What Is the Purpose of a Chef's Hat?
While there are various theories on the origin of the chef’s hat, today’s chef’s hat has evolved into an item of both function and distinction. The toque blanc--as the tall white hats are called--is considered part of the professional uniform and typically identifies the head chef from the other kitchen workers. Although the traditional toque is mostly aesthetic, chefs today still wear hats for sanitary and comfort reasons.
Other People Are Reading
-
A Brief History
-
Many believe that the tradition of the chef’s hat began back in the sixth and seventh centuries when many artisans, including chefs, took refuge from invaders in the Greek monasteries and eventually adopted the traditional garb of the monks, including the tall “toques” or hats. The famous chef Antonin Carême is typically credited with popularizing the classic tall white hats--toque blancs--during the 19th century.
Aesthetic Purposes
-
Much of the tradition of the chef’s toque has to do with aesthetics. Chefs wear uniforms to convey a professional appearance. It’s also believed that, traditionally, the height of the toque delineated the expertise of the chef--the taller the toque, the more experienced the chef. The pleats of the hat also convey expertise. Legend has it that the 100 folds in the traditional toque blanc represent the 100 ways an egg can be prepared.
-
Sanitary and Purposes
-
Sanitary considerations are a major reason why chef’s wear hats today. Hats can keep hair under wraps and help prevents stray hairs from falling into the food. The brim of the hat also absorbs sweat to keep it from dripping down the chef’s face or--worse yet--into the food.
Comfort Purposes
-
Not only do the hats help prevent hair from falling into the food, but it also keeps hair out of the chef’s face for better visibility. Some argue that the tall toque blanc also provides comfort because it allows air to circulate and heat to rise off the chef’s head.
Current Trends in Chef’s Hats
-
In modern times, the traditional toque blanc is falling in popularity, although the importance of wearing a hat for sanitary and comfort purposes is still recognized. Today, chefs wear a variety of head coverings, including handkerchiefs, skull caps and baseball caps. Many chefs use hats as a way to express their individual style, although some restaurants may require specific attire in keeping with the tone of the establishment.
-
References
- Photo Credit cook image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
