens, which carry foods
through the oven on a steel conveyor belt; holding ovens or warmers, which are
designed to hold many types of foods at serving temperatures for extended periods
without drying out or overcooking (this category includes ovens that also cook the
food, then automatically switch to holding temperature); and high-volume roll-in
ovens, with large doors into which one can roll carts loaded with trays of food.
Convection Ovens: Convection ovens contain fans that circulate the air and distribute
the heat rapidly throughout the interior. Because of the forced air, foods cook more
quickly at lower temperatures. Also, shelves can be placed closer together than in
conventional ovens without blocking the heat flow.
Do's and Don'ts : The following points relate to the operation of the equipment.
When filling kettles with solid fats, set the thermostat at 250°F (120°C) until
the fat has melted enough to cover the heating elements.
Keep the kettles filled to the fill line.
Make sure the drain valve is shut before adding fat to the empty kettle.
Check the accuracy of the thermostat regularly by reading the fat temperature
with a thermometer.
2.3.1.5 Steamers
Steaming ovens that work from a main steam supply need little maintenance. The door
controls should be greased occasionally. The steamer trays and runners should be
washed in hot detergent water. This type of equipment is usually fitted with a gauge
which registers steam pressure (1/2 lb. per square inch), also an overflow valve which
gives a warning whistle, if the pressure reaches danger point. These should be
periodically checked by a qualified engineer to ensure that they are working correctly.
A constant supply of water should be maintained in the generating tank. Steamer trays
and the inside of the steamer should be cleaned with detergent water and rinsed. Many
types are available in different metals and various sizes (10, 15, 20 and 40 liters or
more capacity). They may be heated by gas, electricity or steam from the main supply.
As they are used for cooking large quantities of food, it is Important that they do not
allow the food to burn. It is for this reason that the steam-jacket type (double walled)
2.3.2.1 Mixer
Vertical mixers are important and versatile tools for
many kinds of food mixing and processing jobs, both in
the bakeshop and in the kitchen. Bench-model mixers
range in capacity from 5 to 20 quarts (5 to 20 L). Floor
models are available as large as 140 quarts (133 L).
Adaptor rings enable several bowl sizes to be used on
one machine. Most mixers have three operating speeds.
2.3.2.2 Peeler
Use for peeling the raw potato, with the help of special emery lining inside the feeder,
Peeler is designed aesthetically and is used to peel the skin of potatoes in faster way.
Potato peeler leads to minimum peel loss and for better peeling and continuous flow of
water in the drum helps to carry away the waste from drainage pipe. The drum storage
capacity ranges from 6 to 8 kg potatoes. Care while using peeling machines:
Potatoes should be free of earth and stones before loading into the machine,
otherwise damage to the machine will result.
Before any potatoes are loaded, the water spray should be turned on and the
abrasive plates set in motion.
The interior should be cleaned daily and the abrasive plate removed to ensure
that small particles are not lodged below.
The- peel trap should be emptied as frequently as required.
The waste outlet should be kept free from obstructions.
2.3.2.3 Miners
A meat grinder or meat mincer is a kitchen appliance for grinding, fine mincing or
mixing raw or cooked meat, fish, vegetables or similar food. It replaces tools like the
mincing knife, for example, which has been used to produce minced meat, filling etc.
The producer puts the minced food into a funnel, which is placed on the top of the
grinder. From there the material goes on a horizontal screw conveyor. This screw
conveyor that can be powered by a hand wheel or an electric motor squashes and
partially mixes the food. At the end of the screw conveyor there is a knife installed
directly in front of the fixed hole plate. At this opening the minced meat comes out of
the machine. The fineness of the meat depends on the size of the holes of the plate.
The meat grinder was invented by Karl Drais in the 19th century. By changing the
hole plate it is also possible to produce breadcrumbs or fill sausage casing. After the
drop from the retainer, it is possible to change the hole plate. By removing the fixing
screw the grinder can be disassembled completely for cleaning. Besides the domestic
manually or motor operated grinders, there are also grinders for butchery (table- or
shop-grinders for example) and for the food industry. Some large machines are able to
produce several tons per hour.
2.3.2.4 Refrigerator
In order to maintain a refrigerator at peak efficiency, the following points should be
observed:
Defrost weekly. The control should be turned to defrost, the racks should be
emptied and racks and interior surfaces washed, rinsed and dried. If the
refrigerator is not defrosted regularly, excess frost accumulates on the
Cooling system, acts as an insulator and causes the refrigerator motor to work
longer than is necessary, thus shortening the life of the components.
The door or doors should be kept closed as much as possible. If too much
warm air is allowed to enter the refrigerator plant, it overworks and excess
frost can accumulate on the cooling system.
Food should be stored sensibly and in such a way that the cold air can circulate
all around. Excessive packing of food into a refrigerator should be avoided.
A qualified engineer should be called in at the first sign of any defect in the
machinery operating a refrigerator.
2.3.2.5 Dishwasher
A dishwasher is a mechanical device for cleaning dishes and eating utensils.
Dishwashers can be found in restaurants and private homes. Unlike manual
dishwashing, which relies largely on physical scrubbing to remove soiling, the
mechanical dishwasher cleans by spraying hot water, typically between 55 to 75 °C
(130 to 170 °F) at the dishes, with lower temperatures used for delicate items. A mix
of water and detergent is used for cleaning purposes, followed by clean water to
remove the detergent residue. Some dishwashers have multiple wash and rinse periods
within the complete cycle. In some dishwashers, a rinsing aid (also called rinse aid)
can be added to the rinse cycle to improve drying and avoid water spots remaining on
dry items. Large heavy-duty dishwashers are available for use in commercial
establishments (e.g. hotels, restaurants) where a large number of dishes must be
cleaned. Unlike a home dishwasher, commercial units typically are not multi-level,
and only wash a single tray of dishes per cycle. This is not an inconvenience since
trays are batch-processed consecutively one after the other. They can wash a rack of
dishes or a rack of 25 glasses in just approximately one minute.
2.3.3.1 Pots
Stockpot: A large, deep, straight-sided pot for preparing stocks and simmering large
quantities of liquids. Stockpots with spigots allow liquid to be drained off without
disturbing the solid contents or lifting the pot. Sizes: 8-200 quarts (liters).
Saucepot: A round pot of medium depth. Similar to a stockpot but shallower, making
stirring or mixing easier. Used for soups, sauces, and other liquids. Sizes: 6-60 quarts
(liters).
Brazier: A round, broad, shallow, heavy-duty pot with straight sides. Also called a
rondeau. Used for browning, braising, and stewing meats. Sizes: 11-30 quarts (liters).
2.3.3.2 Pans
Saucepan: Similar to a small, shallow, light saucepot, but with one long handle
instead of two loop handles. May have straight or slanted sides. Used for general
range-top cooking. Sizes: 11 to15 quarts (liters).
Cast-iron skillet: Very heavy, thick-bottomed fry pan. Used for pan-frying when
steady, even heat is desired.
Double boiler: A pot with two sections. The lower section, similar to a stockpot,
holds boiling water. The upper section holds foods that must be cooked at low
temperatures and cannot be cooked over direct heat. Size of top section: 4-36 quarts
(liters).
Volume measures used for liquids have lips for easy pouring. Sizes are pints, quarts,
half-gallons, and gallons. Each size is marked off into fourths by ridges on the sides.
Measuring cups are available in 1-, 1/2-, 1/3-, and 1/4-cup sizes. They can be used for
both liquid and dry measures. Measuring spoons are used for measuring very small
volumes: 1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, and 1/4 teaspoon. They are used
most often for spices and seasonings. Ladles are used for measuring and portioning
liquids. The size, in ounces, is stamped on the handle. Scoops come in standard sizes
and have a lever for mechanical release. They are used for portioning soft solid foods.
The number of the scoop indicates the number of level scoopfuls per quart. In actual
use, a rounded scoopful is often more practical than a level scoopful, so exact weights
will vary. Thermometers measure temperature. There are many kinds for many
purposes.
A meat thermometer indicates internal temperature of meats. It is inserted
before cooking and left in the product during cooking.
An instant-read thermometer gives readings within a few seconds of being
inserted in a food product. It reads from 0°F to 220°F. Many chefs carry these
in their jacket pocket like a pen, ready whenever needed. Instant-read
thermometers must not be left in meats during roasting, or they will be
damaged.
Fat thermometers and candy thermometers test temperatures of frying fats and
sugar syrups. They read up to 400°F.
Special thermometers are used to test the accuracy of oven, refrigerator, and
freezer thermostats.
Bench scraper or dough knife: A broad, stiff piece of metal with a wooden handle on
one edge. Used to cut pieces of dough and to scrape workbenches.
Spoons: slotted, perforated, and solid: Large stainless-steel spoons that hold about 3
ounces (90 mL). Used for stirring, mixing, and serving. Slotted and perforated spoons
are used when liquid must be drained from solids.
China cap: A cone-shaped strainer. Used for straining stocks, soups, sauces, and other
liquids. Pointed shape allows the cook to drain liquids through a relatively small
opening.
Fine china cap or chinois (shee-nwah): A china cap with very fine mesh. Used when
great clarity or smoothness is required in a liquid.
Drum sieve or Tamis: A screen-type mesh supported in a round metal frame. Used
for sifting flour and other dry ingredients and for puréeing soft foods.
Pastry bag and tubes: Cone-shaped cloths or plastic bags with an open end that can
be fitted with metal tubes or tips of various shapes and sizes. Used for shaping and
decorating with items such as cake icing, whipped cream, duchesse potatoes, and soft
dough. Pastry brush: Used to brush items with egg wash, glaze, etc.
Can opener: Heavy-duty can openers are mounted on the edge of the workbench.
They must be carefully cleaned and sanitized every day to prevent contamination of
foods. Replace worn blades, which can leave metal shavings in the food.
2.3.3.5 Sinks
Different materials are used for sinks according to the purpose for which they are
intended:
Heavy galvanized iron for heavy pot wash.
Teak or other hard wood for glass or china wash. (If hard wood sinks are left
unused for long periods of time, they should be filled with cold water to
prevent shrinkage of the timber.)
Stainless steel for general purposes.
Glazed earthenware for general light purposes. Sinks, drainers, waste and
overflow outlets should be cleaned with a suitable abrasive power cleaner,
thoroughly rinsed with plenty of clean water and left to dry.
2.3.3.6 Tables
Wooden tables should be scrubbed clean with hot soda water, rinsed and wiped dry as
soon as possible to prevent warping. Formica or Stainless steel topped tables should be
washed with hot detergent water, rinsed with hot water and dried. Marble Slabs should
be scrubbed with hot water and rinsed. All excess moisture should be removed with a
dry cloth. No cutting or chopping should be allowed on table-tops; chopping boards
2.3.3.7 Knives
Chef's knives and other knives have a number of parts, and you should be familiar
with their names. These parts are illustrated in the diagram. The spine is the back of
the blade. It is the edge opposite the cutting edge. The tip is the pointed end of the
blade, while the heel is the back end of the blade closest to the handle. On some
knives, the blade has a raised part called a bolster at the heel end. The bolster is a sort
of guard that helps protect the hand from slips and also helps balance the weight of the
knife. The tang is the portion of the metal blade inside the handle. The highest-quality,
most durable knives have a full tang, which means the tang runs the full length of the
handle. On knives with traditional wood handles, rivets hold the handle to the tang.
The rivets should be perfectly smooth and flush with the handle. Composite molded
handles are bonded to the tang without rivets.
Utility knife or salad knife: A narrow, pointed knife 6-8 inches (160-200 mm) long.
Used mostly for pantry work, cutting and preparing lettuce, fruits, and so on. Also
useful for carving roast chicken and duck.
Paring knife: A small pointed blade 2-4 inches (50-100 mm) long. Used for trimming
and paring vegetables and fruits.
Boning knife: A thin, pointed blade about 6 inches (160 mm) long. Used for boning
raw meats and poultry. Stiff blades are used for heavier work. Flexible blades are used
for lighter work and for filleting fish.
Pastry wheel or wheel knife: A round, rotating blade on a handle. Used for cutting
rolled-out doughs and pastry and baked pizza.
2.4 Fuel
Any substance which produces heat is known as fuel. Fuel when burnt, i.e. on coming
in contact and reacting with oxygen or air, produces heat. Thus, the substances
classified as fuel must necessarily contain one or several of the combustible elements:
carbon, hydrogen, sulphur, etc. In the process of combustion, the chemical energy of
fuel is converted into heat energy. The term fuel includes all combustible substances
obtainable in bulk. It is a substance, which produces a large amount of heat when
burnt with the atmospheric oxygen. To utilize the energy of fuel in most usable form,
it is required to transform the fuel from its one state to another, i.e. from solid to liquid
or gaseous state, liquid to gaseous state, or from its chemical energy to some other
form of energy via single or many stages. In this way, the energy of fuels can be
utilized more effectively and efficiently for various purposes.
Definition: ‗We can define fuel as any combustible substance containing carbon as
main constituent which on burning liberates large amount of heat that can be used for
Efficient Burning: It should burn in air with efficiency. Too much smoke
and obnoxious odours are not desirable.
Size: In case of solid fuel, the size should be uniform so that combustion is
regular.
Fuel
Natural Atrificial
Examples of solid fuel: There are several solid fuels which are readily used. They are:
Wood
Coal: Coal is a fossil fuel. The large deposits of coal in India are in Bengal,
Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. Most of the Indian coal is of low grade variety and
coal washing to obtain low ash metallurgical coal is unavoidable. Over 30% of
coal output is consumed by railways, another similar proportion is used by
industry including iron and steel works. This leaves barely 40% of coal mined
for use of the power supply undertakings. Coal is classified into three major
types namely anthracite, bituminous, and lignite. However there is no clear
demarcation between them and coal is also further classified as semi-
anthracite, semi-bituminous, and sub-bituminous. Anthracite is the oldest coal
from geological perspective. It is a hard coal composed mainly of carbon with
little volatile content and practically no moisture. Lignite is the youngest coal
from geological perspective. Calorific value of coal is defined as the quantity
of heat given out by burning one unit weight of coal in a calorimeter. The
calorific value of coal is higher than wood. It is more compact source of heat
energy, easy in transportation and higher calorific value makes coal a preferred
industrial fuel.
Advantages of solid fuel: The various advantages of solid fuels are as under:
They are easy to transport.
They are convenient to store without any risk of spontaneous explosion.
Their cost of production is low.
They posses moderate ignition temperature.
Disadvantages of solid fuel: The various advantages and disadvantages of solid fuels
are as under:
Their ash content is high.
Their large proportion of heat is wasted.
They burn with clinker formation.
Their combustion operation cannot be controlled easily.
Their cost of handling is high.
Natural or Crude Oil: Petroleum is a basic natural fuel. It is a dark greenish brown,
viscous mineral oil, found deep in earth‘s crust. It is mainly composed of various
hydrocarbons (like straight chain paraffins, cyclo-paraffins or napthenes, olefins, and
aromatics) together with small amount of organic compounds containing oxygen
nitrogen and sulphur. The average composition of crude petroleum is :
C = 79.5 to 87.1%;
H = 11.5 to 14.8%;
S = 0.1 to 3.5%,
N and O = 0.1 to 0.5%.
Petroleum are graded according to the following phsio-chemical properties :
Specific gravity,
Calorific value,
Fish point or ignition point,
Viscosity,
Sulphur contents,
Moisture and sediment content, and
Specific heat and coefficient of expansion.
Artificial Gas: LPG is a predominant mixture of propane and Butane with a small
percentage of unsaturates (Propylene and Butylene) and some lighter C2 as well as
heavier C5 fractions. Included in the LPG range are propane (C3H8), Propylene
(C3H6), normal and iso-butane (C4H10) and Butylene(C4H8). LPG may be defined as
those hydrocarbons, which are gaseous at normal atmospheric pressure, but may be
condensed to the liquid state at normal temperature, by the application of moderate
pressures. Although they are normally used as gases, they are stored and transported as
liquids under pressure for convenience and ease of handling. Liquid LPG evaporates
to produce about 250 times volume of gas. LPG vapour is denser than air: butane is
about twice as heavy as air and propane about one and a half times as heavy as air.
Consequently, the vapour may flow along the ground and into drains sinking to the
lowest level of the surroundings and be ignited at a considerable distance from the
source of leakage. In still air vapour will disperse slowly. Escape of even small
quantities of the liquefied gas can give rise to large volumes of vapour / air mixture
and thus cause considerable hazard. To aid in the detection of atmospheric leaks, all
LPG‘s are required to be odorized. There should be adequate ground level ventilation
where LPG is stored. For this very reason LPG cylinders should not be stored in
cellars or basements, which have no ventilation at ground level.
