Category

Staples

Jun 28 2024
34

Transform Your Catering Presentation with Belix: Tips and Tools

By | Catering, Chef's Feed, Paper / To-Go, Staples

As a chef, you know that presentation can be just as important as flavor. Catering success often hinges on how well your dishes are presented. Whether it’s a casual happy hour or a sophisticated wedding reception, the right look can wow your guests and make your dishes even more unforgettable. Using stylish and practical presentation items can set your events apart.

Here are a few quick tips for catering presentation success:

Familiar Foods, New Presentations: Mini appetizers are a fun way to serve food, and guests love seeing familiar dishes in bite-sized portions. These manageable portions allow people to enjoy their food while easily carrying on conversations. Our small cubes and slanted cups are perfect for displaying miniature versions of your favorite dishes.

Serve It on a Stick: Skewers & picks are a fantastic way to present food. From fruit and desserts to hors d’oeuvres like mini Caprese kebobs, serving food on a stick adds a playful and practical element to your presentation.

Keep It Easy to Eat: Ensure your food is easy to eat without making a mess. Serving dishes in ways that prevent spills and drips will keep your guests’ fingers, clothes, and faces clean. Think tasting spoons or pinewood cones to keep it all contained.

Now, let’s explore how you can use some of our favorite catering items to impress your guests at every occasion.

Just a Taste

Bamboo Pick with Loop 4″ – item #90137

These 4″ bamboo knot food picks are essential for any event. They’re not just functional; they’re an eco-friendly choice that adds a touch of elegance to your presentations. Ideal for hors d’oeuvres or martini bars, these picks are perfect for skewering anything from cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls to cocktail olives and cheese cubes. Picture a tray of vibrant Caprese skewers or a martini bar with olives and twists, each stylishly held by these bamboo picks.

Asian Spoon 5″ – item #99640

These 5″ Asian spoons from Belix are a fantastic choice for serving small bites with sophistication. Made from high-quality clear plastic, they have the look of glass and the durability you need for busy events. Use them to serve items like seared scallops with a dab of citrus sauce or tiny portions of tuna tartare. Their deep spoon bowls can hold a bit of sauce, enhancing the flavor experience for your guests while staying mess-free.

Fork – Corn Resin 4.2″ – item #99628

These petite forks are made from corn resin, making them biodegradable and a great choice for environmentally friendly events. They are perfect for serving small bites such as mini meatballs, cheese samples, or tiny desserts like brownie bites. The sturdy construction ensures they can handle a variety of foods without breaking or bending.

Spoon Clear 4.2″- item #99638

The clear plastic petite taster spoons from Belix are perfect for sampling and tasting events. Use these spoons to offer samples of soups, sauces, or small bites like caviar with crème fraîche. Their clear design ensures that the focus remains on the food, making them ideal for showcasing colorful ingredients.

Pinewood Presentation

Pinewood Cone 7.1″ – item #98110

Belix’s pinewood cones are made from sustainable materials, making them perfect for eco-conscious events. These cones are versatile and can be used for canapés, appetizers, sides, or desserts. Imagine serving crispy tempura shrimp or a selection of artisanal cheeses and dried fruits in these natural, biodegradable cones. Their rustic look pairs beautifully with outdoor or nature-themed events.

Pinewood Boats –

item #98109 (2.8×2), item #98090 (4.5×2.6), item #98359 (6.7×3.3), item #98178 (8.7×4.1)

Belix’s pinewood boats are elegant, multi-purpose serving dishes that can make a statement at any event. Available in various sizes, these boats can be used for appetizers, sides, or even as unique dessert displays. Think of serving sushi rolls, antipasto assortments, or fruit salads in these natural wood boats. Their aesthetic appeal and functionality make them a hit at both casual and formal gatherings.

Modern Elegance

These items are made from polypropylene, a durable and versatile material that makes them an excellent choice for catering events. Polypropylene is known for its high resistance to chemicals, heat, and impact, ensuring that these cups can handle a variety of foods and settings without losing their integrity. Additionally, polypropylene is lightweight and easy to handle, making it convenient for both the server and the guest.

