How to Operate a Steam Jacketed Kettle
A steam jacketed kettle is a valuable kitchen tool that is most commonly used in restaurant settings. It works differently from a basic steamer since the steam is created in a jacket surrounding a kettle. The water in the jacket warms up, which in turn creates steam. As a result, the food inside of the actual kettle is cooked by the heat of the surrounding jacket. Because the steam cannot penetrate the kettle and come in contact with the food, the flavor is not diluted. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Position the kettle in the upright position if it is a tilting kettle. Rotate the handle clockwise on the bottom of the kettle to raise it up.
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2
Check the glass water gauge on the side of the jacket. The gauge should be about half full with water. If necessary, add or drain water from the jacket according to the directions in the owner's manual of your particular kettle.
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3
Check the safety valve according to the directions for your particular kettle. Depending on your model, the valve may be in a different location. The safety valve is important as it prevents dangerous levels of pressure from building up inside the kettle.
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4
Turn on the steam valve or electric switch if you have an electric kettle. Turn on the main burner valve if you have a gas kettle. A valve that is completely open will produce a higher temperature while a partially open valve will produce a lower temperature.
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5
Lift the kettle lid and add the food. The kettle should not be more than 3/4 full with food. Close the lid.
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6
Close the valve once the food is done cooking. Wait at least 10 minutes to open the lid to avoid steam burns.
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Fill the kettle with warm water immediately after you empty the food. The warm water will prevent food from sticking to the kettle and make it easier to clean later on.
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Tips & Warnings
Follow the specific directions in the owner's manual if you are unsure about how to do something. All steam jacketed kettles have slightly different designs.