Advantages of gaseous fuels: Gaseous fuels due to ease and flexibility of their
applications possess the following advantages over solid or liquid fuels:
They can be conveyed easily through pipelines to the actual place of need,
thereby eliminating manual labour in transportation.
They can be lighted at ease.
They have high heat contents and hence help us in having higher temperatures.
They can be pre-heated by the heat of hot waste gases, thereby affecting
economy in heat.
Their combustion can readily by controlled for change in demand like
oxidizing or reducing atmosphere, length flame, temperature, etc.
They are clean in use.
They do not require any special burner.
They burn without any shoot, or smoke and ashes.
They are free from impurities found in solid and liquid fuels.
2.5 Fire
Fire is among the potential hazards associated with the hotel. Hotel must be equipped
to safeguard guest and its property from the fire. All the employees must be aware of
any specific procedure laid down for the establishment and be ready to comply with
them at all the time.
The three basic elements if present at a place will result in outbreak of fire. They are:
Fuel (a combustible substance)
Oxygen (necessary as fire is an oxidation reaction)
If any one of them is absent the fire cannot outbreak. Therefore fire can be
extinguished by following three principles:
Starving
Smothering
Cooling
Starving: Starving is the removal of the fuel from the vicinity of fire so that there is
nothing to burn. Suppose fire outbreaks in the area where wood is stored, it can be
extinguished by removing all the wood from that area. This will lead to elimination of
one major element necessary for fire.
Smothering: Fire can be extinguished by cutting off supply of air (oxygen) which is
necessary for existence of fire. Removal of air is known as smothering.
Cooling: Heat (ignition temperature) is another essential for the existence of fire.
Cooling can be achieved by putting water.
CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE
Depending upon combustible material that caught fire, it is classified in to following
five groups:
Class A fire
Class B fire
Class C fire
Class D fire
Class E fire
Water These extinguishers contain water and compressed gas and should only be used
on Class A (ordinary combustibles) fires.
First Aid Equipments: There should be a first aid box in the work area. First-aid box
should be easily identifiable and accessible in the work area. It should be in the charge
of a responsible person. A regular replenishment of the first-aid box is necessary so
that first-aid may be given in case of requirement. A first aid box must contain at a
least following things:
A card giving general first-aid guidance
20 individually wrapped, sterile, adhesive, waterproof dressings of various
sizes
An antiseptic lotion and antiseptic cream
4 X 25 g. cotton wool packets
1 dozen safety pins
2 triangular bandages
2 sterile eye pads, with attachment
4 medium-sized sterile un-medicated dressings
2 large size sterile un-medicated dressings
2 extra large size sterile un-medicated dressings
Scissors
A report book to record all injuries.
Cuts: All cuts should be washed with the antiseptic lotion and should be covered with
waterproof dressing. When there is considerable bleeding it should be stopped as soon
as possible. If bleeding persists it may be stopped by bandaging firmly or pressing the
artery with the thumbs and immediate medical assistance is necessary.
Nose Bleeding: In case of nose bleeding, sit the person down with the head forward,
and loosen clothing round the neck and chest. Warn the person not to blow the nose
for several hours. If bleeding persists seek the medical assistance.
Fainting: Fainting may occur after a long period of standing in a hot, badly ventilated
area. The signs of an impending faint are whiteness, giddiness and sweating. A faint
should be treated by raising the legs slightly above the level of the head and, when the
person recovers the consciousness, putting in the fresh air for a while and making sure
that the person has not incurred any injury in fainting
Fractures: The best treatment for fracture is to make the affected part immobile
before doing anything. Immediately seek the assistance of doctor.
Burns and Scalds: Burn is caused by dry heat source like flame or hot articles
whereas scalds are caused by wet heat source like steam or boiling liquids. The burnt
part should be placed under running cold water or immerse in cold water till pain
ceases. Seek the assistance of doctor if required.
2.7 Summary
Thorough knowledge of equipment is essential for success in the kitchen. Few food-
service operations depend on nothing more than a range and an oven, an assortment of
pots and pans, and knives and other hand tools. Modern technology continues to
develop more and more specialized and technically advanced tools to reduce kitchen
labor. Much of this equipment is so complex or so sophisticated that only firsthand
instruction and practice will teach you how to operate it effectively and safely. Other
items, especially hand tools, are simple and need no explanation but require much
practice to develop good manual skills. A vast array of specialized equipment is
available for today's kitchens. It would take a large book, not just a short chapter, to
describe all of the many items you will encounter in your careeritems such as pasta
machines, crêpe machines, burger formers, breading machines, cookie droppers,
beverage machines, Greek gyro broilers, doughnut glazers, conveyor fryers, and so on.
In this technological age, nearly every year brings new tools to simplify various tasks.
Utility knife or salad knife: A narrow, pointed knife 6-8 inches (160-200 mm) long.
Used mostly for pantry work, cutting and preparing lettuce, fruits, and so on. Also
useful for carving roast chicken and duck.
Paring knife: A small pointed blade 2-4 inches (50-100 mm) long. Used for trimming
and paring vegetables and fruits.
Boning knife: A thin, pointed blade about 6 inches (160 mm) long. Used for boning
raw meats and poultry. Stiff blades are used for heavier work. Flexible blades are used
for lighter work and for filleting fish.
Pastry wheel or wheel knife: A round, rotating blade on a handle. Used for cutting
rolled-out doughs and pastry and baked pizza.
Rubber spatula or scraper: A broad, flexible rubber or plastic tip on a long handle.
Used to scrape bowls and pans. Also used for folding in egg foams and whipped
cream.
Pie server: A wedge-shaped offset spatula. Used for lifting pie wedges from pan.
Bench scraper or dough knife: A broad, stiff piece of metal with a wooden handle on
one edge. Used to cut pieces of dough and to scrape workbenches.
Spoons: slotted, perforated, and solid: Large stainless-steel spoons that hold about 3
ounces (90 mL). Used for stirring, mixing, and serving. Slotted and perforated spoons
are used when liquid must be drained from solids.
Fine china cap or chinois (shee-nwah): A china cap with very fine mesh. Used when
great clarity or smoothness is required in a liquid.
Drum sieve or Tamis: A screen-type mesh supported in a round metal frame. Used
for sifting flour and other dry ingredients and for puréeing soft foods.
Pastry bag and tubes: Cone-shaped cloths or plastic bags with an open end that can
be fitted with metal tubes or tips of various shapes and sizes. Used for shaping and
decorating with items such as cake icing, whipped cream, duchesse potatoes, and soft
dough. Pastry brush: Used to brush items with egg wash, glaze, etc.
Can opener: Heavy-duty can openers are mounted on the edge of the workbench.
They must be carefully cleaned and sanitized every day to prevent contamination of
foods. Replace worn blades, which can leave metal shavings in the food.
Natural Fuel: Fuels which are obtained directly from the nature, and can be used as
such or after a little processing are known as primary fuels. The common examples of
natural fuel are Wood, Coal, Petroleum, Natural gas etc.
Artificial Fuels: Fuels which are obtained after the modification and treatment of
primary fuels are known as secondary fuels. The common examples of artificial fuels
are Coke, Gasoline, Diesel, Kerosene, Petrol etc.
Starving: Starving is the removal of the fuel from the vicinity of fire so that there is
nothing to burn. Suppose fire outbreaks in the area where wood is stored, it can be
extinguished by removing all the wood from that area. This will lead to elimination of
one major element necessary for fire.
Smothering: Fire can be extinguished by cutting off supply of air (oxygen) which is
necessary for existence of fire. Removal of air is known as smothering.
Cooling: Heat (ignition temperature) is another essential for the existence of fire.
Cooling can be achieved by putting water.
Class A Extinguishers will put out fires in ordinary combustibles, such as wood and
paper. The numerical rating for this class of fire extinguisher refers to the amount of
water the fire extinguisher holds and the amount of fire it will extinguish.
Shock: the signs of shock are faintness, sickness, clammy skin and pale face. Shock
should be treated by keeping the person comfortable, lying down and warm. Cover the
person with blanket or clothing, but do not apply hot water bottles.
Cuts: All cuts should be washed with the antiseptic lotion and should be covered with
waterproof dressing. When there is considerable bleeding it should be stopped as soon
as possible. If bleeding persists it may be stopped by bandaging firmly or pressing the
artery with the thumbs and immediate medical assistance is necessary.
Nose Bleeding: In case of nose bleeding, sit the person down with the head forward,
and loosen clothing round the neck and chest. Warn the person not to blow the nose
for several hours. If bleeding persists seek the medical assistance.
Fainting: Fainting may occur after a long period of standing in a hot, badly ventilated
area. The signs of an impending faint are whiteness, giddiness and sweating. A faint
should be treated by raising the legs slightly above the level of the head and, when the
person recovers the consciousness, putting in the fresh air for a while and making sure
that the person has not incurred any injury in fainting
Fractures: The best treatment for fracture is to make the affected part immobile
before doing anything. Immediately seek the assistance of doctor.
Burns and Scalds: Burn is caused by dry heat source like flame or hot articles
whereas scalds are caused by wet heat source like steam or boiling liquids. The burnt
part should be placed under running cold water or immerse in cold water till pain
ceases. Seek the assistance of doctor if required.
2.9 References/Bibliography
1. K Arora, Theory of Cookery, Franc Bro & Co. New Delhi
2. P S Bali, Food Production Operations, Oxford University Press, New Delhi
3. Wayne Gisslen, Professional cooking, John Wiley & Sons
UNIT 3:
INGREDIENTS USED IN COOKING
Structure
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Objectives
3.3 Herbs and Spices
3.3.1 Active Plant Constituents
3.3.2 Herbs and their Medicinal Value
3.3.3 Spices and their Medicinal Value
3.4 Cereals
3.4.1 Cereal Varieties
3.4.1.1 Wheat
3.4.1.2 Rice
3.4.1.3 Maize
3.4.1.4 Oats
3.4.1.5 Jowar
3.4.1.6 Bajara
3.4.1.7 Ragi
3.4.2 Selection of Cereals
3.4.3 Storage of Cereals
3.4.4 Role of Cereals in cookery
3.5 Pulses
3.5.1 Varieties of Pulses
3.5.2 Nutritional Value
3.6 Fruits
3.7 Vegetables
3.8 Salt
3.9 Sweeteners
3.10 Fats and Oils
3.11 Milk and Milk Products
3.11.1 Composition of Milk
3.11.2 Curdling of Milk
3.11.3 Milk Production
3.11.4 Milk Products
3.11.4.1 Cheese
3.11.4.2 Butter
3.11.4.3 Cream
3.11.4.4 Yoghurt
3.11.4.5 Khoya
3.11.4.6 Curd
3.11.4.7 Butter Milk
3.11.5 Milk Production in India
3.12 Summary
3.13 Glossary
3.14 Further Reference/Bibliography
3.15 Terminal Questions
3.1 Introduction
In the last chapter we have learnt about the different methods of cooking being applied
form the production of food in hotel kitchens and other food service operations. In this
chapter we are going to learn different food commodities involved in the preparation
of various dishes of the world. The characteristics of these commodities play vital role
in compiling tastier and mouth-watering dishes. In economics, a commodity is the
generic term for any marketable item produced to satisfy wants or needs. Food
commodity refers to all kinds of raw food materials available in the market which are
meant for saleable to the customers at price. In this chapter we are going to study
about cereals, pulses, vegetables, fruits, flour, salt, sugar and fat, their structure and
1their involvement in food preparation.
In the last unit we have learnt the different types of vegetables and their uses in
cookery. In this unit we are going to understand about basic commodity i.e milk. Milk
has been a source for food for humans since the beginning of recorded history. Animal
milk is known to have been used first as human food around 5000 BC. Milk
byproducts found inside Stone Age pottery from Turkey indicate processed milk was
consumed in 6500 BC. It is presumed that when animals such as cattle were first
domesticated, it was only for purposes of meat. Milk most often means the nutrient
fluid produced by the mammary glands of female mammals. The female ability to
produce milk is one of the defining characteristics of mammals and provides the
primary source of nutrition for newborns before they are able to digest more diverse
foods. Although the use of fresh milk has increased with economic development, the
majority of consumption occurs after milk has been heated, processed, or made into
butter. The milk industry became a commercial enterprise when methods for
preservation of fluid milk were introduced. The successful evolution of the dairy
industry from small to large units of production, ie, the farm to the dairy plant,
depended on sanitation of animals, products, and equipment; cooling facilities; health
standards for animals and workers; transportation systems; construction materials for
process machinery and product containers; pasteurization and sterilization methods;
containers for distribution; and refrigeration for products in stores and homes.
3.2 Objectives
The objective of studying this chapter is to make the students understand:
Different types of herbs and spices used in cookery
Medicinal benefits of the same
The characteristics and behavior of the basic food ingredients.
Their types
Their uses in cookery
Their purchasing criteria and
Their storing method
Characteristic of milk
Types of milk and milk products
Preparation and uses of milk and its products
Handling and storage of milk
Herbs and spices have been an essential factor in health care through the ages in all
cultures. They are prepared in number of ways to extract their active ingredients for
internal and external use. There are a number of different systems of herbal medicine,
the most important of which are Chinese and Indian (Ayurvedic) systems of medicine.
All spices are medicinal and are used extensively in indigenous systems of medicine.
Extracts from herbs and spices are used as infusions, decoctions, macerations,
tinctures, fluid extracts, teas, juices, syrups, poultices, compresses, oils, ointments and
powders. Many medicinal herbs used in Ayurveda have multiple bioactive principles.
It is not always easy to isolate compounds and demonstrate that the efficacy can be
attributed to any one of the active principles.
Basil: Basil is a member of the mint family. Most types have shiny, light-green leaves
and a pungent, slightly sweet aroma. There are many types of basil, each slightly
different in aroma and taste. One of the most widely used herbs for seasoning
tomatoes and tomato sauces, basil plays a key role in Mediterranean, Asian, and
Middle Eastern cuisine. Basil particularly complements the flavor of garlic and olives.
It is also pleasing when combined with lemon dressing.
Medicinal value: Basil is a good source of vitamin K and manganese. The essential
oil in basil has been found to contain antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral and
antimicrobial properties. anti-inflammatory; antioxidant, strengthens defenses against
asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Bay Leaf: The green, pointed leaves, usually sold dried, are grown on a small tree
belonging to the laurel family. They add a pungent, almost evergreen, flavor to foods,
and the whole leaf must be removed before the food is served. Bay leaves are used to
season a variety of foods. Their use is especially called for in simmered dishes, soups,
stews, sauces, and tomato dishes. Bay leaves can easily overwhelm a food, so use
them with caution. The longer they cook the more flavor they add.
Medicinal value: It is mainly used in medicine for its digestive and anti-gas
properties. Herbalists also recommend it for stomach cramps, mouth infection, teeth
disorder, insect bites vomiting, constipation, headaches, cough, heart and respiratory
disorder, and anxiety.
Chervil: A member of the parsley family, chervil has dark-green curling leaves. Its
delicate flavor is similar to that of parsley, with a hint of anise and lemon. Considered
essential in French cooking, it is excellent in salads, soups, and vinaigrettes and with
seafood. Chervil can be used to replace parsley. It should be used fresh, when its
flavor is best. A caution: chervil can lose flavor when it is overcooked.
Medicinal value: Chervil has been used in the past as a diuretic, expectorant,
digestive aid, and skin freshener. It was also thought to relieve symptoms of eczema,
gout, kidney stones, and pleurisy. It is most widely known as a remedy for high blood
pressure today.
Chives: A member of the onion family, chives have long, slender, hollow green stems
and are usually sold in bundles. The mellow, delicate onion flavor of chives is useful
for sauces, soups, baked potatoes, salads, omelets, pasta, seafood, and meat. They are
also commonly used as a garnish. In addition, their light-purple flowers are edible. Use
fresh chives when possible because dried chives have little flavor. Chives can lose
flavor when cooked too long.
Medicinal value: Chives are members of the onion family, and possess the same
beneficial properties their bigger brothers. All Alliums can be used for control of
Cholesterol and high blood pressure. They have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal
properties, and a paste or Ointment made out of onion is said to prevent infection in
Cilantro: Cilantro is also related to the parsley family. Its lacy green leaves have a
pungent, juniper like spicy flavor. A popular seasoning used worldwide, cilantro
particularly complements spicy foods. It is commonly used in Mediterranean, Latin
American, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Cilantro is often found in salsa. It can
overpower a dish. Use it judiciously, adding a little at first. Cilantro may be referred to
as ―fresh coriander‖ because its seeds are ground into the spice coriander.