Bowl – Square Slanted 2.7oz – item #98079

The frosted translucent square slanted bowls from Belix are both reusable and recyclable, making them a sustainable choice for any event. These bowls are perfect for serving individual portions of salads, desserts, or appetizers. Imagine a delightful shrimp ceviche or a rich chocolate mousse served in these sleek, modern bowls. Their unique slanted design not only adds visual appeal but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy every bite.

Rectangle Cube – item #02952

The petite rectangle cubes from Belix are ideal for presenting a variety of small dishes. Their compact size and sleek design make them perfect for serving amuse-bouches, mini desserts, or savory bites. Use them to serve items like goat cheese and fig jam on toast points or mini tiramisu. These cubes add a touch of modern elegance to your food displays.

Slanted Cup 2.2oz – item #98080

Square Slanted Cup – item #98106

These slanted cups are made from recyclable materials and are designed to enhance the presentation of hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Their translucent appearance gives a contemporary look to any dish and you can choose between a squared off or rounded look. Perfect for serving small portions of salads, layered desserts, or appetizers like crab salad with avocado. The slanted design allows for easy access to every delicious layer. Imagine serving a refreshing gazpacho or a layered berry parfait in these elegant cups.

You can find these items & more at our “Love at First Bite – Catering Essentials” featured list on the app.

*All products may not be available in each region. Please check the app or reach out to your customer advocate for availability.

Apr 25 2024
33

Taste & Class: A Tradition of Quality

By | Baking, Finishing Oil, Gourmet, Mustards, Oils and Vinegars, Olive Oil, Staples, Vinegars

For chefs, the quality and source of ingredients are critical. At Taste & Class, led by Deborah Abramoff and her father Thierry Abramoff, this principle is taken seriously. As the third and fourth generations of their family running the business, they continue a long-standing tradition of excellence, providing top-of-the-line saffron, vanilla, vinegars, olives and mustards. We caught up with Thierry to hear about the company’s commitment to exceptional ingredients, its rich family heritage, and the passion behind their work.

Let’s start with your family history. How has your heritage shaped Taste & Class?

Thierry: In 1928 my grandfather left everything behind in Russia and moved to Paris. Following the move, he took his passion and curiosity around different kinds of food and opened a grocery, soon growing the business to three stores. It was a true family business and everyone was on deck, my grandfather, grandmother, and the kids.

In elementary school I grew up playing in our huge family warehouse with my grandfather and my father.  This is where my knowledge of all the products started and where this business was ingrained in me as a person.

Our business is a legacy that has been passed down through generations. Each family member who joins the business is steeped in our history, learning about the intricate details of our products from a young age, just as I did. This continuity ensures that the knowledge and passion for our products are preserved.

So you always knew you’d be a part of the family business?

Thierry: Yes, I officially joined the business in 1969. In the in the daytime, I was a warehouse man. At night, I was going to law school. And you know, after spending time around attorneys, I told my father I’d rather be an honest businessperson than an attorney.

In 1999, I moved to the United States and began to rebuild Taste & Class here. But you know, it was really rebuilding myself and becoming part of this great country, which soon became my country. So, I pledge allegiance to the flag. And I’m proud of it!

In 2006 my daughter Deborah joined the company as the 1st female generation to lead Taste & Class, and her two sisters joined her several years later.

What makes Taste & Class stand out in the industry?

Thierry: Our dedication to authenticity and quality is unparalleled. We don’t just sell products; we connect with their origins. We work with our suppliers as a team. Next week, Deborah will be traveling to Spain to ensure our saffron’s quality and sustainability firsthand. We’re not just maintaining standards; we’re actively improving them, ensuring that our chefs always receive the best.

Our products are premium quality and we have large inventory, which means there is no lead time for chefs and no product shortages.

How do you maintain the high standards of your products?

