Baking trays are versatile kitchen essentials, serving a multitude of purposes, from baking cookies to roasting vegetables. To ensure your baking trays last for as long as possible, and to maintain efficiency in the kitchen, it’s important to know how to use, care for, and store them properly.
Using baking trays effectively
Baking trays, often referred to as ovenable trays, are designed to handle a range of tasks beyond baking. They can be used for roasting meats, broiling dishes, and even freezing foods. For best results, select the appropriate type of tray for the task. For example, non-stick trays are ideal for delicate items like biscuits, while aluminium trays provide even heating for roasting.
It’s worth noting that baking trays may warp in high temperatures due to thermal expansion. Thicker, commercial-grade options, such as the ones shown at www.southerncrosspackaging.com/ovenable-trays, can help minimise this effect, ensuring consistent results over time.
Storing baking trays efficiently
Proper storage not only protects your baking trays but also maximises space in your kitchen. Vertical dividers in a cupboard are a practical solution, allowing trays to be slid in and out easily. Alternatively, over-the-door racks or pegboards can keep trays organised and within reach, especially in smaller kitchens.
To prevent scratching or warping during storage, avoid stacking trays directly on top of one another without a protective layer. Silicone mats or tea towels can act as a buffer between trays. The BBC Good Food Guide offers some great tips on maintaining a functional kitchen, where to put things, and how to store them.
Maintenance tips to extend tray lifespan
While some trays are dishwasher-safe, hand washing with warm water and mild soap is generally recommended to preserve the finish on these trays. Non-stick coatings, in particular, can degrade in a dishwasher over time. Regular maintenance and proper care will keep your baking trays performing optimally for years to come.
By choosing the right trays, handling them correctly, and storing them efficiently, you can ensure your baking trays last and remain reliable tools in your culinary endeavours.