Medicinal value: The herb is a good source of minerals like potassium, calcium,
manganese, iron, and magnesium. Rich in many vital vitamins including folic-acid,
riboflavin, niacin, vitamin-A, beta carotene, vitamin-C that are essential for optimum
health. Regulates cholesterol and high blood pressure,
Dill: Another member of the parsley family, dill has feathery leaves and flat, oval-
shaped brown seeds. Both are used for seasoning. The leaves have a pungent, tangy
taste, and the seeds have a bitter flavor with caraway overtones. Dried leaves are sold
as dill weed. Dill complements the flavor of fish, chicken, eggs, salads, and a variety
of vegetables. It is also used as a pickle flavoring. Use fresh dill leaves whenever
possible; drying causes them to lose their flavor. The leaves also make a lacy garnish.
Dill weed should be used at the end of cooking so it will keep its flavor. Alternatively,
heat intensifies the flavor of dill seed.
Medicinal value: used mostly as a stomach soother and anti-gas remedy. It is also
said to increase mother's milk and help treat breast congestion from nursing. It is
mild, and makes a good remedy for colic in babies.
Fennel: Fennel has long, green, feathery leaves on celery like stems. Both stem and
leaves have a delicate, anise-like flavor and may be eaten as a vegetable. Flowers
produce seeds that may also be used as a flavoring. Raw fennel stems and leaves may
be added to salads. Fennel also can be used to flavor cheese, sauces, mayonnaise, and
bread. Fennel is a traditional seasoning for fish. Use fresh fennel whenever possible to
maximize flavor. Overcooking can cause fennel to lose its flavor.
Medicinal value: Rich in volatile oils, fennel is a cleansing and medicating herb, and
can be used for a steam facial for opening pores and rejuvenating facial skin. It also
acts as mouth freshener and intestine soother. Fennel may be an effective diuretic and
a potential drug for treatment of hypertension. Fennel is what's known as a carminative
herb, meaning that it can ease bloating, gas pains, and digestive spasms in the small
and large intestines. Fennel can also reduce bad breath and body odor that originates in
the intestines. Women who are breastfeeding may find that fennel, which works in a
way similar to the body's hormones, increases milk flow.
Lavender: Spikes of pungently aromatic purple flowers and gray-green leaves make
identification of this herb easy. It is a traditional flavoring for teas, candies, and
desserts. Lavender also can add a subtle and different flavor to custard and ice cream.
Medicinal value: it has anti viral properties and is extensively used to cure cold, fever,
mumps and cold sores. It calms a nervous stomach, colic, or heart spasms.
Lemon Grass: Also known as citronella grass, lemon grass has long, green stalks and
serrated leaves. The stalks have a lemony aroma and flavor tinged with ginger. Only
the lower 4 to 6 inches of the stalk is used. Lemon grass is common in Thai and south-
east Asian cooking. It enhances the flavor of curries, stews, soups, chicken, and
seafood. Make sure to remove the lemon grass before serving. Fresh lemon peel and
grated ginger can be used in place of lemon grass.
Medicinal value: it is a stomach soother and cholesterol reducer, and an effective
insect repellant and fungicide.
Marjoram: Marjoram is made from the short, pale-green leaves of a shrub cultivated
throughout Europe for centuries. Closely related to oregano, marjoram has a flavor
resembling that of mint and basil. Marjoram is used in many tomato-based dishes, but
it has a flavor that complements just about any food. It is used widely in
Mediterranean cooking and makes an excellent flavoring for oil and vinegar. This herb
can be used interchangeably with oregano. Buy it fresh when possible.
Medicinal value: It has been used historically for relief from symptoms of hay fever,
sinus congestion, indigestion, asthma, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, colds,
coughs, and nervous disorders. It is a gently fragrant, calming herb that does have
mild antioxidant and anti-fungal properties.
Mint: Mint‘s cool, aromatic menthol taste and smell are instantly recognizable. There
are hundreds of varieties of mints: peppermint and spearmint are the most popular.
Often used as a dessert or candy flavoring, mint also adds an interesting flavor to
sauces, meat dishes, salads, and iced tea. Lamb is traditionally served with mint jelly.
Herbs that mix well with mint include cilantro, basil, and marjoram.
Medicinal value: Herbalists the world over use mint, as a premier stomach tonic, to
counteract nausea and vomiting, promote digestion, calm stomach muscle spasms,
relieve flatulence, and ease hiccups. Menthol, the aromatic oil in peppermint, also
relaxes the airways and fights bacteria and viruses. Menthol interferes with the
sensation from pain receptors, thus it may be useful in reducing headache pain.
Scientific evidence suggests that peppermint can kill many kinds of micro-organisms,
and may boost mental alertness. In one study, people who inhaled menthol said they
felt as if it relieved their nasal congestion, although it didn't increase their measurable
air flow.
Oregano:Closely related to marjoram, oregano has a woody stalk with small green
leaves. Considered less sweet than marjoram, it is thought to have a stronger, more
peppery flavor. A ubiquitous pizza sauce flavoring, oregano is also widely used in
Medicinal value: Oregano contains at least four compounds that soothe coughs and
19 chemicals with antibacterial action that may help reduce body odor. The
ingredients in oregano that soothe coughs may also help un-knot muscles in the
digestive tract, making oregano a digestive aid. This familiar spice also contains
compounds that can lower blood pressure too.
Parsley: Parsley has long, slender stalks and feathery leaves. It has a tangy, fresh,
sometimes lemony flavor. There are two main types: curly leaf and flat leaf. The flat-
leaf type has a more intense, peppery flavor. A popular garnish, parsley also can be
added to soups, marinades, and salads. Both types are often used to bring out the
flavor of other herbs. The flat-leaf variety is typically used for cooking because of its
more intense flavor. The flavor of both types is stronger in the stalks.
Medicinal value: Parsley is a vitamin and mineral powerhouse, and as such should be
part of every medicinal garden. Parsley contains a large amount of chlorophyll, and as
such is a natural breath sweetener. Eat the leaves right off the plant to combat breath
odors. Throughout history, Parsley Teas have been used mainly as kidney stone,
bladder infection, and jaundice medications, as well as digestive aids. The root
appears to be more effective than the leaves, but leaves can also be used. Leaves can
be dried, pulverized into a powder, and inserted in capsules, if desired.
Rosemary: Rosemary has needle-shaped evergreen leaves and a piney, lemon flavor.
Rosemary is used to season a variety of dishes, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine.
It may be sprinkled on another of this region‘s specialties: focaccia bread. Rosemary
branches can be burned under grilled meat or fish for a more subtle flavor. Use
rosemary judiciously. It can be overpowering.
Medicinal value: it has lots of medicinal uses, including use as a tonic, a digestive
aid, to treat depression, headaches, and muscle spasms, and as an expectorant,
promoter of menstrual flow, and stimulant for production of bile. Externally, its oil
made into an ointment has been said to treat rheumatism, sores, eczema, bruises, and
wounds. Rosemary taken internally as a medicine can be an irritant to the stomach,
intestines, and kidneys, so use it sparingly.
Sage: The soft, somewhat furry gray-green leaves of this herb have a pungent and
camphor-like taste and aroma. A strongly flavored herb, sage enhances poultry
stuffing, sausage, veal, and tomato sauces. Excellent for flavoring oils and vinegar,
sage goes well with thyme and oregano.
Medicinal value: Of all the culinary herbs, sage is perhaps the one with the broadest
range of medicinal uses. Sage is anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory
and anti-microbial; plus it helps cleanse your blood and may even prevent Alzheimer's
disease.
Sorrel: The slender, arrow-shaped leaves of sorrel impart a sharp or acidic flavor to
creamed soups, meats, omelets, vegetables, or breads. Its flavor is due to oxalic acid,
Medicinal value: Sorrel is known to be a sedative, a diuretic, tonic and is also a folk
remedy for cancer, reduction blood pressure, mild bladder infections, nausea and also
promotes regular urination. Organic Sorrel includes all these healing properties with a
unique and refreshing taste. It is also known for its medicinal uses against ailments
such as fever, stomach cramps, inflammation, common cold, and bronchial
complaints.
Tarragon:Native to Siberia, this herb has narrow and pointed, highly aromatic dark-
green leaves. It has a delicate anise flavor with undertones of sage. A staple in French
sauces, tarragon is also widely used in chicken, fish, and vegetable dishes. It may be
used as a flavoring for wine vinegar. There are two types of tarragon: French and
Russian. The French variety has a delicate flavor, whereas the Russian tarragon has a
stronger, slightly bitter taste.
Thyme: There are several varieties of this herb, which has small, grey-green leaves
and tiny purple flowers. Garden thyme is the most widely used for cooking. It has a
strong, somewhat bitter flavour. Thyme is often used in herb butters, stuffing, soups,
and dishes with potatoes or beans as the main ingredient. It is excellent in pasta sauces
and is considered an important culinary herb in Europe, particularly in France. Lemon
thyme is best suited for fish and egg dishes. Lemon thyme also can be used to make
herbal tea.
Medicinal value: It has been used through the centuries as a remedy for many
ailments, from epilepsy to melancholy. Nowadays, it is prescribed by herbalists for
intestinal worms, gastrointestinal ailments, bronchial problems, laryngitis, diarrhea,
and lack of appetite. It has antiseptic properties, and can be used as a mouthwash, skin
cleanser, anti-fungal agent for athlete's foot and as an anti-parasitic for lice, scabies,
and crabs. For skin inflammations and sores, make a poultice by mashing the leaves
into a paste.
Allspice: Also known as Jamaican pepper, allspice is ground from the hard brown
berries of the allspice tree, which grows in Mexico and throughout the Caribbean.
Allspice is so named because it imparts the flavor of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon.
An excellent addition to marinades, allspice is also used to flavor cured and jerked
meat, desserts, and sauces. It is also an ingredient in gingerbread. The finest allspice
trees are thought to be grown in Jamaica. Use the spice sparingly to avoid
overpowering other ingredients.
Anise Seeds: The tiny gray-green anise seeds come from a plant belonging to the
parsley family. They have a licorice flavor (anise is used to make licorice), but one
that also imparts a feeling of warmth when the seeds are eaten. Used to flavor breads,
candies, and alcoholic drinks, anise seeds also can be added to cabbage or braised
beef. Anise seed is a common ingredient in Indian vegetable and fish curries. Anise
complements the flavor of cinnamon and nutmeg in baked goods. Anise leaves can be
used to make herbal tea or added to salads.
Medicinal value: This exotic seed spice contains many plant derived chemical
compounds that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health
promoting properties. Anise seed oil obtained from extraction of the seeds is found
application in many traditional medicines as stomachic, anti-septic, anti-spasmodic,
carminative, digestive, expectorant, stimulant and tonic.The spicy seeds are great
source of minerals like calcium, iron, copper, potassium, manganese zinc and
magnesium. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps
control heart rate and blood pressure. Helps in production of RBC in blood.
Asafetida: It is the dried latex (gum oleoresin) exuded from the living underground
rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, which is a perennial herb. The species
is native to Afghanistan mountains and are imported to India. Asafetida has a pungent,
unpleasant smell when raw, but in cooked dishes, it delivers a smooth flavor,
reminiscent of leeks.
Caraway Seeds: These small, crescent-shaped brown seeds have a nutty, peppery
flavor. Caraway is often used whole in rye bread or sprinkled over the top of baked
goods, particularly in Germany and many northern European countries. It can also be
added to potato salad or meat loaf or sprinkled over pasta. Ground caraway seed can
have a very strong flavor. Use sparingly. Caraway also is used to flavor aquavit, a
Scandinavian liquor.
Medicinal value: Caraway seeds are rich source of dietary fiber so it is good for
digestive tract. Fiber also binds to toxins in the food and helps protect the colon mucus
membrane from cancers. In addition, dietary fibers bind to bile salts (produced from
cholesterol) and decrease their re-absorption in colon, thus help lower serum LDL
Cardamom: Cardamom is made from the seedpods of a perennial plant that is part of
the ginger family. The seeds have a warm, sweet, slightly peppery flavor and an aroma
that combines ginger, coriander, and nutmeg. A popular ingredient in Asian cuisine,
cardamom also is used in Scandinavian cooking as a flavoring for fruit compotes,
gingerbread, and meatballs. It goes well with sweet potatoes and squash. Green
cardamom pods are the most flavorful and need to be ground before use. Pods may be
bleached or lightened, however, and this processing may affect the flavor. The
lightened pods are preferred over the ground seeds, which lose their flavor quickly.
Ground cardamom can be mixed with other spices and therefore have a blunted flavor.
Cardamom can be expensive. However, a little goes a long way. Less costly versions
may have less flavor.
Medicinal value: This exotic spice contains many plant derived chemical compounds
that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health promoting
properties. The therapeutic properties of cardamom-oil have found application in
many traditional medicines as antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive,
diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic and tonic. Controls heart rate and blood
pressure and helps in production of red blood cells.
Cayenne (Crushed Red Pepper): Made from ground dried hot chili peppers,
cayenne adds warmth to whatever foods it is added. Capsaicin found in the chili‘s
seeds and membranes gives this pepper its fire. It is popular in Mexican, Caribbean,
Chinese, and Indian cuisines. It is also widely used in barbecue sauces. Cayenne is the
main ingredient in chili powder. Go easy on the use of cayenne if you are not
accustomed to hot foods.
Medicinal value: Cayenne is a spice that is a ―must‖ for any first-aid kit. It will take
care of most bleeding problems, external or internal by the time a person counts to ten.
If the bleeding is internal, cayenne can be mixed with warm water. It is also known to
relieve gas and problems with indigestion. It is also great for relieving headaches. In
the case of gas or headache
Celery Seed: Celery seeds are the small brown seeds of the celery plant. They give a
strong celery flavoring to foods. The seeds may be somewhat bitter in taste. Added to
casseroles, fish, poultry, and sauces, celery seed is also good in potato dishes and
stuffing. Celery salt is called for in many recipes. Instead, you can use a small amount
of plain celery seed along with some lemon zest.
Medicinal value: The use of celery seed in pills for relieving pain, lowers blood
pressure, decreases heart attack. It is sedative and Seed and stalk reduces hypertension
and acts as kidney cleanser.
Chili Pepper: Chili pepper varies in intensity, flavor, and color. It is typically rusty
red. The powder also may contain cumin, garlic, oregano, or salt. This spice is used to
flavor Southwestern cuisine. It is a common ingredient in chili with beans and in chili
con carne. It adds heat to dishes with a dash of flavor. Because chili powder ranges in
flavor, many people like to grind their own powder from the chili pepper they prefer.
Medicinal value: Chili pepper contains impressive list of plant derived chemical
compounds that are known to have disease preventing and health promoting
properties. It has anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic
properties. It also found to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in obese individuals. It also
helps to protect body from injurious effects of free radicals generated during stress,
diseases conditions.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is ground from the curled bark of the evergreen cinnamon and
cassia trees throughout Asia, India, and Sri Lanka. Cinnamon is sold ground or in
sticks. A popular flavoring for cookies, pies, desserts, candies, and coffees, cinnamon
can be used to season meats, pasta, and marinades. It is excellent with sweet
vegetables. Ground cinnamon has more flavor than cinnamon sticks. Its flavor
deteriorates more quickly, however. Depending on the type, cinnamon may range from
strong and spicy to sweet and mellow.
Medicinal value: The active principles in the cinnamon spice are known to have anti-
oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-septic, local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient
(warming and soothing), carminative and anti-flatulent properties. Cinnamon has
highest anti-oxidant strength of all the food sources in nature. Useful in dental and
gum treatment procedures. Cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon-sticks has been found to
have anti-clotting action, prevents clogging of platelets in the blood vessels, and thus
helps prevent stroke and coronary artery disease. Cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon-sticks
has been found to have anti-clotting action, prevents clogging of platelets in the blood
vessels, and thus helps prevent stroke and coronary artery disease.
Cloves: Cloves are the oily unopened buds of the clove tree. They have a pungent
flavor and aroma. Cloves add flavoring to roasted meat and can be used in pies and
baked fruit dishes, cakes, cookies, and gingerbread. Cloves complement the flavor of
nutmeg and cinnamon. Ground cloves lose their flavor quickly.
Medicinal value: The active principles in the clove are known to have antioxidant,
anti-septic, local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, rubefacient (warming and soothing),
carminative and anti-flatulent properties. Eugenol in it has local anesthetic and
antiseptic properties, hence; useful in dental treatment procedures. It increases the
motility of the gastro-intestinal tract as well as improves the digestion power by
increasing gastro-intestinal enzyme secretions. Thus, helps relieve indigestion and
constipation problems. Helps control heart rate and blood pressure and protect body
from lung and oral cavity cancers.
Medicinal value: It possess anti rheumatic and anti arthritic properties, which are very
beneficial for swelling caused due to these two reasons. For others, such as swelling
Cumin: The dried seeds belonging to the parsley family, cumin have an earthy, nutty
flavor and smell. Used in many cultures, cumin is a seasoning for chickpeas, the
background flavor for chili, or added to couscous, vegetable dishes, or yogurt. Cumin
is often mistaken for caraway. If you grind your own cumin, toast cumin seeds in a dry
skillet first to intensify its flavor.