Thierry: With every order we put our reputation and your trust at stake. Every pallet is important. Every product we send out is a testament to our reputation. We painstakingly ensure that each batch meets our quality controls. This might seem excessive to some, but to us, it’s about respecting our products and our clients. We have to be very, very, very picky to ensure full satisfaction to your chefs.

Finally, any message you would like to share with the chefs who use your products?

Thierry: Each order you place with us carries our family’s legacy and commitment. We appreciate your trust and aim to continue providing products that meet your high standards. Our goal is to be part of your kitchen’s success story.

Taste & Class Premium Products

Pure Spanish Saffron

This saffron’s strong coloring and fragrance means chefs can use a smaller quantity of this Pure Spanish Saffron. Higher yield means lowers cost per unit served.

Item #97129 – .25g

Item #97113 – 1 oz tin

Saffron is the most expensive spice, often referred to as edible gold.  Why is it so expensive? Saffron is derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the saffron crocus. Each flower only produces three stigmas, which must be carefully picked by hand. It takes about 75,000 saffron crocus flowers to produce a single pound of saffron spice. There is a lot of adulterated saffron and even fake saffron on the market, so buying 100% pure saffron from a trusted source is incredibly important. 

Select Natural Greek Olives in Brine

Pitted Kalamata Olives – These olives are from the Kalamata region of Greece and are firm to medium soft/rich and fruity in flavor. 8.8 lb Item #95508 OR 8.8lb cs Item #98892

Pitted Country Mix Olives – A mix of Kalamata, Ionian green, Amfissa and Atlantic olives with spices. 8.8 lb tub Item #95503 OR 2/8.8lb cs Item #98905

Maître Pierre & Moutardier à Dijon Premium Mustards

Whole Grain Mustard – A pleasant and very sweet mustard that acquired its flavor as a result of the maceration of the whole mustard seeds in the cider vinegar. It marvelously accompanies white meats, and is also used for vinaigrettes. 7 oz jar Item #95106 / 12X7OZ CS Item #95213

11 lb tub Item #95107 / 2×11 lb cs Item #98910

Dijon Mustard – Characterized by its very high mustard seed content, this mustard assures a powerful and hot taste.7 oz jar Item #95212 / 12/7oz cs Item #95211

11 lb tub Item #95102 / 2×11 lb cs Item #98909

Gourmet Bourbon Madagascar Vanilla Products

Vanilla Beans – Whole vanilla beans  – 8 oz pk item #97128 OR  2 count item #97127

Vanilla Paste – The convenience of extract with visible vanilla seeds. Made with a bourbon base.quart – Item #90227 OR 12 qt cs item #90550

Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla extract, made with bourbon vanilla beans, ready to be added to baked goods, ice cream and any other application where the full flavor of vanilla is desired. quart Item #93209 OR 12 qt cs Item #93221

Vinegars

Taste & Class has French Clovis and Italian Antichi Colli full flavored vinegars, that masterfully enhance dishes. The higher quality of these vinegars leads to the ability to use less, therefore yielding a lower cost per unit served.

Aged Red Wine Vinegar: 7º

Produced with wines selected for their full bouquet and ruby color, the Red Wine Vinegar is aged 6 months to acquire its woody notes. Its full bouquet adds flavor to salads.

5L Item #97331 / 2/5L CS Item #97330

Raspberry Vinegar: 7º

Great Classic, adding the tannic strength of Red Wine Vinegar to the fruity sweetness of

Raspberry. This vinegar shines in seasoning of mixed salads, including fruit salads, and

deglazing calf’s livers, duck steaklets or gizzards.

2/5L Item #94128

Champagne Vinegar: 7º

The Champagne vinegar is a great Specialty of the Clovis range made with “vins de dégorgement” from Champagne wines. Its unique smoothness and its full bouquet make it an exceptional product on the market. It is appropriate for all types of seasonings, vinaigrettes and sauces.

