Induction ranges have been around for a while now and are common sightings in commercial kitchens. There are dozens of 120-volt ranges on the market, ranging from “disposable” light-duty units to those offering more sophisticated features and true commercial foodservice durability. There are far fewer manufacturers offering 208-240 volt models, especially units with double “burners.” These higher voltage units offer more power and are well suited for back-of-the-house applications.
But, those differentiators aside (and the enormous range in pricing), what sets one manufacturer’s induction unit apart from another? More specifically, since you’re here, what makes Hatco Rapide Cuisine® induction ranges the best choice?
The ‘golden child’ of induction features
Yes, Hatco offers the most durable and “commercial kitchen proof” unit on the market, with the highest ambient heat tolerance, and several features to protect from grease and moisture. It has advanced software to deliver the most power (more on all that here). But from an operator’s perspective, what really sets it apart? What gets foodservice operators — the guys and gals doing the actual operating — really talking?
For that, we have to take a close look at what’s known as “preset programmability” and what that is doing for professional foodservice operators. Preset programmability is a Rapide Cuisine feature that allows operators to create and save three-stage cooking and/or holding profiles, with each stage having a temperature or power level and time associated with it. Or alternatively, it allows operators to set a desired food-doneness temperature and power level for worry- and hands-free cooking.
What’s so transformative about preset programmability?
We define “transformation” as something that results in a dramatic and noticeable change. Preset programmability, while a nice feature to have, is much more than that. It is a game-changer that provides operators with:
1. Consistent and repeatable results
The success of commercial foodservice operators, especially chains, depends on delivering consistent and predictable results. Think about some of the biggest names in the industry. They retain customers because they satisfy their customers’ ingrained expectations. People generally do not like surprises, but especially when it comes to something they are literally going to consume.
Preset programs ensure that the exact same sequence of events can occur. With three sequential stages, that can mean, for example: sear, cook, hold.
Most restaurants — and again, especially chains — have a relatively limited menu offering and cook the same few things repeatedly. Preset programmability goes several steps toward kitchen automation, a hot topic in the industry right now.
2. Food quality and reduced waste
Taking the wild factor out of the equation — meaning the scope for human error, or the temptation to crank your induction unit up to 11 (or in our case 100) — prevents overcooking and burned product, thereby reducing kitchen food waste and returns from guests. Precisely cooked food is generally better quality and will meet the operation’s “gold standard” for that dish (you know, that guideline photo on the kitchen wall).
3. Labor cost and efficiency
Preset programs are like having another pair of hands in the kitchen. While the food “cooks itself,” the cook can be doing something else like preparing or fetching the sides. Similarly, less highly skilled and therefore cheaper labor can be used for execution.
Kitchens of the future were already heading toward having less staff for a number of reasons, but now we must add the need for social distancing among staff to drive the trend faster. The times they are a-changin’ — and lower-labor solutions are no longer a nice-to-have, but are a must-have for any commercial kitchen.
Ready, set, transform.
Hatco Rapide Cuisine induction ranges come in a variety of options, from 120-volt models to high-powered 208-240 volt single and double units. Program up to six menu items on a single unit, or 12 on space-saving doubles. Go ahead! Embrace the power of preset programmability and take the first step in kitchen transformation. To learn more about Rapide Cuisine induction ranges and their transformative capabilities, check out our Hatco induction solutions today.