Medicinal value: Cumin seeds contain numerous phyto-chemicals that are known to
have antioxidant, carminative and anti-flatulent properties. The seeds are an excellent
source of dietary fiber. The active principles in the cumin may increase the motility of
the gastro-intestinal tract as well as increase the digestion power by increasing gastro-
intestinal enzyme secretions. Regulates growth and development, sperm generation,
digestion and nucleic acid synthesis, controls heart rate and blood pressure.
Fenugreek Seeds: Ground from the seeds of a plant belonging to the pea family,
fenugreek has a bittersweet flavor but leaves a caramel or maple-like aftertaste. A
component in many Indian dishes, fenugreek also can be added to curry powders. Or,
it may be used to flavor artificial maple syrups. Use sparingly; the flavor of fenugreek
can be overpowering.
Medicinal value: Due to its estrogen-like properties, fenugreek has been found to help
increase libido and lessen the effect of hot flashes and mood fluctuations that are
common symptoms of menopause and PMS. In India and China it has also been used
to treat arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, improve digestion, maintain a healthy metabolism,
increase libido and male potency, cure skin problems (wounds, rashes and boils), treat
sore throat, and cure acid reflux. Fenugreek also has a long history of use for the
treatment of reproductive disorders, to induce labor, to treat hormonal disorders, to
help with breast enlargement, and to reduce menstrual pain. Balances cholesterol and
high blood pressure, relieves from heartburn and acidity.
Garlic: A spice that is cloves of the herb Allium sativum. In its dehydrated form, the
flavor enzyme is released only when in combination with water. It exists in powder
form and also as salt, chips, and seasoning powder. It is used to flavor meats,
vegetables, and sauces. The garlic clove contains various nutrients as water soluble
nutrients include vitamins, enzymes, amino acids and natural sugars & oil soluble
nutrients includes sulphur compounds originating from an amino acid named alliin
which is converted to a pungent compound called allicin which has natural antibiotic
properties. Presence of sulphur in garlic is the cause of its pungent smell.
Medicinal value: Garlic acts as an antiseptic & helps in curing the wounds very
quickly. It helps in fighting against various infection & acts against inflammation and
infection, including colds, asthma, bronchitis, coughs by adding a freshly cut raw
clove to food three times a day. They help in lowers down the blood pressure &
cardiovascular problems. It increases the levels of high density lipoproteins & reduces
harmful cholesterol in the blood & keeps arteries and heart healthy. It thins the blood,
reduces clotting and helps in controlling blood pressure and poor circulation.
Ginger: In fresh form, the knobby gingerroot‘s peel is discarded and its flavorful flesh
is sliced, chopped, or minced and added to dishes for its peppery, sweet, and pungent
flavor. The dried form is ground from the ginger root. This brownish gold spice has a
warm, slightly sweet, slightly citrus flavor. Fresh ginger is popular in Asian and Indian
cuisine. Ground ginger also is used in many baked goods and desserts. Ginger is the
basis for ginger beer and ginger ale. Pickled ginger root is an Asian delicacy and is
often served with sushi. Although fresh ginger can be substituted for the dried form,
do not substitute dried in place of fresh because the flavors are quite different.
Juniper Berry: The hard purple berries of an evergreen bush, juniper berries have a
turpentine-like flavor. Juniper berries add a spicy, pungent flavor to game, red
cabbage, or meat stews. Juniper berries give gin its flavor. Berries should be crushed
before they are used.
Licorice Root: From this woody plant licorice flavor is extracted and used in candy
and medications. The extract also may be used to color and thicken stout or porter
beers. The sweet taste of natural licorice extract if ingested in large quantities has
adverse effects on blood pressure. For this reason, in the United States, most licorice
candy is flavored with anise or is artificially flavored (check labels).
Medicinal value: it is widely used for treatment and control of chronic viral hepatitis,
tuberculosis and blood pressure.
Mace and Nutmeg: Both come from the same tree. Nutmeg is ground from the seed.
Mace is from the seed‘s covering. Both have a sweet, warm flavor. Mace is somewhat
more pungent. Favorites in baked goods and fruit dishes, mace and nutmeg can also
enhance the flavor of stewed beef or poultry or can be added to baked vegetables.
Nutmeg is a key spice in holiday classic, eggnog. Both are excellent toppings for the
foamed milk on espresso coffee drinks.
Medicinal value: Nutmeg spice as well as mace contains many plant derived chemical
compounds that are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health
promoting properties. The active principles in nutmeg have many therapeutic
applications in many traditional medicines as anti-fungal, anti-depressant, aphrodisiac,
digestive and carminative functions. It helps to control heart rate and blood pressure
and helps in production of red blood cells.
Medicinal value: Because of the presence of mucilages, mustard has laxative effects.
The white seeded mustard has milder effects, being a source of vegetal oil and an
excellent source of proteins, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Combining it with
warm water has the consequence of increasing arterial pressure and stimulating blood
circulation. At the same time, mustard has anti-inflammatory properties.
Nigella: The seeds of N. sativa, known as kalonji, black cumin (though this can also
refer to Bunium persicum), onion seed or just nigella, are used as a spice in Indian and
Middle Eastern cuisines. The dry-roasted nigella seeds flavor curries, vegetables and
pulses. The black seeds taste like a combination of onions, black pepper and oregano,
and have a bitterness to them like mustard seeds. It can be used as a "pepper" in
recipes with pod fruit, vegetables, salads and poultry.
Medicinal value: The seeds of Nigella Sativa are beneficial for the digestive system,
soothing stomach pains and spasms and easing wind, bloating and colic. The ripe seed
is anthelmintic, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue,
galactogogue, laxative and stimulant. An infusion is used in the treatment of digestive
and menstrual disorders, insufficient lactation and bronchial complaints. The seeds are
used in India to increase the flow of milk in nursing mothers and can be used to treat
intestinal worms, especially in children. Externally, the seed is ground into a powder,
mixed with sesame oil and used to treat abscesses, hemorrhoids and orchitis. The
powdered seed been used to remove lice from the hair.
Paprika: Bright russet-orange in color, paprika is made from ground sweet red
peppers. Depending on the variety, paprika may add either a mild, sweet flavor or hot.
Medicinal value: It has been determined that paprika is both a stimulant or energy
booster and an antibacterial agent. Also, it is believed that the spice can be used to
promote saliva and stomach acid production which in turn promotes better digestion.
And scientific research aside, some cultures have been using paprika to regulate blood
pressure
Pomegranate seeds: These are obtained from ripe pomegranate. These are taken out
of the ripe fruit and thn are dried. The taste of the outer covering is sweet, but the inner
seed is somewhat bitter. The taste differs depending on the subspecies of pomegranate
and its ripeness.
Medicinal value: The rind of the fruit and the bark of the pomegranate tree is used as
a traditional remedy against diarrhea, dysentery and intestinal parasites. The seeds and
juice are considered a tonic for the heart and throat, and classified as a bitter-astringent
(pitta or fire) component under the Ayurvedic system, and considered a healthful
counterbalance to a diet high in sweet-fatty (kapha or earth) components. The
astringent qualities of the flower juice, rind and tree bark are considered valuable for a
variety of purposes, such as stopping nose bleeds and gum bleeds, toning skin, (after
Poppy: Poppy seed is an oilseed obtained from the opium poppy. The tiny kidney-
shaped seeds have been harvested from dried seed pods by various civilizations for
thousands of years. The seeds are used, whole or ground, as an ingredient in many
foods, and they are pressed to yield poppy seed oil. Whole poppy seeds are widely
used as a spice and decoration in and on top of many baked goods. In Indian cuisine,
white poppy seeds are added for thickness, texture and also give added flavor to the
recipe. Commonly used in the preparation of korma, ground poppy seed, along with
coconut and other spices, are combined as the masala to be added at the end of the
cooking step. It is quite hard to grind them when raw, so they are normally dry fried,
and then mixed with a little water to get the right paste consistency.
Medicinal value: Poppy seeds contain many plant derived chemical compounds that
are known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health promoting properties. It
prevents coronary artery disease and heart strokes. Poppy seeds outer coat is rich in
dietary fiber and so they increase bulk of the food by absorbing water throughout the
digestive system and easing constipation condition. The chemicals in poppy seeds
have beneficial effects on human body; soothe nervous irritability, act as pain-killers,
and used in pharmacy as well as in many traditional medicines in the preparations of
cough mixtures, expectorants etc.
Saffron: One of the most expensive spices, this golden red spice is made from the
powdery stigma of a purple-flowered crocus. Saffron is used for soups, seafood,
poultry, and rice dishes. It is a popular seasoning in Indian, Italian, and Spanish
cuisine. It also can be added to baked goods. Saffron needs to be dissolved in a
teaspoon or so of warm water before use. Powdered saffron may have other
ingredients added to it, and these reduce its flavor.
Medicinal value: Saffron contains many plant derived chemical compounds that are
known to have anti-oxidant, disease preventing and health promoting properties. It
helps protect body from oxidant-induced stress, cancers, infections and acts as
immune modulators. The active components in saffron have many therapeutic
applications in many traditional medicines as antiseptic, antidepressant, anti-oxidant,
digestive, anti-convulsant. It is also rich iron, potassium, calcium, manganese and zinc
along with many vital vitamins including vitamin A, folic acid, riboflavin,
niacin, vitamin-C that are essential for optimum health.
Sesame Seeds: The tiny flat seeds of a plant native to India, sesame seeds have a
nutty, slightly sweet taste. Sesame seeds are used as a topping for bread and crackers.
A paste made from the seeds (tahini) is combined with chickpeas to make hummus.
Toast seeds before using them to enhance their flavor.
Medicinal value: Delicious, crunchy sesame seeds are widely considered healthful
foods. They are high in energy but contain many health benefiting nutrients, minerals,
antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for wellness. It prevents coronary artery
disease. The seeds are also very good source of dietary proteins with fine quality
amino acids that are essential for growth, especially in children. Many of the minerals
Star anis: Star anise comes by its name honestly, with its star shape and a licorice
taste similar to regular anise, only stronger. Star anise is the seed pod of an evergreen
tree (Illicium Verum) grown in southwestern China and Japan. It is about one inch
high with eight segments and a dark brown rust color. Like regular anise, star anise
gets its distinctive licorice taste from a chemical compound called anethol. Star anise
plays a key role in the slow cooked dishes that characterize Eastern Chinese cuisine.
Its licorice flavor enhances red cooked dishes, as well as eggs simmered in black tea.
Star anise is one of the spices in five-spice powder.
Peppercorns: Despite the name, these dried berries are not related to traditional black
peppercorns. They come from a type of ash tree and have a peppery, somewhat citrus
taste. Popular in Indian and Chinese cuisine, peppercorns often are mixed with salt or
used as a flavoring for cooking oils. This flavored oil also can be used as a salad
dressing.
Medicinal value: One of the popular ingredients of East Asian cooking, the peppers
are indeed very rich source of essential oils, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They
also aid in the digestion power by increasing gastro-intestinal juice in the gut. Pepper
corns are also good source of vitamins such as vitamin A, carotenes, pyridoxine, and
thiamin and minerals like copper, potassium, iron, manganese, phosphorous, selenium
and zinc.
Turmeric: Deep yellow in color, this spice is made from a root related to ginger. It
has a sharp, woodsy taste. Widely used in Indian cuisine, turmeric is added to potatoes
and light colored vegetables for both taste and its yellowish orange color. Turmeric
can be substituted for saffron.
Medicinal value: The root has been in use since antiquity for its anti-inflammatory
(painkiller), carminative, anti-flatulent and anti-microbial properties. Curcumin, a
poly-phenolic compound, is the principal pigment that imparts deep orange color to
the turmeric. It has anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-amyloid, anti-ischemic,
and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular herb contains no cholesterol; but is rich
in anti-oxidants and dietary fiber, which helps to control blood LDL or "bad
cholesterol" levels. It is very rich source of many essential vitamins such
as pyridoxine (vitamin-6), choline, niacin, and riboflavin etc, which are essential for
optimum health. Fresh root contains very good levels of vitamin-C. It is a water-
soluble vitamin and a powerful natural anti-oxidant; helps body develop immunity
against infectious agents. Turmeric contains very good amounts of minerals like
calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, zinc, and magnesium. Potassium is an
important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood
pressure.
Vanilla: A spice usually sold in liquid form, vanilla is extracted from the dried seed
pods (beans) of a tropical plant belonging to the orchid family. It has a sweet, rich
scent and flavor. Added to cookies, cakes, and other baked goods, vanilla is a widely
used flavoring for ice cream, desserts, and coffees. Check the label to make sure you
are getting real vanilla extract. Real vanilla extract, which has far more flavor than
synthetic vanilla flavorings, is also much more expensive. ―Vanilla‖ brought back
from tropical areas may contain coumarin, a harmful substance that can cause kidney
and liver damage.
Medicinal value: The main chemical components in the beans are vanillin and
numerous traces of other constituent. Vanilla drink was thought to have aphrodisiac
qualities, however no research studies establishes its role in the treatment of erectile
dysfunction. The extract contains small amounts of B-complex group of vitamins such
as niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, riboflavin and vitamin B-6. These B-complex
groups of vitamins help in enzyme synthesis, nervous system function and regulating
body metabolism. This spice also contains small traces of minerals such as calcium,
magnesium, potassium, manganese, iron and zinc. Potassium in an important
component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure.
Manganese and copper are used by the body as co-factors for the antioxidant enzyme
superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor
for cytochrome oxidases enzymes.
3.4 Cereals
Cereal crops or grains are mostly grasses cultivated for their edible grains or fruit
seeds. The word 'cereal' is derived from 'Ceres', the name of the pre-Roman goddess
of harvest and agriculture. Cereal grains supply most of their food energy as starch.
They are also a significant source of protein, though the amino acid balance, with
exceptions as noted below, is not optimal. Whole grains are good sources of dietary
fiber, essential fatty acids, and other important nutrients. Rice is eaten as cooked entire
grains, although rice flour is also produced. Oats are rolled, ground, or cut into bits
(steel-cut oats) and cooked into porridge. Most other cereals are ground into flour or
meal, which is milled. The outer layers of bran and germ are removed. This lessens the
nutritional value but makes the grain more resistant to quality deterioration and makes
the grain more appealing to many palates. Once (optionally) milled and ground, the
resulting flour is made into bread, pasta, desserts, dumplings, and many other
products. Besides cereals, flour is sometimes made from potatoes, cassava, cooking
banana, chestnuts and pulses (especially chickpeas, which is known as besan). Cereal
grains are grown globally in extensive areas covering millions of hectares and provide
more energy worldwide than any other type of crop; they are therefore staple crops. In
developed nations, cereal consumption is moderate and varied but still substantial. The
cereal grains belong to the monocotyledonous family, Gramineae or grass family. The
word cereal is derived from the word Ceres, the Roman Goddess of grain. The
principal crops are rice, wheat, maize or corn, jowar, ragi.
3.4.1.1 WHEAT
It belongs to the genus triticum with 30,000 families. The kernel is 1/8 –1/4 inch long,
ovoid in shape, rounded in both ends. Along one side of the grain there is a crease, a
folding of the aleurone and all covering layers. Wheat is consumed mostly in form of
flour and small quantity s used in breakfast foods such as wheat flakes and puffed
wheat. It is converted into flour for the production of bread and other bakery products.
It is used as ―chapatti‖ (unleavened pan-baked bread) in India. Owing to its high price,
the use of wheat for industrial purposes and animal feed is very limited.
Composition:
Carbohydrate 95 %
Proteins 5%
Types of Flour
Name Description
Whole- It is the whole milled wheat kernel. The flour is cream to
meal flour brown in colour as it is grounded including the entire kernel.
Because they contain bran, whole-grain flours have much
more fiber than refined white all purpose flours. The presence
of bran reduces gluten
All purpose The all purpose flour is a blend of flours and has medium
Weak It is finely milled soft wheat flour. This flour has high starch
flour/cake content less and gluten than all purpose flours and hence, it
flour is used for products that need a softer texture such as cookies
and cakes and sponges.
Self-raising This is also a type of all purpose flour, where baking powder
flour is added in proportion to the flour. It is of medium strength
and high in sodium. This flour is commonly used in pre-
packaged mixes, such as cakes mixes and biscuit mixes and
is used in home cooking.
Strong flour It is milled from high protein hard wheat. The strong flours
absorb more water than weak flours, as gluten can absorb
twice their own weight or water. This flour is used form
products which will have a high rise in the oven such as yeast
breads, choux pastry, and puff pastry. Strong flour is also
known as baker‘s flour.
Pastry flour It is a very finely ground polished wheat flour of soft wheat
kernels, They have high starch content and may be bleached
or unbleached. Its gluten content is greater than cake flour
and is used in preparation of flaky pie crust, cookies, biscuits,
and sorted pastries.
