Chafing fuel is what heats the dish at the buffet. If you own catering business, you are likely familiar with the fuel and understand how it works. If you’re just starting a new business or want to learn more, a helpful, short guide can get you the information you need so that you are prepared and know what to purchase.
Wick and Gel
Primarily, the only options for fuel you have are wick or gel versions. However, some companies have come up with eco-friendly products that don’t use the traditional gel or wick versions. The eco-friendly fuel is easy to use, and you just fill your eco-friendly burners and turn it on. You do still have to light the fuel with a long-handled lighter or match, but it burns cleaner than traditional gel fuels. Many wick/gel fuels are also environmentally-friendly now because consumers are focused on their health. Therefore, there aren’t likely to be odors or black smoke emanating from the burner.
How to Use It
Primarily, chafing fuel is easy to use. You fill the burner with the right amount of fuel, turn it on so that it starts heating, light the fuel, adjust the flame so that it won’t touch the bottom of the dish, and position it underneath the dish. Many people choose to purchase the burner and chafing dishes in a set so that they can have quick set-up. You can set the chafing dish/holder over the burner quickly and keep your food piping hot until it’s time to serve the guests.
Depending on the type of fuel you buy, you may not require any water pans that are filled with hot or boiling water. This cuts down on the steam, which means your food may look and taste better. When food sits around steam for extended periods after cooking, it can make the food look shriveled or otherwise unappealing.