5L JUG Item #97315 / 2/5L CS Item #98906

Tarragon Vinegar: 7º

In addition to White Wine Vinegar, a bouquet of Tarragon spreads its fragrances from Provence. It is the ideal vinegar for summer salads with tomatoes, olives or tuna. It is a perfect match with olive oil.

5L JUG Item #97302 / 2/5L CS Item #97391

White Wine Vinegar: 7º

Brilliant vinegar, very soft and fruity. It will enhance dishes of fish and seafood; Perfect to set amazing “sauces au beurre Blanc”.

5L JUG Item #97333 / 2/5L CS Item #98911

Normandy Apple Cider Vinegar: 5º

Only made from Normandy Cider. Classy vinegar to enhance chicken, pork and veal.

5L JUG Item #97379 / 2/5L CS Item #97378

Aged Sherry Vinegar: 7º

From Spanish Wines aged in oak barrels. Pairs wells with Walnut oil or Hazelnut oil for vinaigrettes.

5L JUG Item #97375 / 2X5L CS Item #97374

Red Balsamic Vinegar 6º

Boasts a subtle preference for acidity over sweetness. Ideal for salads, vinaigrette, and various dressings infusing an aromatic hit of sweetness into dishes.

2X5 LITER Item #98903 5 LITER EACH Item #97303

Antichi Colli Modena, Italy Balsamic Glazes

Fig Balsamic Glaze – Made with Balsamic vinegar of Modena PGI enriched with fig juice and Italian cooked grape must. No sugars added.12/8.25 OZ Item #23208

Truffle Balsamic Glaze – Made with Balsamic vinegar of Modena PGI and enriched with truffle aroma and Italian cooked grape must. No sugars added.12/8.45 OZ Item #23209

*All products may not be available in each region. Please check the app or reach out to your customer advocate for availability.

Mar 29 2024
30

Spring Forward: Refreshing Menu Ideas to Welcome the Season

By | Baking, Cheese, Dairy, Farm To Table, Gourmet, Local, Produce, Seafood, Staples, Vegetables, What Chefs Want

As the snow melts away and the first green shoots begin to appear, chefs everywhere know it’s time to rejuvenate their menus. Spring brings a bounty of fresh produce and new flavors, offering a fantastic opportunity to introduce vibrant, light, and refreshing dishes. This article is a springboard for those looking to infuse their menus with the essence of spring, presenting ideas and dishes that are as fresh as the season itself.

Embrace the Season’s Best

Seasonal Vegetables Front and Center

Spring is synonymous with fresh produce. Think tender greens, sweet peas, artichokes, and asparagus. These vegetables can easily become the star of any dish, offering a crisp, fresh taste that’s perfect for the season.

Grilled Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce: A simple yet sophisticated side that highlights the asparagus. Main ingredients: asparagus spears, butter, egg yolks, lemon juice, cayenne pepper.

  • Asparagus – Jumbo – item #20001, Large – item #20080, Standard – item #20005
  • Lemons – item #04019
  • Butter – unsalted – item #93001

Spring Vegetable Risotto: Creamy and comforting while still being light. Main ingredients: Arborio rice, chicken or vegetable stock, Parmesan cheese, a mix of spring vegetables (peas, asparagus, baby carrots).

  • Carrots – item #20467
  • Carrots – diced #20456 *diced in house by our Prep Kitchen team to save you time!
  • Arborio rice – item #94928
  • Parmesan cheese – grated – item #91272 (also available shaved, shredded or whole)

Pea and Mint Soup: Vibrantly green and refreshingly light. Main ingredients: fresh peas, mint leaves, vegetable stock, onion, garlic, and light cream.

  • English Peas – item #09570
  • Fresh mint leaves – item #40052
  • Roasted Vegetable stock base – item #96117

Herb-Infused Dishes

Herbs come back to life in spring, bringing their fresh aromas and flavors. Integrating a variety of herbs into your dishes can add a new dimension of taste.