Graham This flour is named after Dr. Sylvester Graham of USA, who
flour advocated the use of whole wheat flour in early 1800s. The
wheat kernels are grounded finely and the bran and germ is
separated. This separated bran and germ is again finely
grounded and mixed with the endosperm flour.
Functions of Flour
b. Absorbs liquids: Ingredients like flour that absorb liquids are also called driers.
Starches, proteins, and gums are the three main components in flour that absorb
moisture (water) and oil, helping to bind ingredients together. The absorption value of
flour is an important quality factor in bread baking. Water absorption values of most
bread flours range around 50–65 percent, meaning that 1 pound (450 grams) of flour
absorbs over 0.5 pound (225 grams) of water. While several factors affect the
absorption value of flour, doughs that absorb more water typically have higher protein
content.
c. Contributes flavour: Clean and full bodied wheat flour has mild and nutty flavour
which is generally considered desirable for bakery products.
d. Contributes colour: Flours vary in color. For example, regular whole wheat has a
nut-brown color, whole white wheat flour has a golden color, durum has a pale yellow
color, unbleached white flour a creamy color, and cake flour a stark white color. These
colors carry over to the color of baked goods.
e. Adds nutritional value: Essentially all flours and grain products contribute
complex carbohydrates (starch), vitamins, minerals, and protein.
3.4.1.2 RICE
It is the staple diet of half of the world‘s population. The germ, the pericarp and
aleurone, which are richer than endosperm in nutrients like protons, minerals and
vitamins, are separated from the grain during milling along with the husk.
Composition:
Carbohydrates 72 – 75 %
Proteins 7%
Minerals 8 % (iron, phosphorus, calcium and trace elements)
Types:
Brown Rice – any rice that has had the outer covering removed but retains its
bran and as a result is more nutritious.
Whole grain rice- whole and unprocessed rice.
Wild rice- seed of an aquatic plant related to the rice family.
Ground rice- used for milk puddings.
Rice flour- Used for thickening certain soups, e.g. cream soups.
Rice paper- a thin edible paper produced from rice, used in the preparation of
macaroons and nougat.
Precooked instant rice, par boiled, ready cooked and boil in the bag is also
available.
Dis-advantages of Par-boiling
Sometimes it emits unpleasant smell and hence not preferred.
Color changes occur during par boiling.
Rice products:
1. Boiled rice – plain, pulaos, Biriyanis.
2. Rice Starch: granules are quite small and are embedded in a protein matrix.
Rice starch is used in puddings, ice-creams and custard powder. It forms a
tender opaque gel. Also used as as binding agent and thickening agent.
3. Rice Bran- Breakage of the white rice kernel during milling also results in
small fragments of the endosperm becoming part of the bran fraction. It can be
used in the preparation like bread, snacks, cookies, and biscuits. In addition
rice bran is a very rich source of dietary fiber so it is an effective stool bulking
agent.
4. Rice Bran oil- This oil is rich in Vitamin E which gives oxidative stability to
the oil. In addition it has higher cholesterol lowering effect than other oils. It is
used for human consumption (rich in vitamin E) and soap making.
5. Parched Rice products – About 4-5 % of total supplies of rice in India is
converted into rice products- parched rice, parched paddy and rice flakes.
Parched Rice-parboiled rice is used in making parched rice. Parched rice
(murmura)is a crisp product with a grayish to brilliant white colour and is sold
either salted or unsalted. It is eaten as such or mixed with butter milk and then
consumed.
6. Flaked Rice –or chura is made from parboiled rice, the husk is separated and
is thin and papery and of white colour.
7. Various types of savories.
8. Sweets- like modak, kheer
9. Wine- used mainly in South Asian and Chinese cuisine
10. Noodles- Chinese/ Thai rice noodles
11. Rice salads.
Cooking rice:
Rice expands approximately three times when boiled, so careful calculations should be
made to achieve the appropriate quantity of cooked rice. Always put rice in boiling
water with little salt. Salt improves color, texture and taste.
The objective when cooking is to keep separate and fluffy.
Two methods of cooking rice are:
By draining method – in which excess water is drained - where most of the
nutrients are thrown away. For proper cooking rice is cooked up to 90 % and
then drained and kept tightly covered with a lid for 10 minutes.
By absorption method – Here less water is used – generally the ratio is two is
to one. Here water is completely absorbed. Cooking rice with this method
needs careful consideration and skill, as one should know the quality of rice is
being used and the amount of moisture it will absorb.
Storage: Rice should be stored in cool, well ventilated place away from moisture or
the reach of rodents.
3.4.1.3 MAIZE
It is extensively cultivated throughout the world. It is usually eaten as such when it is
raw and tender. It is available as maize flour and breakfast cereal like cornflakes. Corn
oil and cornstarch made from maize are also used in cooking. Maize is also known as
corn, sweet corn or corn-on-the-cob, and also can be served as vegetables.
Varieties of corn:
Baby corn (Chinese baby corn)-These are tiny ears of corn that are eaten cob
and all. Asian cooks like to add them to stir-fried dishes, and they often show
up in salad bars. It's hard to find them fresh, but many markets sell them in
cans or jars.
Popcorn-Air-popped popcorn is a very popular snack that's high in fiber and
low in fat - assuming that you don't add lots of butter and salt.
Purple corn (Maiz morado)-Peruvians use this to make beautiful purple drinks
and puddings.
Indian Corn-It is more of an ornamental corn used for decoration during
festival seasons. Kernels or the cob variation in colour and therefore used in
decoration and for eating.
Composition:
Protein 11 %
Carbohydrate 70 %
Water 20 %
Other minerals and vitamins
Processing:
Dry milling – The grains are grinded in roller mills to obtain flour. Oil is
obtained from germ cells. Large as well as small grits are pounded to prepare
cornflakes and breakfast cereals.
Wet milling – In this corn syrup and ethanol is produced.
Products of Maize:
De-germinated flour-It is used by brewers as a starch medium for the action of barley
malt in the preparation of wort for the production of beer.
Corn germ oil: The fat content of maize is 3.6 % and oil extracted from it can be
refined to produce a high quality vegetable oil for cooking or food use.
Popcorn: The popping of corn is a method of starch cookery. Popping can be done
with or without fat.
Cornflour: Cornflour is produced from maize and is the crushed endosperm of the
grain which has the fat and protein washed out so that it is practically pure
starch. It is used for making custard and blancmange powders, because it
thickens very easily with a liquid, and sets when cold into a smooth paste that
cannot be made from other starches.
Corn starch is used for thickening soups , sauces ,custard, as binding agents and
also in the making of certain small and large cakes.
3.4.1.4 OATS
Oats are highly nutritious and filled with cholesterol-fighting soluble fiber. They also
have a pleasant, nutty flavor. Oat is the only cereal containing a globulin or legume-
like protein, avenalin, as the major (80%) storage protein. Globulins are characterized
by water solubility; because of this property, oats may be turned into milk but not into
bread.
Most of us are familiar with rolled oats, which are used as a hot breakfast cereal and
cookie ingredient, but many health food stores also stock oat groats and oat bran.
Oat varieties:
Instant oats (instant oatmeal)-These are very thin, precooked oats that need
only be mixed with a hot liquid. They usually have flavorings and salt added.
They're convenient, but not as chewy and flavorful as slower-cooking oats.
Oat groats-Oat groats are minimally processed- only the outer hull is removed.
They're very nutritious, but they're chewy and need to be soaked and cooked a
long time.
Quick oats-These are thin flakes of oatmeal that cook up in about three or four
minutes. They're a good choice for oatmeal cookies. Sweetened porridge with
milk is a good breakfast cereal.
3.4.1.5 JOWAR
or sorghum millet are grown in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya
Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. These are easily digestible grains
so they are recommended for small children.
Nutritive value:
Rich in proteins, carbohydrates and minerals and vitamin B complex vitamins. Poor in
Vitamin A but richer in fibers.
Processing:
Involves wet milling, where top layer being the color and fiber is removed by abrasion
Uses:
Used in making bread or bhakari.
Some jowar is consumed parched.
Malted jowar is used in infant foods
3.4.1.6 BAJRA
Among millets, bajra is the predominant crop in India Has almost the same quality as
wheat, but it also rich in Iron, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin.
They are de-husked and polished and cooked in the same way as rice.
Uses:
They can be cooked as rice or parched or milled to flour to prepare roti or
bhakari.
Sometimes eaten as parched
The grain is suitable for the preparation of malt.
3.4.1.7 RAGI
Ragi is known as finger millet constitutes over 25% food grains in India. Pulses are
considered as poor man‘s meat due to their high protein content ranging from 20 to
40% and this makes them important in human food from nutrition point of view. It is
Prevention of lumps
The direct addition of dry starch to boiling liquid causes lump formation. This is
caused because as soon the starch powder comes in contact to the hot liquid, the outer
layer gelatinizes and becomes sticky, preventing water to go inside.
Lumps can be prevented by: -
1. Agitation - Flour should be added slowly with constantly stirring so that each
particle gelatinizes separately and get dispersed well.
2. Flakes and granules – Instead of flour, if flakes or granules are added, they
will not gelatinize immediately as their particles are bigger and hence no lump
formation will take place.
3. Paste – Cold-water paste is made of flour and then added to the hot liquid.
4. Below boiling point – Cereal flour should be added to the liquid below the
boiling point so as all the particles get dispersed before gelatinization.
5. Addition of fat – If the particles are sautéed / fried in fat, all the particles get
coating of fat and stickiness and lump formation is avoided.
6. Addition of sugar – Sugar competes with water and decreases gelatinization
and lump formation.
3.5 Pulses
Pulses are edible fruits or seeds of pod bearing plants belonging to the family of the
leguminous. The major pulses which find important place in our dietaries are red gram
dhal, Bengal gram dhal, black gram dhal, green gram dhal and massor dhal. Some are
used as whole grams. Cow peas, rajamah and dry peas also belong to leguminous
family. Legumes not only have dietary values but also play an important role in
maintaining or even improving soil fertility through their ability to fix atmospheric
nitrogen
2. Dry broad beans: Broad beans are eaten while still young and tender. The beans
can be fried, causing the skin to split open, and then salted and/or spiced to produce a
savory crunchy snack. These are popular in China, Peru (habas saladas), Mexico
(habas con chile) and in Thailand (where their name means "open-mouth nut").
Example:
1. Horse bean
2. Broad bean
3. Field bean.
3. Dry pea: Dry pea is an annual pulse, legume crop that is consumed throughout the
globe. It is usually used in split form and forms integral part of various cuisines of the
world. The pea is obtained as seeds from the pod of the pea plant and is dried in the
sunlight to produce dry pea.
Example:
Green peas
4. Chick pea: The chickpea (also called Indian pea, chana or channa) is an edible
legume. It is used as a source of protein by vegetarians and vegans since it has one of
the highest protein levels of all plants.
Example:
Chick pea (chana)- desi or kabuli
5. Cow pea: Dry cowpea also called black-eyed pea or black eye bean or China bean
or Southern pea is originally from China.
Example:
Soya beans
6. Pigeon pea: Pigeon peas are both a food crop (dried peas, flour, or green vegetable
peas) and a forage / cover crop. The dried peas may be sprouted briefly, and then
cooked, for a flavor different from the green or dried peas. Sprouting also enhances the
digestibility of dried pigeon peas via the reduction of indigestible sugars that would
otherwise remain in the cooked dried peas.
Example: Toor (Arhar) dal
7. Lentil: Like other legumes, lentils are low in fat and high in protein and fiber, but
they have the added advantage of cooking quickly. Lentils have a mild, often earthy
3.6 Fruits
Fruits may be classified
into 8 categories:
Uses of Fruits:
1. As juices
2. For grilling ( P/A,
Bananas. Grapefruits)
3. Baking
4. Sautéing
5. Deep-frying
6. Poaching
7. As salads
8. Jams and jellies
Purchasing of
vegetables and fruits:
In general, many
fresh
commodities
must necessarily
be shipped in
firm condition,
such as pears,
tomatoes, Figure 3.3 Varieties of Spices
cauliflower, avocados and tomatoes. Better retailers are conditioning these
products to just the stage of ripeness the consumer likes - by the time they
arrive at the point of sale.
Check the characteristic signs of freshness such as bright, lively color and
crispness. Vegetables are usually at their best quality and price at the peak of
their season.
Demand freshness! Check the characteristic signs of freshness such as bright,
lively color and crispness. Vegetables are usually at their best quality and price
at the peak of their season.
3.7 Vegetables
The term vegetables refer to any herbaceous plant that can be wholly or partially
eaten. The parts which can be consumed include may be items, leaves, buds, roots,
tubers, seeds and flowers. Vegetables contain more starch, fibers and less sugar than
fruits, so they tend to be savory than sweet and are generally eaten cooked unlike fruits
which are eaten raw. Vegetables are in particular divided into 9 categories-cabbages,
fruit vegetables, gourds, squashes, greens, mushrooms and truffles, onions, pods and
seeds, roots and tubers and stalk. But in broadly they can be classified into three
categories:1. Root vegetables 2. Leafy vegetables 3. Other vegetables grown above
the ground (Fig 9.1).
3.8 Salt
These are chemical compound (other than water) formed by a chemical reaction
between an acid and a base. Salt for human consumption is produced in different form
sun refined salt (such as sea salt), refined salt (table salt), and iodized salt. It is a
crystalline solid, white, pale pink or light gray in color, normally obtained from sea
water or rock deposits. Edible rock salts may be slightly grayish in color because of
mineral content.
Classification of salt:
a. Table salt- Once of the most widely used salts, table salt goes through a
refining process that removes traces of other naturally occurring minerals.
Chemical additives such as sodium silicoaluminate, calcium phosphate, or
magnesium carbonate are sometimes blended in to prevent clumping. Table salt
and iodized salt are preferred in baking for their fine-grained texture and
accuracy of measure.
b. Iodized salt- A form of table salt, iodized salt is fortified with iodine that was
lost during processing. Iodized salt was the first functional food, fortified in the
early 1920s in response to a Midwest-focused epidemic of goiter
(hyperthyroidism) that was caused by iodine deficiencies.
c. Kosher salt- This inexpensive coarse salt is evaporated from a brine, usually
under specific conditions approved by the Orthodox Jewish faith. It contains no
additives or added iodine. It has a much larger grain size than some common
table salt. Like common table salt, kosher salt consists of the chemical
compound sodium chloride.
d. Sea salt- Available in both fine and coarse grains, sea salt has become
increasingly available in markets but at a higher cost than table or kosher salt.
Sea salt is made from evaporated sea water. Some salt farmers evaporate the
water in enclosed bays along the shoreline, then rake up the salt by hand.
e. Rock salt- Sold in large crystals, rock salt has a grayish hue because it is
unrefined. Rock salt makes a great bed for serving oysters and clams. Or
combine it with ice to make ice cream in hand-cranked ice cream makers.
f. Black salt or kala namak or black Indian salt- is a salty and pungent smelling
condiment used in India. The condiment is composed largely of sodium chloride
with several impurities lending the salt its colour and smell. The smell is mainly
due to sulfur content.
g. Smoked salt is an aromatic edible salt product with smoke flavoring. It is a
seasoning and is used as a shortcut to add smoked flavor to foods. Smoked salt
consists mainly of sea salt and smoke volatiles condensed on the salt. An
ingredient typically listed on smoked salt is sawdust.
Uses of salt:
1. Acts as preservative, as it acts on microorganisms, extracts the liquid from
them and then kills them.
2. Acts as anti-raising agent- regulates the leavening processes in breads by
controlling the action of yeast.
3. Acts as tenderizers- it breaks the cells and tissues of the flesh and makes it
more tender to be cooked easily
4. Acts as taste enhancer
5. Preparation of brine solution for curing of meat, fish and poultry.
3.9 Sweeteners
It is a class of sweet tasting carbohydrate in concentrated form of sucrose. It consists
of a molecule of glucose combined with a molecule of Fructose. It is formed naturally
in the leaves, stems, roots or fruits of plants. Sugar may be obtained from varied plants
like from maple tree- Canada, date palm- Africa, sugarcane- tropical region, beetroots
from temperate region and from sorghum, grapes, potatoes, honey etc. As it occurs
naturally in nearly all plant structures, but for general commercial use. It is obtain
from two major sources, the sugarcane and sugar beet.
Manufacture of sugar: The juices are taken out by crushing the plant part and then it
is cleaned with the help of chemicals (milk of lime or carbon dioxide). It is then
filtered and concentrated by evaporation under reduced pressure until crystallization
occurs. The residue left after crystallization is called molasses (used mainly as cattle
fodder). The crystallized sugar is further refined through bone ash to get pure opaque
sugar. The different sizes of the crystals are produced by variation in boiling technique
and duration.
