Aluminum chafing pans(like at the party supply stores)- good for keeping appetizers warm (Chicken & eggrolls)?!
Answers: Planning a Halloween party and wanted to keep finger foods warm. I haven't tried the chafing pans- the cheaper ones at the party stores that go for about $10-$20, with the canned fuel. Any input would be greatly appreciated!!
I've used them several times for parties. The fuel lasts about 4-5 hours. The ones I used had a bottom pan with hot water in it and the food pan fits over top. That way the food is not directly over the heat source. The food can start to burn after a while,so check to see if you should stir or turn every hour or so. I bought extra top pans and baked the casserole type foods separate so I could throw away a used pan and just pop in a fresh batch. Hope that helps. You can save the frames and water pans and use the chafers again. Just replace the food pans and sterno pots.
They work very well for keeping food hot.
But only food that has a sauce or liquid in it.
Chicken in sauce...great
eggrolls.... not good.
I am a caterer and we use them all the time. They are best for foods that are "wet", but fried or baked foods will stay hot for a little while before getting soggy. Best to make in small batches and replenish often.