Herb-Infused Grilled Pork Chops with a Spring Herb Chimichurri: This dish captures the essence of spring through the use of fresh herbs both in the marinade and in the chimichurri.  Main ingredients: bone-in porkchops, fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, cilantro, lemon juice.

  • Bone-in Berkwood Center Cut Pork Chop – item #00829
  • Parsley – item #40009
  • Garlic – peeled – #70118

Lemon Herb Chicken: Light and zesty, perfect for a spring evening. Main ingredients: chicken breasts, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic.

  • Springer Mountain Farms airline chicken breast – item #18270
  • Pons Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil – item #95413
  • Fresh Rosemary – item #40023

Light and Bright

Salads That Excite

Spring is the perfect time to revamp your salad offerings with light, yet satisfying options that incorporate fruits, nuts, and cheeses.

Strawberry Spinach Salad: A sweet and savory combination. Main ingredients: fresh spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, walnuts, balsamic vinaigrette.

  • Baby spinach – item #20280
  • Strawberries – item #10422
  • Capriole Tea Rose Goat Cheese – item #91921

Citrus and Avocado Salad: Creamy and citrusy, a delight for the taste buds. Main ingredients: mixed greens, orange segments, grapefruit segments, avocado, almonds, citrus vinaigrette.

  • Lettuce – Arcadian Mix – item #02518
  • Grapefruit – item #99835
  • Avocado – item #20063

Seafood Selections

Seafood is a great choice for spring menus, offering dishes that are both light and satisfying.

Seared Scallops with Pea Puree: Elegant and easy to prepare. Main ingredients: scallops, fresh peas, mint, butter, lemon.

  • Scallops – U/10 – item #32502
  • Scallops – U/8 – item #32713

Grilled Halibut with Mango Salsa: A tropical twist that screams spring. Main ingredients: halibut fillets, mango, red bell pepper, jalapeno, lime, cilantro.

  • Wild Alaskan Halibut – item #48052
  • Mango – item #10902
  • Jalapeno – item #20825

Farm to Table Connection

Highlighting Local Producers

Spring is an excellent time to strengthen relationships with local farmers and showcase their produce directly on your menu. Dishes that tell a story about where their ingredients come from can create a deeper connection with diners.

Local Farm Vegetable Tart: A rustic and visually appealing dish. Main ingredients: seasonal vegetables from local farms, puff pastry, ricotta cheese, fresh herbs.

  • Fresh morel mushrooms – item #30911
  • English peas – item #09570
  • Ricotta cheese – item #91094

Farmers’ Market Salad: Change weekly based on what’s available locally. Main ingredients: mixed greens, edible flowers, heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, fresh cheese, vinaigrette made with local honey.

  • Edible flowers – item #40032
  • Fava beans – item #20721
  • Heirloom cherry tomatoes – item #50901

Refreshing Beverages

Spring-Inspired Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Refreshments

Drinks can also reflect the vibrancy of spring, incorporating fresh fruits, herbs, and edible flowers to create sippable experiences that complement your dishes. A reminder that What Chefs Want has everything you need for your bar but the booze.

Cucumber Basil Gimlet: A crisp, herbaceous cocktail. Main ingredients: gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, cucumber slices, basil leaves.

  • Natalie’s Lime Juice – item #99203
  • Monin Pure Cane Syrup – item #97887
  • Cucumbers – item #20089

Strawberry-Rose Lemonade: A non-alcoholic option that’s visually stunning and delicious. Main ingredients: strawberries, rose water, lemon juice, sparkling water, sugar.

  • Rose water – item #93207
  • KY Greenhouse strawberries – item #34010
  • Mountain Valley Sparkling water – item #18096

Sweet Endings

Fruit-Forward Desserts

Spring’s arrival means the return of many beloved fruits. Desserts that showcase these fruits can provide a perfect end to any meal. WCW has the baking staples you need to create memorable desserts!

Rhubarb Crisp: Tangy and sweet, with a crumbly topping. Main ingredients: rhubarb, strawberries, sugar, flour, oats, butter.