Forms of Sugar:
1. Turbinado sugar- also called Demirara sugar. It is partially refined, light in
color with coarse grain and caramel flavor. It is used in beverages and certain
baked products.
2. Lump sugar- obtained by molding moist granulated sugar while hot. Used in
restaurant and coffee shops.
3. Sugar loaf- sugar molded into cone shape.
4. Icing sugar- also known as confectioner‘s sugar. It is very fine sugar mixed
with 3%starch powder (corn flour). Used in dusting, decorating, icing cakes
and pastries.
5. Castor sugar- This is superfine sugar (A Grade) - made by crushing and
sieving fine granuled quality granulated sugar. Used in making pastries, cakes,
desserts, ices etc. It quickly dissolves in liquids and produces light and tender
cakes.
Uses of Sugar:
Adds sweetness and flavour to the products..
To colour the cooked products.
Makes the texture firm and tender by weakening the gluten strands.
To retain moisture and prevent in particularly baked goods such as cakes
from drying out.
Act as preservative.
To help as an activator, sugar helps yeast to grow faster by providing it with
a readily available source of nourishment.
As anti-coagulant.
Cooking of sugar:
Sl. Consistency Temperature Uses Texture
No
.
1. Coated 100o C For fruits in syrup Translucent
coating
2. Small thread 1010 C In almond paste 2-3 cm thread
3. Large thread 102-1030 C Butter cream, .5 cm thread
icing
4. Small pearl 103-1050 C Jams Rounded
bubbles
5. Large pearl 107-1090 C Jams, glaces, Bubbles with 2
icings cm threads
6. Soft ball 116-1180 C Jam, jelly, nougat Soft ball
7. Hard ball 121-1250 C Fondant, Harder ball
meringue
8. Soft crack 129-1350 C Toffee Hard, sticky
ball
9. Hard crack 149-1500 C Candies, Brittle, not
decoration sticky
10. Light caramel 151-1600 C Puddings, cakes,
biscuits
11. Dark caramel 161-1700 C Cakes, sauces,
stocks
Procedure for cooking: Add some interferon‘s (which prevent re-crystallization) like
lemon juice, cream of tarter, vinegar etc.
Storage: Sugar is stored in cool dry place in bins and away from moisture.
Characteristics: They are the most important source of energy. One gram fat gives 9
Kcals of energy.
Oils and fat fulfill the same function. All the fats that remain liquid at room
temperature (18 – 240C) and have higher melting point with the exception of
coconut oil, which is liquid in summer and solidifies in winter, are termed
‗oils‘. Oils have lower melting point.
All fats contain the same calorific value but some natural fats contain other
nutrients mixed with them.
Fats contain higher % of saturated fatty acids where oils contain more
unsaturated fatty acids.
They are insoluble in water, but soluble in certain chemicals like chloroform,
either etc.
Oils are obtained from plant products. E.g. mustard oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil,
olive oil etc.
Nutritive value:
One gram fat provides 9 k Cal of energy- so rich energy source.
They provide vitamins A, D.E and K.
Oils are important source of fatty acids.
Here is a list of common fats with short description and their uses:
ANIMAL FAT
Name Description Uses
It is the inside fat of pig. Lard has Short paste, deep-
Lard almost 100% fat content. frying, and shallow
frying.
This is the hard solid deposit near Suet paste and also for
the or around the kidney o0f the frying purpose.
animals. Beef suet is best than
Suet
mutton suet. Fresh suet is firm, dry
without any discoloration and blood
strains.
This is obtained from classified Frying
Ripping animal fat.
Made by churning cream of milk. Frying, sautéing,
Butter spread on breads.
Ghee Made by clarifying butter Frying, sautéing
VEGETABLEL FAT
Name Description Uses
This is Hydrogenated vegetable fat Frying, grilling,
with addition of Vitamin A and D. sautéing and in bakery.
Hydrogenation is done by passing As shortening agent
Vanaspati
hydrogen in the oil with the help of
catalyst. It is white in pale yellow in
color.
It is manufactured fat. It is made by Can be used, as
emulsifying highly refined, substitute of butter, but
deodorized and partially only the smell is not so
Margarine
hydrogenated cottonseed, corn or pleasant. It is used in
soybean oil with pasteurized milk. bakery as shotening
It contains 80% fat. It is cheaper agent
Changes in Fats and Oils on heating: Fats and oils give a rich flavor and texture to
food and make it crispy. It also increases the energy value of food.
The fats and oils should not be heated to smoking point, as it starts decomposing with
emission of blue smoke which is irritating and the vitamins are lost, and not good for
health. If the fat is not heated properly, the food absorbs a lot of fat and becomes
greasy. Less fat is absorbed during frying if high smoking fat is used.
Storage of Fats and Oils: When fats and oils are stored for a long time, they become
rancid by the action of air, water and enzymes. Rancidity leads to an undesirable
change in the flavor and composition. These changes occur during storage of heated
fats. Rancid fats tend s to foam and rise when heated. To prevent rancidity, fry some
potatoes or tamarind at the end, as they are believed to prevent spoilage during
storage. Strain the fat or oil after frying to remove solid particles. Store fat in a closed
Milk may be defined as the whole fresh lacteal secretion obtained by the complete
milking of healthy animals excluding that from the animals that are within 15 days or
after 15 days of calving.
Other than cows and buffalo, milk can also be obtained from sheep, goats, horses,
donkeys, camels, yaks, water buffalo and reindeer.
India is the largest producer of milk in the world followed by Finland, Sweden and
Ireland. Whale‘s milk, though not used for human consumption has the highest fat
content in mammals.
The other forms of milk are: The white juice and the processed meat of the coconut,
crushed rice and soya in more-or-less liquid form, used especially in Thai, Indian, and
Polynesian cuisine.
Nutritive composition: The milk contains calcium necessary for the bone formation
and teeth. It contains certain vitamin such as vitamin A and D, vitamin B-1, B-12 and
vitamin C the last one is smaller amount. It is also rich in protein fat and carbohydrate
and the rest 87% is water.
Human milk contains, on average, 1.1% protein, 4.2% fat, 7.0% lactose (a
sugar), and supplies 72 kcal of energy per 100 grams.
Cow's milk contains, on average, 3.4% protein, 3.6% fat, and 4.6% lactose, and
supplies 66 kcal of energy per 100 grams.
2. Homogenized milk: In this milk and cream are mixed together briskly so that they
do not separate when stand. This is done by subjecting the milk high pressure (2000
lb) per sq. inch through a small apparatus so that the fat globules are reduced in size
and increase in number, which results in easy mixture and the fats do not rise above to
the surface.
Advantages of homogenized milk:
a) Do not need mixing of fat and milk
b) Can be stored considerably for a longer period of time.
c) More palatable
d) Can be easily modified for infant feeding.
e) The viscosity of the milk increases.
f) Softer curd and cheese is formed.
g) Stiffer custards can be prepared.
Dis-advantage
a) It curdles the soup.
b) In a sauce the fat can be separated.
3. Sterilized milk: This is homogenized milk in which the milk is heated to 104-
110oC for 30-40 minute in sealed bottle, which kills the souring and disease bearing
bacteria. It has a different taste from fresh milk and the shelf life of this type of milk is
2-3 months in sealed bottle.
4. Ultra- heat treatment milk: In this the milk is treated to ultra-heat treatment that is
132oC for 1 second under sterile conditions. This extends its shelf life by 2-3 months
and allows the seal packed milk to be stored unrefrigerated, but it affects the taste
adversely.
6. Condensed milk: It is richer that evaporated milk because more water has been
removed. It may be sweetened or unsweetened, but sugar acts as preservation which is
added in form of sucrose or dextrose.
Eg. Milk maid
8. Skimmed Milk: It is that from which a part whole of their fat has been removed in
the form of cream. Skimming of milk is done by machine, called separator, which
applies the centrifugal force to remove the milk fat and often 1% of fat remains in the
milk after skimming.
Storage of milk: As milk gets curdled, it should not be kept standing for not more
than approx. 1 hour.
Keep milk in refrigerated conditions below 450F.
As milk absorbs odor from other items easily and gets contaminated, so
extreme precautions are taken. Milk should be always be kept covered.
Frozen milk should be thawed first and then boiled
Always boil the milk, cool and then refrigerate. Boiling kills all the harmful
micro-organisms.
The storing container should be fresh without any swills or odor.
Self live in refrigerator in frozen condition is approx 4-5 days.
Tinned milk should be stored in cool, dry place.
3.11.4.1 Cheese
A solid food obtained from the pressed curd from the wholly, partially or skimmed
milk of cow or from the any milk producing animal, like buffalo, ewe, goat, sheep,
camel etc., it is often seasoned and aged.
Nutritive Value of Cheese: Cheese, like many other milk products, provides protein,
vitamins, minerals, fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. While cheese is one of the best
sources of calcium, it may also be high in sodium and saturated fat. A 1½ gms serving
of natural cheese supplies the same amount of calcium as 1100 ml. of milk or yogurt,
as well as 12 to 14 gm. total fat, 9 gm. saturated fatty acids, 44 ml. cholesterol and 173
calories. For sodium, while 100 ml of milk contains 120 ml, 1½ gm of natural cheese
could contain from 110 to 450 ml, while 2 gm of process cheese could contain 800 ml.
Making of Cheese: Cheese is obtained by coagulating milk with rennet, lactic acid or
other suitable enzyme or acid with or without further treatment of separated curd by
heat or pressure or by means of ripening ferments, special moulds of seasonings. But
the most commonly used technique is to use the action of rennet on milk. Curd formed
at 1060 F is more firm where as at low temperature the curd is soft.
Milk is heated to a certain degree depending upon the type of curd required. The
rennet is then added to this milk, which takes 8-10 hours to coagulate all the milk
casein and removing the whey. When all the whey is removed, the curd mats together
and forms mould which is left for ripening. Ripening helps to improve the flavour,
texture and the colour of the cheese. The ripening period may vary from weeks to
years depending upon the quality desired. Then the cheese is stored which are called
curing, which again depends upon the period of the storage. The longer the curing
period, the sharper, richer and flavourful cheese is developed. In the process of
ripening cheese looses its toughness, rubbery qualities and becomes soft and mellow.
During ripening process the bacterial action takes place, which produces CO2, which
produces holes and veins in cheese.
4. BLUE CHEESE
They have Penicillium culture added so that the final product is spotted or veined
throughout with blue, blue-gray or blue-green mold, and carries a distinct smell.
Some blue cheeses are injected with spores before the curds form and others have
spores mixed in with the curds after they form.
Roquefort: is a sheep milk cheese with bluish green veins, tangy taste and
crumbly texture. It has its origin in England.
Gorgonzola: it is cow‘s milk cheese from Italy. It has sharp spicy flavour and
creamy texture.
Stilton: strong smelling English cheese from cow‘s milk. It is only made
cylindrical shape and has its own rust or coat.
Blue Cheshire: A cylindrical and blue version of the Cheshire and the finest of
all blue cheeses, this is made from cow milk and ripens and turns blue
'accidentally'. With a very rich taste, it is best used as a dessert cheese.
Bavarian Blue: A double creamed, soft and blue-veined cheese with a mildly
sour taste, it is best used in sandwiches as a spread.
Purchase of cheese:
From well known and reliable shopkeeper.
Inspect for any type of spoilage, breakage, mould formation, smell.
Inspect the package and labels.
You should have enough knowledge about the characteristics and texture of the
cheese. Examine the cheese, especially the aroma, appearance, and flavor. An
ammonia, sour milk, barnyardy or unclean aroma is undesirable. The cheeses
should be characteristic of their style, with an interior that is free of cracks,
discoloration, and mold (unless it is a blue cheese).
If possible taste the cheese before buying.
3.11.5.2 Butter
Definition: Butter is a dairy product made by agitating or churning fresh or fermented
cream or milk. In many parts of the world, butter is an everyday food. Butter is used as
a spread, as a condiment and in cooking applications such as baking, sauce making,
and frying. Butter consists of butterfat surrounded by droplets of water and milk
proteins. The most common form of butter is made from cows' milk, but butter can
also be made from the milk of other mammals, including sheep, goats, buffalo, camel
and yaks. Salt, flavorings, or preservatives are sometimes added to butter. Rendering
butter produces clarified butter or ghee, which is almost entirely butterfat. To be sold
in stores, butter must contain at least 80 percent milk fat. Water and milk solids make
up the other 20 percent. A firm solid when refrigerated, butter softens to a spreadable
consistency at room temperature and melts to a thin liquid consistency at 32–35 °C
(90–95 °F). The color of butter is generally a pale yellow, but can vary from deep
yellow to nearly white. The color of the butter depends on the animal's feed and is
sometimes manipulated with food colorings, most commonly carotene or annatto.
Butter production: Un-homogenized milk and cream contain butterfat in the form of
microscopic globules. These globules are surrounded by membranes made of
phospholipids (fatty acid emulsifiers) and proteins, which prevent the fat in milk from
pooling together into a single mass. Butter is produced by agitating cream, which
damages these membranes and allows the milk fats to come together and separate
from the other parts of the cream. Almost all commercially-made butter today starts
with pasteurized cream, usually heated to a relatively high pasteurization temperature
above 80 °C (180 °F). Before it is churned, the cream is cooled to about 5 °C (40 °F)
and allowed to remain at that temperature for at least eight hours; under these
conditions about half the butterfat in the cream crystallizes. Churning produces small
butter grains floating in the water-based portion of the cream called butter milk. The
buttermilk is drained off; sometimes more buttermilk is removed by rinsing the grains
with water. Then the grains are "worked": pressed and kneaded together. This
consolidates the butter into a solid mass. Commercial butter is about 80% butterfat and
15% water; traditionally-made butter may have as little as 65% fat and 30% water.
TYPES OF BUTTER
Cultured butter- Butter made from a fermented cream resulting in more
"buttery" tasting product.
Sweet cream butter- Butter made from pasteurized fresh cream. It is sweeter
in taste.
Raw cream butter- Butter made from fresh or cultured unpasteurized cream.
It has cream like flavour.
Spreadable butters- these remain softer at colder temperatures and are
therefore easier to use directly out of refrigeration. They are fortified with
vegetable oil to remain soft..
Whipped butter- spreadable butter aerated with nitrogen gas to make it more
spreadable.
Salted butter- powdered salt is added to raw butter to give it a distinct salty
taste.
Clarified butter- is butter with almost all of its water and milk solids
removed, leaving almost-pure butterfat. Clarified butter is made by heating
Uses of butter
Normal butter softens to a spreadable consistency around 15 °C (60 °F), and
can be used as spread on bread,buns, rotis and chapatis.
Butter is used for sautéing and frying, although its milk solids brown and burn
above 150 °C (250 °F)—a rather low temperature for most applications. The
actual smoke point of butterfat is around 200 °C (400 °F), so clarified butter or
ghee is better suited to frying. Ghee has always been a common frying medium
in India, where many avoid other animal fats for cultural or religious reasons.
Preparation of Hollandaise sauce.
Used in preparation of sauces, mostly in French cuisine.
Used as shortening agents in bakery.
Used for making butter icings for decorating cakes and pastries.
Used in tempering dals and curries in Indian foods
Storage
Butter should always be stored tightly wrapped. This reduces rancidity
(spoilage)
Butter should always be stored in refrigerators.
Butter absorbs odors from other foods rapidly. To prevent flavor changes, keep
butter wrapped in moisture- and vapor-proof material or in tightly covered
containers.
Opened portions of butter should be refrigerated in a covered dish.
Always serve butter in butter dish with water.
Wrap butter in hygienic plastic film, quality butter papers tightly.
3.11.5.3 Cream
Definition: Cream is a dairy product that is composed of the higher-butterfat layer
skimmed from the top of milk before homogenization. Cream produced by cows
Production
In the industrial production of cream this process is accelerated by using centrifuges
called "separators".
Types of cream
Low cream- 5-6% fat
Half and half- 10.5-18% fat
Light- 12-12.5% fat
Single cream- 18%
Pure – 35-56% fat
Whipping- 35% fat
Double – 38-48%fat
Sour cream- cream subjected to bacterial culture, so is sour in taste
Smentana- heavy cream form Europe
Crème fraiche- slightly sour cream from France
Rjome- Norwegian cream with 35% fat
Clotted cream- Cream slowly heated to dry and thicken- similar to malai.
Uses of cream
As thickening agent for soups, sauces and gravies
Increases the patability of the food.
Used as softening agent for pies and custards.
Preparation of ice cream.
Preparation of salads
Preparation of icings for cakes and gateaux.
As garnishing agents for soups, dals, and other curry dishes.
3.11.5.4 Yoghurt
Definition- it is a dairy product produced by bacterial fermentation of milk. It has a
characteristic tanginess than curd. It is a Turkish product. Dairy yoghurt is produced
using a culture of Lactobacillus bacteria.
Uses of yoghurt
Anti-diarrheal property
It has also an antibiotic property.
Preparation of soups like Tarator and Cacik.
Preparation of salads ( Khyar w laban)
Preparation of raitas.
3.11.5.5 Khoya
Khoa (also khoya) is a milk food widely used in the North Indian cuisine, made of
either dried whole milk or milk thickened by heating in an open iron pan. It is similar
to ricotta cheese, but lower in moisture and made from whole milk instead of whey.
Types of Khoya
1. Batti- meaning ―rock‘ has 50% moisture by weight. It is very hard and is
grated to use.
2. Chikna- has 80% moisture, can be mashed by hand.
3. Danedar- is coagulated milk and has moderate moisture content.
Storage of khoya
Khoya is always stored same like butter.
3.11.5.6 Curd
Definition: Curd may be defined as the byproduct formed due to the action of acids or
yeast on milk.
Types of buttermilk
a) Traditional type- In the Indian subcontinent, buttermilk is taken to be the
liquid leftover after extracting butter from churned yogurt (dahi) . Traditional
buttermilk is still common in many Indo-Pak households but rarely found in
western countries. In Southern India and most areas Punjab buttermilk with
added water, sugar and/or salt, asafoetida, and curry leaves are given at stalls in
festival times.
b) Cultured buttermilk-Buttermilk may also refer to a fermented dairy product
produced from cow's milk with a characteristically sour taste caused by lactic
acid bacteria. This variant is made in one of two ways: artificial, cultured,
buttermilk is made by adding lactic acid bacteria (Streptococcus lactis) to milk;
Bulgarian buttermilk is created with a different strain of bacteria called
Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which creates more tartness.
c) Acidified buttermilk- is a related product that is made by adding a food-grade
acid (such as lemon juice) to milk.
Operation Flood has helped farmers, direct their own development, placing control of
the resources they create in their own hands. A 'National Milk Grid', links milk
producers throughout India with consumers in over 700 towns and cities, reducing
seasonal and regional price variations while ensuring that the producer gets a major
share of the price consumers pay.
The bedrock of Operation Flood has been village milk producers' cooperatives, which
procure milk and provide inputs and services, making modern management and
technology available to members. Operation Flood's objectives included:
Increase milk production ("a flood of milk") Augment rural incomes
The effect of White revolution was that: India's milk production rose from around
30 million tonnes in 1980 to an estimated 87 million tonnes by 2003 and despite
increasing population, availability per person rose from less than 50 kilo calories per
day in 1980 to 80 kilo calories per day in 2000, a report on hunger by the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) said. The report forecasts that India's dairy
production will triple by 2020.
3.12 Summary
Cereals and pulses are the vital food components for human beings. They provide
maximum energy to humans. Varieties of cereals and pulses are used in culinary.
Similarly fats and oils and sugar and fruits and vegetables also form a major part of
our diet. They all are considered to be the backbone of cookery. In-fact they all are
considered as the primary food for humans. Their various types and varieties add
different flavours to our diet and numerous dishes are found in the world.
Milk is a vital component used as food today all over the world. Its consumption
occurs in everyday life in different forms be it liquid, cheese, curd or butter form or as
many other. This has led in the growth of dairy farms extensively across the world.
Rich in all the vital nutrients, it has become the universal food of all class. For easy
procurement of milk especial variety of animals are being reared and they are fed
likewise. It has been observed that more than 80% of the people all over the world
take milk in any form.
3.13 Glossary
Pasteurization- Pasteurization is used to kill harmful microorganisms by heating the
milk for a short time and then cooling it for storage and transportation.
Flash process- In this milk is heated to 71.1oC (161o F) and then subsequently held for
15 seconds and then it is rapidly cooled below 48oC (50o F).
Hold process: In this the milk is heated to 63-65o C (145-150o F) and then maintain
this temperature for 30 minutes and then cooled down immediately to 48o C (50oF)
Batti- meaning ―rock‘ has 50% moisture by weight. It is very hard and is grated to
use.
UNIT: 4
STOCKS, SAUCES, SOUPS AND SALADS
Structure
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Objectives
4.3 Stock
4.4 Sauces
4.5 Soup
4.6 Salads
4.6.1 Ingredients of Salad
4.6.2 Salad Dressings
4.6.3 The Structure of a Salad
4.6.4 Types of Salads
4.7 Garnish
4.8 Summary
4.9 Key Terms
4.10 References/Bibliography
4.11 Review Questions
4.1 Introduction
The French word for stock is fond, meaning "foundation" or "base." In classical
cuisine, the ability to prepare good stocks is the most basic of all skills because so
much of the work of the entire kitchen depends on them. A good stock is the
foundation of soups, sauces, and most braised foods and stews. Nevertheless, the finest
cuisine still depends on soups and sauces based on high-quality stocks, so stock-
making remains an essential skill you should learn early in your training. Stocks and
sauces are almost never served by themselves but are components of many other
preparations. You will need to refer to this chapter in connection with many other
subjects. Like stocks, sauces have lost some of the importance they once had in
commercial kitchens except, of course, in the best restaurants serving what may be
considered luxury cuisine. Some of this decline is due to changes in eating habits and
to increased labor costs. No matter where you work, sauce-making techniques are
basic skills you will need in all your cooking. Croquettes, soufflés, and mousses have
sauces as their base, nearly all braised foods are served with sauces made of their
cooking liquids, and basic pan gravies, favourites everywhere, are made with the same
techniques as the classic sauces.
There is no doubt that in the past ten years or so the availability and service of all
kinds of salads in every type of catering establishment has gained a now long overdue
importance. Modern catering, with an emphasis on healthier eating and the desire for
lighter, more balanced meals, has made the service of salads at all meal times very
popular. Particularly in the early part of the year, when most fresh vegetables are not
yet available or very expensive, many types of salads could and should take the place
of vegetables as an accompaniment to all types of hot and cold dish. It would be
ridiculous to serve frozen vegetables at that time of the year when fresh salads could
take their place, often at a fraction of the cost. The variety of salads available almost
all the year round is considerable. If we then vary their dressings and presentations we
can satisfy the taste of most of our guests without much repetition.
4.2 Objectives
After reading this unit learner will be able to:
• Understand meaning ,definition, types and method of preparation of stock
• Understand meaning ,definition, types and method of preparation of sauce
• Understand meaning ,definition, types and method of preparation of soup
• Understand meaning and definition types and method of preparation of salad
4.3 Stock
The preparation of stocks has been simplified in many ways since the days of
Escoffier, although this does not mean it demands less care or skill. Few chefs today
bother to tie vegetables for a stock into a bundle, for example. They're going to be
strained out anyway. The number and variety of ingredients is usually not as great as it
once was. Nor is it common to cook stocks for as many hours as was once thought
necessary. All these details are taken up one by one in this section.
Stock is a liquid containing some of the soluble nutrients and flavours of the food
which are extracted by prolonged and gentle simmering (Exception is Fish Stock
which only requires 20 Min.). A stock may be defined as, ―a clear, thin-that is,
unthickened-liquid flavoured by soluble substances extracted from meat, poultry, and
fish, and their bones, and from vegetables and seasonings‖.
4.3.4 Glaze
Glazes are made by steady boiling white or brown stock and allowing them to reduce
to a sticky or gelatinous consistency.
4.4 Sauces
Sauce works like a seasoning. It enhances and accents the flavour of the food; it
should not dominate or hide the food. A good cook knows that sauces are as valuable
as salt and pepper. A simple grilled steak is made even better when it has an added
touch, something as simple as a slice of seasoned butter melting on it or as refined as a
spoonful of béarnaise sauce. No matter where you work, sauce-making techniques are
basic skills you will need in all your cooking. Croquettes, soufflés, and mousses have
sauces as their base, nearly all braised foods are served with sauces made of their
cooking liquids, and basic pan gravies, favourites everywhere, are made with the same
techniques as the classic sauces. Sauce is defined as under:
“Sauce is a liquid, having smooth and glossy appearance, definite in taste
and light in texture; thickening is done in moderation”.
ROUX: A roux is a combination of Fat and Flour which are cooked together. Roux is
of type:
1. White roux
2. Blond roux
3. Brown roux
STARCH: Starch such as corn flour, arrowroot, potato starch etc. are used to thicken
sauce or gravy.
EGG YOLK: Egg yolk is used in emulsified sauces such as mayonnaise, hollandaise
and custard sauces.
BÉCHAMEL SAUCE
A white sauce prepared by adding milk to roux. This sauce is widely used for egg,
vegetables and gratin dishes. It can be kept warm in bain-marie and used to prepare
other derivatives
Ingredients Quantity
Margarine / oil / Butter 100Gms.
Flour 100Gms
Milk 1000 Ml.
Studded onion 1 Nos
METHOD
1. Met fat in thick bottom pan.
2. Add flour and mix well.
3. Cook for few minutes over a gentle heat with out coloring.
4. Remove from heat and cool the roux.
5. Gradually add the warm milk and stir till smooth.
6. Add onion studded with clove and allow simmering for 30 Min. remove from
heat and take out onion and strain.
7. Cover with thin film of butter to prevent skin formation.
DERIVATIVES OF BÉCHAMEL
SAUCE VELOUTÉ
A sauce prepared from white stock and blond roux. It can be kept warm in bain-marie
and used to prepare other derivatives.
Ingredients Quantity
Margarine / oil / Butter 100Gms.
Flour 100Gms
Stock 1000 Ml.
METHOD
1. Melt fat in thick bottom pan.
2. Add flour and mix well.
3. Cook to a sandy texture over a gentle heat with out coloring.
4. Remove from heat and cool the roux.
5. Gradually add the boiling stock and stir till smooth.
6. Allow to simmer for approximately 1Hrs.
7. Remove from heat and strain
DERIVATIVES OF VELOUTÉ
CHICKEN VELOUTÉ
MEAT/FISH VELOUTE
Normande Fish velouté + mushrooms + oyster liquor Fish & Shell Fish
+fish fumet finished with egg yolk cream
+ shelled shrimp tails + shrimp butter
ESPAGNOLE SAUCE
A sauces made by adding brown stock to brown roux and mirepoix and tomato puree.
Ingredients Quantity
Margarine / oil / Butter 50 Gms.
Flour 60 Gms.
Brown Stock 1000 Ml.
Tomatos puree 25 Gms.
Carrot 100 Gms.
Onion 100 Gms.
Celery 50 Gms.
METHOD
1. Met fat in thick bottom pan.
2. Add flour and mix well to a light brown colour, stirring frequently.
3. Cool and mix the tomato puree. Gradually add the boiling stock and bring to
boil.
4. Wash, peal and roughly cut the vegetables and brown lightly, drain extra fat
and add to sauce.
DERIVATIVES OF ESPAGNOLE
TOMATO SAUCE
A sauce made by cooking tomatoes with bacon, carrots, chopped onion and garlic in
stock and passed through sieve.
Ingredients Quantity
Margarine / oil / Butter 10 Gms.
Flour 10 Gms.
Stock 375 Ml.
Tomatos puree 50 Gms.
Carrot 50 Gms.
Onion 50Gms.
Celery 25 Gms
Bacon strips 10 Gms.
Bay leaf, Thyme, clove, garlic, salt & Pepper
METHOD
1. Met fat in thick bottom pan.
2. Add the herbs and mirepoix and Bacon scrap brown lightly.
3. Mix the flour and cook to sandy texture and colour slightly.
4. Mix tomato puree and allow cooling.
5. Gradually add boiling stock.
6. Stir and add garlic, seasoning and simmer for 1 Hrs.
7. Correct the seasoning and cool. Pass through strainer.
Portugaise Tomato sauce + White wine + garlic + Egg, Fish, Shell Fish
concussed tomato
Provencale Thin Tomato sauce + sauteed sliced With cold Meat, Fish
mushroom + chopped Parsley, Garlic, and Poultry
Tomato Concasse + Sugar
HOLLANDAISE SAUCE
A hot emulsified sauce made from egg yolk and clarified butter.
Ingredients Quantity
Butter 200 Gms.
Egg yolk 200 Gms.
Crushed Pepper Corn 2 Nos.
Vinegar 15 Ml.
Lemon juice ½
METHOD
1. Melt butter in a pan.
2. Place crushed peeper corn and Vinegar and reduce.
3. Add little water to cool.
4. Add egg yolk and whisk.
5. Place the pan in a double boiler and whisk the egg yolk till it gets cooked.
6. Gradually add the melted butter until it blends and forma a thick sauce.
7. Add lemon juice.
8. Strain and correct the seasonings.
DERIVATIVES OF HOLLANDAISE
SAUCE MAYONNAISE
A cold emulsified sauce consisting of egg yolks and oil blended together and
flavoured with vinegar, salt, pepper and mustard.
Ingredients Quantity
Salad oil 1000 Ml.
Egg yolk 8 Eggs
Mustard ¼ table spoon
Vinegar 25 Ml.
Lemon 1 Nos.
Seasonings to taste
METHOD
1. Place the egg yolk, vinegar & seasonings in a clean bowl.
2. Whisk well.
3. Slowly add oil and whisk continuously until all oil is incorporated.
4. Finnish it by adding juice of lemon and warm water.
DERIVATIVES OF MAYONNAISE
Green Mayonnaise sauce mixed with puree of Cold fish & shellfish
Sauce blanched herbs, spinach, water parsley,
chervil, tarragon. Pass through very fine
sieve
Vincent Equal quantity of Tartare & Green Sauce Cold fish &
Shellfish
4.5 Soup
Soup, according to the dictionary, is a liquid food derived from meat, poultry, fish, or
vegetables. This definition is all right as far as it goes, but there's a lot it doesn't tell us.
Is a stock, straight from the stockpot, a soup? Is beef stew liquid enough to be called a
soup? We're interested more in production techniques than in definitions. However, a
few more definitions are necessary before we can go into the kitchen, so we can talk to
each other in the same language. Definitions aren't rules, so don't be alarmed if you
hear other books or chefs use these terms differently. What matters is that you learn
the techniques and are able to adapt them to many uses. "Soup is a liquid food
prepared by extracting nutrients from solid food like Meat, Beef, Poultry, and
Game etc in a liquid medium".
• Soups are regarded as appetizers.
• Soups are served as first course of meal.
4.5.1 Classification
Soups are classified as under:
1. Thin
2. Thick
3. Cold
4. National & International
Consomme: Consommé is a clear soup prepared from Meat, Beef, Poultry or Game
stock, garnished with variety of ingredients; Name of consommé depends upon the
garnish. E.g. consommé julienne
o Consommé should be sparkling, clean and well flavoured.
o Consommé may be served hot or cold.
Ingredients Quantity
Minced Meat 225 Grams
Onion 70 Grams
Carrot 50 Grams
Turnip 30 Grams
Stock 1500
Egg white 2 Nos.
Celery 40 Grams
Thyme ¼ TSP
Bay leaf ½ Nos.
Pepper corn 3 Nos.
Method:
1. Mix minced meat with chopped Onion, Carrot, Turnip, Celery and mix well
with egg white.
2. Add cold stock and Thyme, Bay leaf and Pepper corn in it.
3. Place on fire and keep stirring to keep food particle suspended.
4. Bring it to boil and simmer for 1½ Hrs.
5. Strain through double muslin cloth.
Examples
Consomme Alexandra: Chicken consommé thickened with Tapioca and garnished
with Juliennes of Chicken, Quenelles and shredded lettuce.
Consomme Andalouse: Consommé blended with Tomato puree and garnished with
dices of Royale and dices of tomato, juliennes of ham, boiled rice and vermicelli and
threaded eggs.
UN PASSED SOUPS
Thin soups which are not passed through sieve after preparation and served with solids
are known as un passed soups. Un passed soups are of following two types:
1. Broth
2. Bouillon
Broth: Broth is prepared by cooking good quality of stock along with diced Meat,
Vegetables and Rice or Barley; and served with solids. Thickening agents such as Rice
or Barley or Macaroni etc. are put at the beginning of preparation.
Bouillon: Bouillons are strong Meaty flavoured, clear soup with pieces of vegetables,
Meat, Seafood etc. floating in the soup. It is a clear soup served un passed.
2. THICK SOUPS
These are passed thick soup; thickening is done by using some thickening agent such
as Starch, Puree etc. they are of following six types:
1. Puree
2. Cream
3. Velouté
4. Chowder
5. Bisque
6. Coulis
Puree: Soups thicken by its main ingredients (E.g. Leguminous plants, Potato or
Cereals) and passed through sieve. Consistency of such soups should resembles to
cream. These soups are served with Croûtons. E.g. Puree de lentils, Puree de haricot
blance, Puree Parmount, Puree de tomato, Puree de pois faris
Veloute: A thick soup made from white stock & roux finished with liaison (mixture
for thicker) of egg yolk & cream. E.g. Veloute Indinne, Veloute princesse, Veloute
celeries
Chowder: A thick soup of American origin prepared from Potatoes, Onion, pieces of
bacon, seasonings and seafood. Crackers are added just before service. E.g. Praum
chowder, Vegetable Chowder, Oyester Chowder, Pork Chowder etc.