  • Rhubarb – item #82871
  • Rolled oats – item #93426
  • Granulated sugar – item #99317

Strawberry Basil Sorbet: A sweet and herbaceous note to end on. Main ingredients: strawberries, basil, sugar, lemon juice.

  • Strawberries – item #10422
  • Fresh Basil – item #40037
  • Natalie’s Fresh Lemon Juice – item #99202

Bringing It All Together

Transitioning your menu for spring doesn’t just mean swapping out ingredients; it’s about capturing the essence of the season—fresh, light, and rejuvenating. Whether it’s by highlighting seasonal vegetables, incorporating fresh herbs, offering lighter main courses, or ending with fruit-forward desserts, there are countless ways to refresh your menu for spring. These ideas and dishes are just a starting point to inspire your creativity and help your menu bloom alongside the season. We are here and ready to offer you the freshest ingredients to help your menu shine.

Jul 21 2022
0

Item of the Day: Partanna Extra Virgin Olive Oil

By | Chef's Feed, Gourmet, Italian, Item of the Day, Oils and Vinegars, Olive Oil, Pasta, Staples, What Chefs Want

Partanna Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Acquerello – The Tastiest, The Richest, The Healthiest

Only made with ”Nocellara del Belice” olives from the province of Trapani, in Sicily. Very rich flavor profile with notes of artichokes, almonds, and a peppery finish. Filtered and low acidity level make this a very versatile oil. Can be used for finishing, dipping or cooking.


 Item 98260 – 101 oz Tin

Jul 20 2022
0

Item of the Day: Acquerello Carnaroli Aged Rice

By | Chef's Feed, Gourmet, Italian, Item of the Day, Local, Rice, Staples, What Chefs Want

Acquerello Carnaroli Aged Rice

Acquerello – The Tastiest, The Richest, The Healthiest

It’s the tastiest because it’s the only rice whitened with a helix, a gentle method which leaves the grain intact.

It’s the richest because it is aged for at least one year in refrigerated silos. Starch is more stable and flavor enhanced. 

It’s the healthiest because thanks to a patented process the rice germ is absorbed in the grains, giving them all the nutritional values of brown rice. 

 A short-grain, pearl-like Italian white rice which is high in starch. Arborio rice forms the foundation of the dish risotto.


 Item 95933 – 2.5 KG Bag

Check out this recipe! Squid Ink Risotto and Sea Urchin
Apr 19 2019
0

Item of the Day – World Centric 2 oz Souffle Cups

By | Item of the Day, Staples, What Chefs Want

World Centric

2 oz Souffle Cups

Item 99022 – 2000 ct

Yes, you can be more eco-friendly even with your 2 oz soufflé cups. World Centric soufflé cups are made with NatureWorks Ingeo which is derived from plants grown in the USA. Designed to be as light and strong as plastic, these disposables fully break down in a commercial compost facility within 2 to 4 months.  Perfect for condiments, sides, dips, salad dressings, and toppings. Matching lid available (item #99648).

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Apr 18 2019
0

Item of the Day – World Centric 32 oz Soup Container

By | Item of the Day, Staples, What Chefs Want

World Centric

32 oz Soup Container

Item 99044 – 500 ct

These handy soup containers are made with FSC certified paper and plant fibers. The lining is Natureworks Ingeo which is derived from USA-based plant fibers. Most disposable bowls on the market use petroleum derived products in their lining.  Suitable for liquids up to 220F. Matching lid available (Item #99630).

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Apr 17 2019
0

Item of the Day – World Centric 32 oz Clear Fiber Salad Bowl

By | Item of the Day, Staples, What Chefs Want

World Centric

32 oz Clear Fiber Salad Bowl

Item 99066 – 600 ct

Made from NatureWorks Ingeo PLA derived from plants grown in the USA – these clear bowls provide a functional and sustainable solution for salads. Freezer safe and also suited for foods up to 120F –breaks down in 2 to 4 months in a commercial composting facility – clear lid available (item #98095).

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