Bisques: These are thickened fish soups generally made from shellfish puree and
thickened with rice or cream. Diced fish is served in it. E.g. Crayfish Bisque, Lobster
bisque etc.
3. COLD SOUPS
Cold soups are thickened by natural gelatin present in ingredients or by adding starch
or puree. They are served cold. Eg. Vichyssoise, Velaille Napolitaine, Veloute de
velaille froid, Gelee de velaill aux tomato
4. INTERNATIONAL SOUPS
There are varieties of cold / hot, thick / thin soups placed in this special category,
because of their origin. There are some soups originated in a certain locality and are
associated with a particular place. Most of these are un-passed one.
Eg. Soup Country
Minestrone Italy
Green Turtle Soup England
French Onion Soup France
Scotch Broth Scotland
Mulligatawny India
Gazpacho Spain
Manhattan Calm Chowder America
Camaro Brazil
Paprika Hungary
4.6 SALADS
According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, „any of various usually cold dishes: such
as raw greens (such as lettuce) often combined with other vegetables and toppings and
served especially with dressing, or small pieces of food (such as pasta, meat, fruit, or
vegetables) usually mixed with a dressing (such as mayonnaise) or set in gelatin is
known as salad. According to The new la Larousse Gastronomique, ‗salad are the
dishes made up of herbs, plants, vegetables, eggs, meat and fish, seasoned with oil,
vinegar, salt and pepper, with or without other ingredients. According to oxford living
dictionary, ‗Salad is a cold dish of various mixtures of raw or cooked vegetables,
usually seasoned with oil, vinegar, or other dressing and sometimes accompanied by
meat, fish, or other ingredients‘.
Following these lists are detailed descriptions of two groups of food that have not been
covered in previous chapters and belong especially in the pantry: salad greens and
fresh fruits.
Protein Foods: Meats (beef, ham), Bacon, Poultry (chicken, turkey), Eggs, hard-
cooked, Fish and shellfish- tuna, crab, Cheese, cottage shrimp, lobster, salmon,
sardines, anchovies, herring, Cheese-aged or cured types any fresh cooked fish),
Salami, prosciutto, luncheon meats, etc.
Miscellaneous: Gelatin (plain or flavored), Nuts, Lettuce and Other Salad Greens
A number of dressings have as their main ingredient such products as sour cream,
yogurt, and fruit juices. Many of these are designed specifically for fruit salads or for
low calorie diets. A good salad needs a good dressing to bring out the best flavour, and
in the list below we find one or more suitable to any salad we care to produce. To help
with this, we differentiate between four basic dressings types, with many variations on
the basic theme.
These four are:
Vinaigrette and its variation
Type of Oil Used in Salad Dressings: Corn oil is widely used in dressings. It has a
light golden color and is nearly tasteless, except for a mild cornmeal-type flavor.
Cottonseed oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and safflower oil are bland, nearly tasteless
oils. Vegetable oil or salad oil is a blend of oils and is popular because of its neutral
flavor and relatively low cost. Peanut oil has a mild but distinctive flavor and may be
used in appropriate dressings. It is somewhat more expensive. Olive oil has a
distinctive, fruity flavor and aroma and a greenish color. The best olive oils are called
virgin or extra-virgin, which means they are made from the first pressing of the olives.
Because of its flavor, olive oil is not an all-purpose oil but may be used in specialty
salads such as Caesar salad. Walnut oil has a distinctive flavor and a high price. It is
occasionally used in fine restaurants featuring specialty salads. Other nut and seed oils,
such as hazelnut oil and grapeseed oil, are sometimes used.
Type of Vinegar Used in Salad Dressings: Cider vinegar is made from apples. It is
brown in color and has a slightly sweet apple taste. White or distilled vinegar is
distilled and purified so that it has a neutral flavor. Wine vinegar may be white or red,
and it has, naturally, a winy flavor. Flavored vinegars have had another product
added to them, such as tarragon, garlic, or raspberries. Sherry vinegar is made from
sherry wine and, consequently, has the distinctive flavour of that wine. Balsamic
vinegar is a special wine vinegar aged in wooden barrels (see sidebar). It is dark
brown in color and has a noticeably sweet taste. Other specialty vinegars include malt
vinegar, rice vinegar, and vinegars flavored with fruits.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice may be used in place of or in addition to vinegar in
some preparations, when its flavor is desired.
Egg Yolk: Egg yolk is an essential ingredient in mayonnaise and other emulsified
dressings. For safety, pasteurized eggs should be used (see pp. 814 and Appendix 5, p.
1058), and the finished product should be refrigerated to guard against spoilage.
Seasonings and Flavorings: Nearly any herb or spice can be used in salad dressings.
Fresh herbs are preferable to dried herbs as flavorings, especially when the dressings
are used for simple, light mixed green salads. Remember that dried herbs and spices
need extra time to release their flavors if they are not heated in the product. This is
why most dressings are best made at least two or three hours before serving. Review
Chapter 4 to refresh your memory on the use of herbs and spices. Other ingredients
added for flavoring include mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and cheeses. A
note on blue cheese and Roquefort cheese: Many restaurants sell ―Roquefort dressing‖
that is actually blue cheese dressing. Roquefort is a brand name for a special kind of
Emulsions in Salad Dressings: As you know, oil and water do not normally stay
mixed but separate into layers. Salad dressings, however, must be evenly mixed for
proper service, even though they are made primarily of oil and vinegar. A uniform
mixture of two unmixable liquids is called an emulsion. One liquid is said to be in
suspension in the other.
Base / Underliner: Scoop of potato, fancy cut vegetables like carrot, onion, cucumber
etc. looks bare when served by itself on a salad plate as a side dish. Placing it on a bed
of lettuce leaves or on shredded leaf of cabbage make it more appealing and also
emphasizes its identity as a salad. Although most tossed green salads and many
composed salads are presented without base, bound salads and some other vegetable
salads may be more attractive and appetizing when served on a bed of leafy greens.
Cup-shaped leaves of iceberg or Boston lettuce make attractive bases. They give
height to salads and help confine loose pieces of food. A layer of loose, flat leaves
(such as romaine, loose-leaf, or chicory) or of shredded lettuce may be used as a base.
This kind of base involves less labor and food cost, as it is not necessary to separate
whole cup-shaped leaves from a head.
Dressing: Dressing is a seasoned liquid or semiliquid added to the body of the salad
for flavor, tartness, spiciness, and moistness. The dressing should harmonize with the
salad ingredients. In general, use tart dressings for green salads and vegetable salads
and use slightly sweetened dressings for fruit salads. Soft, delicate greens like Boston
or Bibb lettuce require a light dressing. A thick, heavy dressing will turn them to
mush.
Dressings may be added at service time (as for green salads), served separately for the
customer to add, or mixed with the ingredients ahead of time (as in potato salad, tuna
salad, egg salad, and so on). A salad mixed with a heavy dressing, like mayonnaise, to
hold it together is called a bound salad. Remember: Dressing is a seasoning for the
main ingredients. It should accent their flavor, not overpower or drown them.
Keep the salad off the rim of the plate: Think of the rim as a picture frame and
arrange the salad within this frame. Select the right plate for the portion size, not too
large or too small.
Strive for a good balance of colors: Plain iceberg lettuce looks pale and sickly all by
itself, but it can be enlivened by mixing in darker greens and perhaps a few shreds of
carrot, red cabbage, or other colored vegetable. On the other hand, don‘t go overboard.
Sometimes just a few shades of green creates a beautiful effect. Too many colors may
look messy.
Height helps make a salad attractive: Ingredients mounded on the plate are more
interesting than if they are spread flat. Lettuce cups as bases add height. Often just a
little height is enough. Arrange ingredients like fruit wedges or tomato slices so they
overlap or lean against each other rather than lie flat on the plate.
Cut ingredients neatly: Ragged or sloppy cutting makes the whole salad look sloppy
and haphazard.
As they appear in menu: On the basis of appearing in various courses salad may be
classified in to following categories:
Appetizer salad
Accompaniment Salads
Main-Course Salads
Dessert Salads
Appetizer Salads: Now a days many establishments serve salads as a first course,
often as a substitute for a more elaborate first course. In addition, more elaborate
composed salads are popular as appetizers in many elegant restaurants. These often
consist of a poultry, meat, or fish item, plus a variety of vegetables and garnishes,
attractively arranged on a bed of greens. An Appetizer salads should stimulate the
appetite. This means they must have fresh, crisp ingredients; a tangy, flavorful
dressing; and an attractive, appetizing appearance.
Accompaniment Salads: Salads can also be served with the main course. They serve
the same function as other side dishes (vegetables and starches). Accompaniment
salads must balance and harmonize with the rest of the meal, like any other side dish.
For example, don‘t serve potato salad at the same meal at which you are serving
French fries or another starch. Vegetable salads are often good choices. Heavier
salads, such as macaroni or high-protein salads containing meat, seafood, cheese, and
so on, are less appropriate, unless the main course is light.
Main-Course Salads: Cold salad plates have become popular on luncheon menus,
especially among nutrition- and diet-conscious diners. The appeal of these salads is in
variety and freshness of ingredients Main-course salads should be large enough to
serve as a full meal and should contain a substantial portion of protein. Meat, poultry,
and seafood salads, as well as egg salad and cheese, are popular choices.
Dessert Salads: Dessert salads are usually sweet and may contain items such as fruits,
sweetened gelatin, nuts, and cream. They are often too sweet to be served as appetizers
or accompaniments and are best served as dessert or as part of a buffet or party menu.
Leaf Salads: A leaf salad or garden salad is most often composed of leafy
vegetables such as lettuce varieties, spinach etc. The salad leaves may be cut or torn
into bite-sized fragments and tossed together (called a tossed salad), or may be placed
in a predetermined arrangement (a composed salad). They are often adorned with
garnishes such as nuts or croutons.
Examples:
SINGLE GREEN SALAD: As the name suggests it contains only one type of leaf.
Yet, a bowl of just green leaves with a suitable dressing is ideal for say a grilled steak
or fillet of fish, or indeed roast poultry of all types.
MIXED GREEN SALAD : If we think a single green salad is too simple, we may go
up one step and serve a mixed green salad, that is to say a mixture of any green leaves
available such as Batavian, Lambs Lettuce, Rocket, Endive Frisés or whatever is
available in the range of green.
Tarragon Salad: Any green leaves with the addition of freshly chopped
tarragon leaves sprinkled on the top plus vinaigrette. Served as a side salad
with roast and grilled meats, poultry and fish.
Mimosa Salad: Green leaves with the sieved hard-boiled egg yolk sprinkled
on top to give the appearance of the Mimosa blossom. Served as a side salad
with roast and grilled meats, poultry and fish.
Orange Salad: Green lettuce leaves with the addition of orange segments and
blanched orange peel cut julienne sprinkled on the top. Served as a side salad
with roast meats, poultry and game, particularly roast duck and saddle of
venison.
New Orleans Salad: Sliced raw button mushrooms on young spinach leaves,
dressed with strong garlic dressing. Served as a side salad with roast meats,
poultry and grilled steaks and fish of all types.
The single Vegetable salads, sometimes also called in French the simple salads, are
produced from vegetables or fruits rather than from leaves, although some of the latter
are often used as a base decoration. Single salads may have small additions/garnish,
such as lettuce leaves, onion rings, chopped or sprigs of herbs, to give flavour and help
presentation. They fall into two groups:
Single raw salads: Such as cucumber, radish, tomato etc.
Single cooked salads: Which are cooked or blanched before dressing, such as
asparagus, beetroot, celeriac, French beans, potato and pulses, pasta salads etc.
COMPOUND SALADS: Our third basic group of salads are the compound salads
made from a combination of foods such as fruit, vegetables, fish, shellfish, poultry and
meats, of which one ingredient should dominate, sometimes giving the salad its name.
For a better understanding when best to serve a given compound salad, they are
grouped in the recipes below according to the main base ingredient of their
preparation, i.e.:
Fruit-based
Vegetable-based
Fish-based
Poultry-based
Meat-based.
All are marinated in light vinaigrette and thereafter bound with acidulated cream, sour
cream, mayonnaise or one of its variations, or, of late, crème fraîche. In Britain these
types of salads were until quite recently much underused, only a few such as Waldorf
Salad being really well known. On the Continent of Europe and in America they are
very popular and found in daily use in all types of catering establishments, served as:
A single hors d‘oeuvre
Part of a mixed hors d‘oeuvre
A side salad in place of vegetables (vegetable- and fruit-based only)
Part of a mixed salad
Part of a cold buffet.
The preparation of compound salads, as well as the ingredients used, varies
considerably from one compound salad to another. Again, only the best materials
should be used, well washed, clean and dry. Their preparation, particularly the cutting
4.7 Garnish
To many people, the word garnish means a sprig of parsley haphazardly placed on the
plate. Just as common is the practice in some restaurants of adopting a single garnish
and using it routinely on every plate, from prime rib to batter-fried shrimp. No one
garnish is appropriate for every plate, just as no one side dish is appropriate for every
plate. In fact, the term garnish has been used for a great variety of preparations and
techniques in the history of classical and modern cuisines. Today, the use of parsley
sprigs on every plate has become rare, and we are again using the word garnish in a
more traditional way.
Classical Garnish
In classical cooking, the terms garnish and garniture have been used the way we use
the term accompaniments. In other words, garnishes are any items placed on the
platter or plate or in the soup bowl in addition to the main item. It happens that these
accompaniments also make the food look more attractive, but that is not the emphasis.
The classical French chef had a tremendous repertoire of simple and elaborate
garnishes, and they all had specific names. A trained chef, or a well-informed diner,
for that matter, knew the word Rachel on the menu meant the dish was served with
artichoke bottoms filled with poached marrow, and Portugaise meant a garnish of
stuffed tomatoes.
There were so many of these names, however, that no one could remember them all.
So they were catalogued in handbooks to be used by chefs. Le Répertoire de la
Cuisine, first published in 1914 and one of these handbooks has 209 listings in the
garnish section alone, not to mention nearly 7,000 other preparations, all with their
own names. The garnishes may be as simple as the one called Concorde or as complex
as the one called Tortue, quoted here to give you an idea of the complexity and
elaborateness of classical garnish.
Some of the common terms used in garnish and its meaning are as under:
Clamart : peas
Crécy : carrots
Doria : cucumbers (cooked in butter)
Dubarry : cauliflower
Fermière : carrots, turnips, onions, and celery, cut into uniform slices
Florentine : spinach
Forestière : mushrooms
Judic : braised lettuce
Lyonnaise : onions
Niçoise : tomatoes concassé cooked with garlic
Parmentier : potatoes
Princesse : asparagus
Provençale : tomatoes with garlic, parsley, and, sometimes, mushrooms
and/or olives
Vichy : carrots (especially Carrots Vichy)
4.8 Summary
In this unit we lave learnt about basics of food production. The unit begin with stock-
the foundation, for various sauce, soup and gravies. Then we have discussed about the
mother or basic six sauces and their derivatives. Then the unit discusses the marinades
and garnishes.
Clamart : peas
Croutons: Dices or fancy cut bread / toast fried to golden brown color
Dubarry : cauliflower
Fermière : carrots, turnips, onions, and celery, cut into uniform slices
Florentine : spinach
Forestière : mushrooms
Lyonnaise : onions
Mimosa Salad: Green leaves with the sieved hard-boiled egg yolk sprinkled on top to
give the appearance of the Mimosa blossom. Served as a side salad with roast and
grilled meats, poultry and fish.
New Orleans Salad: Sliced raw button mushrooms on young spinach leaves, dressed
with strong garlic dressing. Served as a side salad with roast meats, poultry and grilled
steaks and fish of all types.
Orange Salad: Green lettuce leaves with the addition of orange segments and
blanched orange peel cut julienne sprinkled on the top. Served as a side salad with
roast meats, poultry and game, particularly roast duck and saddle of venison.
Parmentier : potatoes
Princesse : asparagus
Tarragon Salad: Any green leaves with the addition of freshly chopped tarragon
leaves sprinkled on the top plus vinaigrette. Served as a side salad with roast and
grilled meats, poultry and fish.
4.10 References/Bibliography
Gisslen Wayne (2010) Professional Cooking, College version, John Wiley and sons,
New York
Chakravarty B.K. (2010), Modern Professional Cookery, Aman Publications, New
Delhi,
Villella, Joseph A, (1968) The Hospitality Industry-The World of Food Service, 2nd
edition, Mcgraw-Hill, New York
True – False